Why you should attend our Welcome Program
Our Semester 1 Welcome Program has officially kicked off! We're excited to welcome you to the new academic year and can't wait for you to participate in our expansive, six week program.
From learning workshops to help set you up for academic success to USU's Welcome Fest (14–16 February) where you can join clubs and societies and enjoy live music, there's something for everyone in this semester's Program.
To help you plan your Welcome Program schedule, we've pulled together five reasons to attend.
Welcome is the perfect opportunity for all students to meet people and make new friends.
Meet new people
From cohort Welcome events, like International Welcome Day, to USU's Campus Race and Welcome to Sydney Party, there are plenty of opportunities during Welcome for you to meet new people.
Who knows – the members of a society you signed up for or the people you meet through our social events could end up being in your class or tutorial!
Join clubs and societies
Joining a University club or society is one of the best ways to get to know your fellow students and make friends, and the best time to do it is during Welcome.
With over 180 clubs and societies to choose from, spanning academic, culture and language, sports and political interests, we recommend you sign up for one, or many, during USU's Welcome Fest.
Grab free food and merchandise
There's no better time to stock up on limited-edition University merchandise or free products, food and drinks than during Welcome.
While you can find freebies at most Welcome events, USU's Welcome Fest is where you'll hit the jackpot. There'll be plenty of free products, from sponsor keychains and vouchers, to free food and drinks thanks to USU, along with limited-edition merchandise from the University.
Catch live music performances
From 3–5 pm on Wednesday 14 February, head down to the main stage on the Front Lawns outside the Quadrangle to catch live music performances from two incredible Australian artists.
If last year's star-studded lineup is anything to go by (Genesis Owusu, King Stingray, Haiku Hands), we know you're in for a treat this semester. Keep an eye on our University Instagram to be amongst the first to learn who's headlining this semester.
Set yourself up for academic success
Start the new academic year on the right foot by attending a range of events and workshops that introduce you to our University systems, academic expectations and study support resources.
From the Learning Hub's successful essay writing workshop to the Library's introduction to Canvas, courses and assessments, there are plenty of tools available to help you prepare for University before classes start.
Select 'Support Events and Services' on the Welcome Planner to find and register for events and workshops.
Semester 1 2024 Welcome Program highlights
| Event | Date and time | Description |
| USU Campus Race | Tuesday 6 February, 1–5 pm | Team up to race against the clock and compete in challenges around our campus to be crowned this year’s Campus Race champion. |
| Postgraduate Coursework Welcome | Tuesday 6 February, 6–8 pm | Meet and connect with fellow postgraduate coursework students and hear about the helpful support services you have access to. |
| International Student Welcome Day | Thursday 8 and Friday 9 February, 10 am–2:30 pm | Meet and connect with fellow international students, experience traditional Aboriginal performances and Welcome to Country, and learn how to access support services and tips. |
| Listening to Earth at Chau Chak Wing Museum | Tuesday 13 to Friday 16 February, 10 am–5 pm | The Sustainability team and Chau Chak Wing Museum invite you to experience Listening to Earth, an exploration of the vibrational interplay between the sea and the land. |
| Welcome Ceremony | Wednesday 14 February, 10–11:30 am | The Welcome Ceremony is the official University Welcome for all students. The Ceremony will begin with a Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country, then move into addresses from the Vice-Chancellor, student leaders and a special guest. |
| USU Welcome Fest | Wednesday 14 to Friday 16 February, 10 am–5 pm | From joining clubs and societies to enjoying live music and movie nights, there are plenty of activities to take part in during USU's Welcome Fest. |