Welcome period for students grows with new First 50 program

August 14, 2024

More than 100 events are planned for Campbell students for the first 50 days of the fall semester

For years, Welcome Week at Campbell University has served as an event-filled introduction to college life for new students. A first impression before the rigors of academic work sets in.

In an effort to keep new and returning students involved in the Campbell community beyond that first week, Campbell is introducing the First 50 initiative, offering more than 100 scheduled events through the first 50 days of the fall semester. First 50 will begin with Move-In Day on Aug. 16 and end with a pet blessing event at Butler Chapel on Oct. 4 leading up to the mid-semester fall break.

In between, the First 50 will include returning traditions like the New Student Convocation and medallion ceremony and the Aug. 20 Street Fair and new soon-to-become traditions like a "Dive In Movie" in the aquatic center on Sept. 16.

"We've reached out to a lot of our campus partners - like athletics, academic services, support services, the library, counseling services, financial aid and others - and asked if they would like to support this First 50 initiative and add to our list of programming," said Karen Parkes, director of student activities for the Office of Student Life.

Parkes said she hopes the First 50 program improves first-year retention rates and builds a stronger student community in the process.

"This is a new time for them. They're away from home for the first time. We're trying to get them to do more than stay in their room," Parkes said. "They can see what Campbell has to offer and get more involved. See that Campbell is more than studying and going to class - which, of course, is important - but we also want them to join clubs, play intramurals and find their community."

FIRST 50 WEBSITE & SCHEDULE

https://www.campbell.edu/life/first-50/

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