O-Week Schedule


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O-Week 2024
Sunday, August 18 - 24, 2024

*MOVE-IN DAY will be Sunday, August 18th, 2024
More details to come in the Summer


Updated: December 19th, 2024

The agenda listed below is a tentative sample of what one should expect during Rice's O-Week and what is scheduled to change. Additionally, the events listed are those that all new students (freshmen and transfers) will take part in during the week. Please note that there are a number of smaller events occurring throughout the week that are College-specific or vary in times but are not listed below.

By clicking on the titles of some events, you can learn more about what has taken place in past years and what you could expect for your O-Week experience. A PDF version of this year's schedule has been made available here. Please note that this is information that can change and may be updated before O-Week 2024 begins on August 18th or through the week. Also, not all events and details for all Colleges are outlined on this schedule, but these will be discussed with new students during O-Week.

Sunday, August 18, 2024

7:00:00 AM - 11:00 AM - New Student Move-in at Colleges

Every College has a distinct move in time and process. This time covers the entire span of when move in can occur; it does not mean that every new student and family should arrive at their college at 6:30 am. More specific information about how to get to your College will be sent to you over the summer. O-Week Advisors and Rice students will greet new students, help them unpack, and get them ready for the exciting week ahead.

Campus Map

11:00 AM - 12:45 PM - Families in College Commons

At 11:00 am, families will begin their "goodbyes" as new students and families will be separate for the next session, and there are not opportunities to reconnect before the end of the parent Q&A. Parents and families should depart campus by 6:00pm.

12:45 PM - 4:00 PM - Student Lunch and Students in O-Week Groups

Students will have an opportunity to get to know the members of their O-Week Groups throughout the afternoon and during dinner.

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM - Introduction to Rice Colleges by College Magister

One of the most unique aspects of Rice University is its College system. This is an opportunity to hear from your College Magisters and Core Team.

6:30 PM - 7:00 PM - Introduction to Rice Colleges Government and History

One of the most unique aspects of Rice University is its College system. You will learn more about how Colleges are governed and how to succeed as a member of your College.

7:30 PM - 9:30 PM - Matriculation

Matriculation, one of Rice’s oldest and most exciting traditions, is every student’s official welcome to the University. Each new student passes through Lovett Hall’s iconic Sallyport, and it is tradition to not cross back through until graduation.

Monday, August 19, 2024

8:00 AM - 10:30 AM - Introduction to Academics and Divisional Advising Presentation

Throughout O-Week, new students will have many opportunities to meet with representatives from the Office of Academic Advising and various academic departments to assist in the development of their first semester's schedule and to ensure that they are on the right path for the major programs they would like to study.

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM - Faculty Address

Students will hear from a member of Rice's faculty about the academic achievements and expectations of the University.

1:30 PM - 4:00 PM - School and Department Orientations

These sessions are designed to provide our new students with a better opportunity to explore their academic interests during O-Week, particularly before they register for their first semester’s courses, and allows us to provide students with a stronger foundation for the expectations and requirements they will be held to.

5:00 PM - 8:00 PM - President's Welcome Party

During O-Week students will enjoy dinner with our University President.

Tuesday, August 20, 2024

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM - Academic Planning Sessions

Throughout O-Week, new students will have many opportunities to meet with representatives from the Office of Academic Advising and various academic departments to assist in the development of their first semester's schedule and to ensure that they are on the right path for the major programs they would like to study.

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM - Diversity at Rice

Students and Advisors will hear from Alex Byrd, Vice Provost for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Catherine Clack, a student affairs professional and Director of Rice's Office of Multicultural Affairs. In their role's working with college students has provided them a great amount of insight into the transition and diverse interactions that new students may experience during their first year at Rice.

11:15 AM - 12:00 PM - Rice Connections (Affinity Groups)

These meet-ups provide opportunities for new students to connect with current students alike and for the students' groups to also provide a very brief explanation of their organization and then engage the new students in something fun that would allow them to get to know each other. The goal is to help the freshmen build community based on their identity.

1:00 PM - 6:00 PM - Academic Fair

Members of many academic departments will be on hand to speak with new students about their proposed field of study and answer any questions they may have. This session is a great way for students to get to know more about a major or specific classes they may be interested in before beginning classes in the area.

6:15 PM - 8:15 PM - Rice Rally

Rice Athletics are an excellent way to show your spirit for your University and to cheer on your fellow Owls to victory! At the Rice Rally, you'll get to know some of the traditions of Rice, hear from coaches and the Marching Owl Band, and enjoy some O-Week-style fun and games.

Wednesday, August 21, 2024

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM - Academic Planning Sessions

Throughout O-Week, new students will have many opportunities to meet with representatives from the Office of Academic Advising and various academic departments to assist in the development of their first semester's schedule and to ensure that they are on the right path for the major programs they would like to study.

10:00 AM - 3:30 PM - Divisional Advising Appointments

For more information on Divisional Advisors please click here.

11:15 AM - 12:30 PM - Introduction to the Associate Program over Lunch

Each new student's O-Week group will be paired with a Rice faculty or staff member who will serve as a point of contact and resource throughout their time here. This lunch is an opportunity to learn about our Associates Program, learn more about their roles on campus, and identify connections for support, and prepare for their event later this evening.

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM - UIO Student Connections

This will serve as a time for all international students to check-in with the Office of International Students and Scholars about their week as well as to have any questions answered before the start of classes.

5:00 PM - 7:30 PM - Associates' Program

College Associates are members of the faculty and staff that provide additional support for students and have a vested interest in the happenings of a particular College. During O-Week, Associates will meet with new students and Advisors.

Thursday, August 22, 2024

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM - Divisional Advising Appointments

For more information on Divisional Advisors please click here.

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM - FGLI Student Connections

Student Success Initiatives will host a session for First-Gen Students and Low-Income Students.

5:00 PM - 7:00 PM - President's Welcome Party

During O-Week students will enjoy dinner with our University President.

5:00 PM - 8:00 PM - Course Registration

Throughout the week, new students will have the opportunity to insert potential courses into their Course Planner. Starting at 5:00 pm on Thursday evening, students will be able to view the results of the ESTHER Course Registration Planning Process. Adding and dropping of courses begins at 7:30 pm and will continue throughout the day as needed with various exceptions for specific types of courses such as Freshman Writing Intensive Seminars (FWIS).

Friday, August 23, 2024

9:30 AM - 12:15 PM - Center for Career Development, The Doerr Institute for New Leaders, & LILIE Center for Entreprenuership Information Sessions

New students will hear from these three of campus support services office.

1:30 PM - 10:00 PM - College Specific Events

Saturday, August 24, 2024

4:00 PM - 7:00 PM - Welcome Back Day Festival