Students at Orientation

New Student Orientation Events

We look forward to meeting you!

Events Overview

UCalgary’s two-day New Student Orientation is set to happen over two days, Thursday, Aug. 28 & Friday, Aug. 29, 2025.

Orientation 2025 is set to leave the bar high, as you'll experience staple UCalgary events. From the notable Pep Rally to the tasty Orientation BBQ and UCalgaryStrong Carnival – you'll not want to miss it!

Register for Orientation

DAY 1 - Aug. 28, 2025

Morning
 

Welcome and Pep Rally

 Join us for your official welcome to the University of Calgary!

Pep Rally

Get energized at the rally, meet your fellow incoming students, and practice your faculty chants. Don’t forget to pick up your faculty t-shirts and show your pride.

BBQ

Hungry after all that cheering? Lunch is on us!

Head to the Quad right after the Pep Rally for the New Student BBQ - free food, good vibes, and new friends guaranteed.

Students at the Pep Rally

Afternoon

Equip yourself with essential skills for your academic career, wellbeing, personal development and beyond for your next years at university.

Sessions

U need Fries with That: Sex, Consent, and Relationships On Campus (Play)

This exciting play follows four new university students as they become part of the UCalgary community and adjust to life on campus. If you’re into the arts, you have to come!

Speed Friending

Meet new people—minus the awkwardness. Make friends through fun, fast-paced 2-minute convos. Snacks and good vibes guaranteed! 

Setting Yourself Up for Success Session

Equip yourself with academic essentials and set yourself up for academic success with help from the Student Success Centre!  

Meet your Student Union (SU)

Join us to meet your student reps and share what matters to you! Find out about SU services, how to join or start a club, and get involved in student leadership on campus. 

Panels

Staff-led panels

Meet your UCalgary support squad! Hear from staff as they answer a series of pre-prepared questions designed to help you navigate university life with confidence. 

Student Stories panels

Gain inspiration and insight from experienced UCalgary students as they share their personal journeys. Learn how they shaped their paths and get tips on how to start strong and make the most of your own. 

Evening

Step right up to the UCalgaryStrong Carnival

Celebrate the start of your university journey with games, music, prizes, and more. 

Test your skills at a midway game, take a picture with friends, grab a sweet treat, and soak up the energy at the carnival.  

This is your chance to kick back, have fun, and make new memories.

Students getting a caricature done

DAY 2 - Aug. 29, 2025

The Great Dino Challenge

Watch out for details on "The Great Dino Challenge" (there are prizes to be won!)

Morning

Faculty Sessions

Head to your faculty to meet your Deans, advisors, and supports. Get familiar with your program requirements and launch into your UCalgary journey.  

Afternoon

Sessions

Check out sessions or activities you could not attend on Day One. Some options include:  

  • A TFDL Library Tour

  • U Need Fries with That 

  • Speed Friending 

  • Setting Yourself Up for Success Session Panels 

  • Meet your SU 

Choose Your Own Adventure Panel

Hear from students that have participated in learning experiences around the world. Explore opportunities like study abroad, undergraduate research and ways to learn beyond the classroom.  

Mature Student Workshop

Pivoting into undergraduate life? Come and discover resources, support systems, and how to make the most of your student experience – while meeting peers and making friends!

Evening

Tailgate & Kick off

Kick off the school year with the Dinos! 

Head to the TFDL Quad for an SU treat and swag; then head on to McMahon Stadium.  

Gather at McMahon Stadium on Friday, Aug. 29 as the Dinos Football team takes on the Regina Rams at one of our biggest games of the year — KICKOFF! 

Tailgate starts at 3:30 p.m. – enjoy food trucks, a live DJ, games, and giveaways. 
Kickoff at 5:30p.m.

FREE for all students – bring your friends and show your Dino pride!

Students at KICKOFF

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