WOW is a multi‑week celebration designed to help new and returning students ease into campus life with energy and connection. Throughout the program, students can explore involvement opportunities, learn about resources, and build relationships that support their success. From academic sessions to social events, each experience is crafted to help you feel confident navigating your new environment. It’s a lively and supportive multi-week kickoff to the year that encourages you to jump in, try new things, and find your place in the campus community.
Check back soon for a downloadable schedule!
WOW | THURSDAY
9am-2pm | RESIDENT MOVE-IN | Seton Center
It’s Move-in Day for you! Check your email for your assigned time slot to come to Seton Center for check-in. Move‑in day is when new students arrive on campus, get their room keys, and settle into their residence halls. It’s a busy but exciting time filled with unpacking, meeting roommates, and starting to feel at home in your new college community. We’ll have many hands on-deck to help your move and plenty of our infamous blue carts to go round!
3pm | COMMUTER CONNECTIONS | Seton Center, Ground Floor
Commuter students will arrive on campus during move‑in day to get oriented while residential students settle into their rooms. You'll have opportunities to connect with your fellow commuters,, connect with your fellow commuters, and meet the Commuter Student Leadership Team. Though campus will be busy, it’s a great opportunity to explore resources and get comfortable navigating your home base for the year.
4:30pm | COMMISSIONING CEREMONY | Mater Dei Chapel
Our Commissioning Ceremony welcomes new students into the college community, marking the official start of their academic journey with messages of encouragement and belonging. Parents and families are invited to join in celebrating this milestone as students prepare to embark on the year ahead.
5:30pm | DINNER | 5/3 Dining Hall
Dinner is available to residents, commuters, and families.
7pm | CLASS PHOTO and PLAYFAIR | Harrington Center
A class photo brings all new students together in one place to capture the moment they officially begin their college journey, creating a shared memory and a sense of unity from day one. Afterward, the Playfair icebreaker energizes the group with fast-paced, interactive activities that help students meet one another, break down barriers, and start building friendships in a fun, low‑pressure environment.
9-11pm | CAMPUS AFTER DARK | See Schedule for Activities
Come hang out on the Quad for firepits and s’mores, yard games; in The Den for foosball, ping-pong, pool, video games; head over to the outdoor court for some sand volleyball, and more!
WOW | FRIDAY
7:30-8:45am | BREAKFAST | 5/3 Dining Hall
Breakfast is available to both residents and commuters.
9am-1pm | ACADEMIC IMMERSION SESSIONS | See Schedule for Locations
Meet the experts who lead your academic program and get an insider’s look at what your major has to offer. This session helps you make connections and feel confident about your academic path from day one.
Explore campus like a pro as you team up to uncover hidden gems and must‑know resources. It’s a fun, fast-paced way to learn your new home.
Get set for a smooth semester with a quick, action‑packed rundown of everything you need to finalize your schedule. This session keeps you organized and ready to hit the ground running.
Discover what makes you shine by identifying your top personal strengths through the VIA framework. You’ll learn how to leverage your best qualities to thrive, beginning with this initial discussion that carries you into your CORE 115 Common Ground course.
2-5pm | CAMPUS WELL‑BEING & SAFETY ESSENTIALS | See Schedule for Locations
This portion of the day focuses on essential safety and well‑being information that every student needs to fully participate in campus life. While these sessions are required, they’re designed to be genuinely useful—giving you practical knowledge, resources, and confidence to help keep yourself and your community safe. It’s a meaningful part of WOW that supports your success both inside and outside the classroom.
Mental Health 101 and CCAPS Survey
Learn practical tools for maintaining your mental well‑being and get introduced to the support services available on campus. You’ll also complete the CCAPS survey to help the team understand students' needs and boost campus wellness resources.
Empower and Protect (Title IX and Reporting Topics)
This session equips students with the knowledge and confidence to recognize, prevent, and report misconduct so everyone can help maintain a safe, respectful campus. You’ll learn the essential tools and resources that empower you to advocate for yourself and others.
Run, Fight, Hide
In this dynamic safety session, you’ll learn the three key response strategies that can help you stay prepared and think clearly during unlikely emergency situations. It’s practical, empowering training designed to build awareness and confidence.
5:30-7:30pm | DINNER | 5/3 Dining Hall
Dinner is available to both residents and commuters.
8-10pm | CAMPUS AFTER DARK | See Schedule for Activities
WOW | SATURDAY
7:30-9am | BREAKFAST | 5/3 Dining Hall
Breakfast is available to residents and commuters.
10am-4pm | STUDENT LIFE SPOTLIGHT | See Schedule for Locations
The afternoon is all about diving into the excitement of campus life and discovering the many ways you can get involved. You’ll explore student organizations, leadership opportunities, and campus traditions that help shape a vibrant, connected community. You can also check out our fall sports teams and experience the energy of college athletics firsthand. It’s the perfect mix of engagement and school spirit, giving you a real taste of what it feels like to belong here.
6-9pm | LIONPALOOZA
Lionpalooza transforms the quad into a high‑energy campus party filled with games, circus‑style rides, and nonstop entertainment. Students can jump into friendly competitions, enjoy live music, and sample delicious food while soaking up the festive atmosphere. It’s the perfect chance to unwind, meet new people, and experience the vibrant spirit of campus life. With something exciting happening in every corner of the quad, Lionpalooza is an unforgettable celebration to kick off the year.
WOW | SUNDAY
Our Sunday Reset is a calm, grounding day designed to help you prepare mentally and practically for the first day of the fall semester. It’s a chance to settle into your space, get organized, and look over your schedule without the rush of classes. Many students use this time to relax, connect with friends, set intentions for the weeks ahead, or run any last-minute errands. The goal is to start the semester feeling refreshed, centered, and ready to take on a new academic year with confidence.
Tips for a Successful Reset
- Check your email so you don’t miss any important first-day details. (Actually, you should just get in the habit of checking your email every day for here on out!)
- Review your schedule and find each classroom on a map so you know exactly where you’re heading on day one.
- Lay out your essentials so your morning is stress‑free- backpack, laptop, chargers, notebooks.
- Clean and tidy your space to create a calm environment that supports focus and good habits.
- Plan your meals for the first few days, whether that means grocery shopping, visiting the dining hall, or prepping snacks.
- Set realistic goals for the week, focusing on small, achievable wins to build momentum.
- Give yourself downtime—take a walk, journal, or relax with friends to recharge before the semester begins.
11am-1pm | BRUNCH | 5/3 Dining Hall
Brunch is available to residents and commuters.
5:30-7:30pm | DINNER | 5/3 Dining Hall
Dinner is available to both residents and commuters.
7pm | MASS | Mater Dei Chapel
Questions or concerns? Contact the Orientation Team at NewLionsInfo@msj.edu.