Whether you’re looking to get a head start on the first semester or would like to immerse yourself in a fun and enriching experience in the first few weeks of the semesters, these opportunities may be for you! Take a look at our Fall 2025 New Student Experiences.
Pre-Semester Experiences
August 12th - 22nd, 2024
Monday - Thursday
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Get a head start on your college journey with the Summer Institute 2024! This eight-day dynamic program is designed to help incoming Owls excel academically and socially. You'll gain crucial academic skills and strategies, prepare for the demands of college-level courses, and build a supportive community on campus. By completing the Summer Institute, you'll strengthen your academic foundation, begin MAT-100P early, and move into your residence halls ahead of time. Plus, your ALEKS program fee will be covered (a $70 value), and you'll have the chance to win prizes. Lunches are provided. This no-cost program offers first-year students the opportunity to develop their math and writing skills through faculty-led workshops, learn and practice academic success skills, and become familiar with the services and resources provided by the Center for Academic Success and Accessibility Services. Additionally, students will participate in engaging activities such as esports challenges, vision board creation, tie-dye sessions, and an end-of-program celebration featuring an ice cream truck for a sweet send-off. Register now to start your first semester with an improved academic foundation, connect with like-minded peers, and ease your transition into the SCSU community.
For any questions, please email casas@southernct.edu or learn more.
The First-Year Student Leadership Experience (FLEX) Program is a pre-college experience that runs three consecutive days before (August 21-August 23) New Owl Welcome (NOW). The pre-college experience allows participants to meet and make connections with a diverse group of peers prior to classes beginning. Resident students will be able to move in early. FLEX will explore topics such as values, relationships, personal and professional goal setting, diversity, and much more. This program is provided at no cost to students or families.
For more information contact Talia Lent, Office of Student Involvement and Leadership Development Graduate Intern at (203) 392-5782.
This mentorship program is a four-year commitment that starts before your first year at Southern and continues until you graduate. Participants will receive academic, professional, and personal support and guidance. This program aims to help you feel more comfortable and confident, learn new skills, make new friends, and gain experiences that will boost your success after graduation. Resident students will be able to move in early. Plus, you’ll earn a $500 scholarship at the end of each semester, rewarding your hard work and dedication!
In-Semester Experiences
Attention Commuters! Meet other first-year commuters for fun weekly experiences which will include a variety of different activities that will be based on YOUR interests. Throughout the first 6 weeks of the semester, you will be able to attend football games, go to escape rooms, see movies, and other fun activities! Each participant will receive a commemorative gift at the end of the program.
For more information contact. Davonte Glasford, Orientation, Transition & Family Engagement Graduate Intern at glasfordd1@southernct.edu.
Join fellow first-year students for weekly activities designed to introduce you to the opportunities and resources available at the School of Business while connecting with regional businesses and employers. Over the first six weeks of the semester, you’ll have the chance to get to know fellow business students, engage in personal and professional development, and deepen your understanding of both yourself and the Southern community.
For information, contact Amy Grotzke.
The Mentor Academic Partnership (MAP) Program supports the academic, social, and communication needs and goals of neurodivergent and other students at Southern. Through a safe, supportive and encouraging environment, participating students learn to strengthen their academic, social, communication, self-advocacy, problem-solving and executive functioning skills to become more engaged in campus life and navigate the challenges of life in college and beyond. For more information, please contact the Center for Academic Success and Accessibility Services (CASAS):
Email: casas@southernct.edu
Phone: (203) 392-6828
Visit the CASAS office: Buley Library 303
Join us in the first few weeks of the semester to get fit, get active, and get connected! We'll have one-off tournaments like dodgeball and kickball, group fitness classes like yoga and pilates, and some outdoor activities like nature walks and canoeing trips!
For more information, contact Andrew Marullo.
Connecticut and specifically, New Haven, has been declared the pizza capital of the world! Ok, that may be a slight exaggeration. Beginning the 2nd week of the semester, join a group of other pizza enthusiasts for a weekly excursion to the best pizza places in New Haven. Each excursion will be preceded by a brief history lesson. Space is limited and this is at no cost to participants. Dates and times are TBD.
For more information, email Sal Rizza at rizzas1@southernct.edu.