University of the Pacific will usher in a new academic year with a week of traditions, campus experiences and opportunities designed to help students feel at home before classes begin on the Stockton Campus.

Pacific Welcome, held Aug. 15-23, combines move-in, New Student Orientation and Week of Welcome into a series of events that introduce new and returning students to campus life, academic resources and the Stockton community.

The celebration begins Saturday, Aug. 15, as students move into their residence halls. Later that evening, parents and families are invited to a special reception hosted by President Christopher Callahan and First Lady Jean Callahan at their home, offering an opportunity to connect with university leadership before students begin their Pacific journey.

Students can end their first day on campus by unwinding at ASUOP Arts & Entertainment's outdoor screening of "Toy Story," complete with snacks under the stars.

New undergraduate students and all new international students will continue their Pacific Welcome experience during New Student Orientation Aug. 16 and 17. Through interactive programs, campus tours and opportunities to meet classmates, students will become familiar with university traditions, support services and the resources available to help them succeed academically and personally.

"Starting college is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with plenty of unknowns," said Vice President for Student Life Maria Blandizzi. "Whether students are arriving as first-year, transfer or graduate students, they're learning their way around campus, meeting new people and beginning a brand-new chapter in their lives.

"We want students to feel like they belong from the moment they arrive. Our nine days of move-in, orientation and Week of Welcome are filled with opportunities to make friends, discover campus traditions, connect with faculty and staff and find the resources that will help them succeed. It's all about giving students the confidence, support and sense of community they need to make the most of their Pacific experience," she said.

Week of Welcome continues Aug. 18 with a focus on wellness and student engagement. The Take Care Fair connects students with campus and community resources that support physical, mental and emotional well-being while featuring carnival-themed treats, sustainability initiatives, free school supplies and information about programs such as Tiger Success.

That afternoon, students can discover fitness opportunities and recreational programs during RecFest before heading out for the annual Target Takeover, where shuttle buses will transport students on a late-night shopping trip to stock up on essentials for the semester.

Wednesday, Aug. 19, Pacific's newest class will be formally welcomed during New Student Convocation, a longstanding university tradition celebrating the beginning of each student's academic journey. Students can also begin planning future global experiences during a Study Abroad information session before wrapping up the day at Late Night in the Library, featuring a silent disco, gaming, interactive technology, movies and late-night treats.

Service takes center stage Thursday, Aug. 20, during Pacific's Day of Service. Students, faculty, staff, alumni and community partners will volunteer on projects throughout the region, reflecting the university's longstanding commitment to community engagement while giving new students an opportunity to build connections beyond campus.

That evening, students can continue making connections at ASUOP's Brickyard on the Lawn Club Fair, where dozens of student organizations will showcase opportunities for involvement throughout the year.

There are also mixers for first generation students and veterans to help them connect and learn about available support. 

The celebration continues Friday, Aug. 21, with the Pacific Friday Tiger Fair, highlighting campus resources, leadership opportunities and student involvement opportunities. Later in the afternoon, students are invited to Connect with the Callahans, an informal gathering with the president, first lady and members of the Pacific community.

"Jean and I are excited to welcome our newest Tigers into the Pacific family," Callahan said. "The experiences students share during Pacific Welcome are the foundation for meaningful connections, cherished memories and friendships that will stay with them long after graduation."

Pacific Welcome concludes Friday evening with Tigers Prowlin' the Mile, an annual tradition that encourages students to explore Stockton through local businesses, restaurants and community spaces. Shuttle buses depart from Burns Tower to make it easy for students to experience the city while building connections on and off campus.

Later this month, the Sacramento Campus will also host welcome events Aug. 24-26, including a student involvement fair, churro truck and more. 

See the full schedule of events.