WOW: Weeks of Welcome at the College of Charleston
The College's Weeks of Welcome run from Aug. 17–Sept. 28, 2024. This series of events, programs and activities aims to foster a spirit of community, belonging and involvement.
Are you looking to connect with the CofC community? Are you seeking that “wow” moment when you realize that you belong to something bigger than yourself, that there’s a whole community rooting for you, that CofC might just feel like home?
Well, if you haven’t said “wow” yet, you soon will! That’s because from Aug. 17 through Sept. 28, 2024, CofC is hosting its annual Weeks of Welcome (WOW). A joint effort from the Division of Student Affairs and the Office of Student Involvement, WOW is a series of events, programs and activities centered around fostering a spirit of community, belonging and involvement at the College of Charleston.
“Weeks of Welcome aims to get our students connected to the College community in a variety of ways. The first six weeks of the school year, it’s important to start building those connections,” explains James Contratto, executive director of student involvement. “I’m thankful for all the student organizations, departments and partners who are committed to building community here at the College of Charleston.”
With all the incredible experiences lined up for these few weeks, you’re bound to find at least one that piques your interest. From movie nights to dog therapy to athletic events, there’s something waiting to welcome you.
A full list of WOW events is available on the WOW events page, but here are just a few highlights:
First Night Charleston – WOW kicks off loud and proud with First Night Charleston, the first pep rally of the year! Join your fellow Cougars at 6 p.m. for an exciting night filled with games, prizes and memorable moments you won’t want to miss. Plus, it’ll give you a chance to check out TD Arena, a spot that CofC sports fans will want to get to know well.
Maroon Mayhem – Keep the school spirit fired up with Maroon Mayhem, an exciting evening where you can enjoy food, music and prizes … and maybe even snag a selfie with Clyde! The Office of Student Involvement is hosting this event on Monday, Aug. 19, from 3-6 p.m. in the Cistern Yard. Get there early to be one of the first 400 students, and you’ll win a free CofC T-shirt!
Careers Cookout – Get a head start on the future by joining top employers for free food, drinks, games and (of course) networking! The event is hosted by CofC’s Career Center on Tuesday, Aug. 27, from 12-2 p.m. on Rivers Green. The opportunities are waiting, so don’t miss out!
BEst Fest – Stop by the Cistern Yard from 1-4 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 18, to find tons of ways to get involved on campus! At BEst Fest, you can explore the Student Organization Fair, Wellness Fair, Volunteer Fair and Sustainability programs, while also enjoying games, food trucks, and other activities.
Weeks of Welcome also includes some recurring activities that you won’t want to miss out on. Here are a few:
Information Tables – Get to know your way around campus with the help of CofC’s friendly orientation interns! Interns will be offering anything from campus directions to exciting giveaways, so make sure to stop by at one of their two locations:
- Lightsey Center by the Bookstore: Tuesday, Aug. 20–Thursday, Aug. 22, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
- Cougar Mall: Tuesday, Aug. 20, and Wednesday, Aug. 21, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Dog Therapy – De-stress with the help of some adorable pups! Sponsored by the Office of Student Wellness and Well-being, this campus favorite is sure to bring a smile to your face. Starting on Thursday, Aug. 22, at the Stern Center Ballroom from 2-4 p.m., dog therapy will be available each week of WOW. Be sure to check the WOW events page for more dates!
Charleston Free Moms & Dads – If you’re feeling a little homesick, stop by Cougar Mall on Tuesdays (starting Aug. 20) from 2-4 p.m. for free hugs and dessert from the community organization Charleston Free Moms & Dads. Sponsored by the Office of Student Wellness and Well-being, this event fosters a supportive environment for students by bringing a taste of home (and something sweet!) to our campus community.
For a list of all the incredible WOW events, visit the WOW events page and be sure to check CougarConnect for updates. To register for certain events, students should use their CofC credentials to log onto CougarConnect, the virtual platform for student organizations and programs.
