Fall Start

Orientation Experiences

Kick off your UNC experience in August with Fall Start Orientation & Welcome! From July NSO sessions to New Student Days and the B.I.G. Bear Welcome Kick-Off, this is your chance to dive into UNC traditions, build strong connections, and feel the energy of returning Bears. Whether you’re attending in person or virtually, you’ll leave ready, supported, and excited for what’s ahead.

NSO and NSD – What’s the Difference?

New Student Orientation (NSO)

Your introduction to UNC. NSO happens before the semester begins. You’ll connect with staff, meet other students, and learn about the resources that will help you succeed.

New Student Days (NSD)

Your community welcome. NSD takes place right before fall classes begin and focuses on connection, involvement, and UNC traditions. It’s where your incoming class comes together to kick off life as a Bear.

In short:

  • NSO: Academic prep + resource connections
  • NSD: Community, involvement, and school spirit
  • Both: Expected and strongly encouraged for all new Bears — together they help you start prepared, connected, and confident.

NSO – Flexible Ways to Participate

We offer both on-campus and virtual orientation options. No matter which you choose, you’ll get the essential information you need to begin your UNC experience prepared and confident.

On-Campus Orientation

Visit UNC’s Greeley campus for a day of learning. Join sessions, meet other Bears, and feel the welcoming spirit of our community.

Virtual Orientation

If you cannot attend in person, join us online. Learn about campus resources, expectations, and ways to connect—wherever you are. You will also meet with staff and explore campus life.

New Student Days

A smiling student pushes a large blue move-in cart outside a residence hall while two UNC staff members in matching shirts walk alongside, laughing and supporting.

Wednesday

Kick-Off Your UNC Journey – The adventure begins! Move in, meet your floor and commuter peers, and join the full class of new Bears for our high-energy Kick-Off Ceremony. The evening is all about settling in, connecting with your community, and starting to feel at home.

Students sit around a table laughing and playing the game “Headbands” with cards on their foreheads during New Student Days.

Thursday

Build Your Community – Spend the day exploring your academic home, connecting with faculty, and discovering the many resources available to support you. You’ll also dive into small groups, traditions, and community expectations that make UNC such a welcoming place. The evening brings opportunities to meet new friends and relax with fun social activities.

B.I.G. Bear Welcome

B.I.G. Bear Welcome Kick-Off opens the doors to all students, bringing the campus together for high-energy events, involvement opportunities, and moments that make UNC feel like home. B.I.G. Bear Welcome Kick-Off leads into B.I.G. Bear Welcome, a multi-week celebration packed with events, student life activities, and campus traditions—all building up to Homecoming Week.
A large crowd of students gathers on a grassy field with multiple blue UNC Dining Services tents and barbecue grills set up, smoke rising as food is being served.

Friday

Bear Pride in Action – The weekend launches with signature campus traditions that bring all Bears together. From resource fairs and spirit rallies to socials and evening events, today is about showing your UNC pride and celebrating with the entire community.

UNC marching band members play brass instruments indoors, wearing navy “Pride of the Rockies” shirts and ball caps.

Saturday

Explore & Engage – Discover ways to get involved and find your place at UNC. Whether through involvement fairs, athletic events, or outdoor and campus traditions, this day is packed with opportunities to connect, cheer, and celebrate with friends old and new.

Students and staff line up under a UNC Dining Services tent serving hamburgers and food from large trays during an outdoor welcome event.

Sunday

Get Ready for Class – Close out the week with events that help you feel confident and prepared for your first day. From exploring campus and involvement options to relaxing with low-key socials, today ensures you’re ready to start strong as classes begin.

View Our Complete Calendar

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