New-student leaders walk with incoming first-year undergraduates as the group heads to a Student Orientation, Advising and Registration (SOAR)

Orientation Events

As part of our mission to improve students’ first year at UW–Madison, we host several orientation and welcome events. We look forward to welcoming you to campus.

If you are looking to partner with us or sponsor our events, email us.

On this page

SOAR

At SOAR (Student Orientation, Advising, and Registration), new students begin their transition to UW–Madison by learning about academic advising, degree requirements, and campus resources.

SOAR Advisors pose for a photo in the Marquee
Staff from the Transfer Transition Program gather outside the Kohl Center for the Student Org Fair during Wisconsin Welcome.

Wisconsin Welcome

Wisconsin Welcome is a multi-week celebration that invites incoming freshmen and transfer students to discover Madison, meet fellow Badgers, and find their campus community.

Convocation

Part of the fall Wisconsin Welcome events lineup, Convocation is hosted by the Chancellor and the Office of Student Transition and Family Engagement.

UW–Madison Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin addresses thousands of first-year and transfer students during the New Student Convocation.
First-year students, along with UW mascot Bucky Badger and Chancellor Mnookin form the shape of an iconic Motion W as part of the W Project.

The W-Project

Join thousands of new Badgers for a Fifth Quarter celebration at Camp Randall and recreate the annual “W” photo with your fellow new students.