Weeks of Welcome: 5 Events to Make You Say WOW!
The College's Weeks of Welcome run Aug. 16–Sept. 29 and aim 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. 16 through Sept. 29, 2025, CofC is hosting its annual Weeks of Welcome (WOW), a series of events, programs and activities centered around fostering a spirit of community, belonging and involvement 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 to budgeting workshops to bingo nights and pick-up sports, there’s something waiting to welcome you.
Come form friendships, explore campus life and find your place here at the College of Charleston! This is your campus, your community!
A full list of WOW events is available on the WOW events page or through the Campus Calendar, but here are five events that you won’t want to miss!
Aug. 26, 7 p.m.
Simons Center Recital Hall
Come find out why BINGO night is the Cougar Activities Board’s most-attended event of the year! Play BINGO for a chance to win some big prizes and back-to-school essentials, décor for your room or snacks for your fridge! Clyde the Cougar will be there, as well as a build-your-own ice cream bar and plenty of campus spirit. It’s the perfect way to kick off the semester with friends, laughter and a little friendly competition! Sponsored by the Cougar Activities Board.
Sept. 3, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Cistern Yard
At BEst FEST, BE you! BE connected, BE intentional, BElong. If you’re looking to get connected to the College and community, join us for games, food and activities in the Cistern Yard! We’ll have our student organizations, volunteer opportunities, wellness resources and more to help you find your place of belonging. Sponsored by the Center for Sustainable Development, Office of Student Involvement, Office of Student Wellness and Well-being, Center for Civic Engagement, Charleston Culinary Group, among others.
Life Design Festival: Design Your Fall, Design Your Life
Sept. 15, 3–6 p.m.
14 Green Way
Celebrate the new season and the launch of the new Life Design Center. Through creative activities, music and festive fall vibes, students will reflect on their personal goals, identities and the impact they want to make at CofC and beyond. Drop by to enjoy the fall-themed refreshments! Sponsored by the Life Design Center.
Sept. 19, 6 p.m.
All aboard! Join the Cougar Activities Board on one of Charleston’s harbor cruises for a chance to sail into the sunset. The cruise will be packed with food, beverages, a DJ for good vibes and plenty of photo ops for the perfect picture. Don’t let this opportunity cruise by you, and RSVP on Cougar Connect for the event now! Sponsored by the Cougar Activities Board.
Sept. 29, 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Rivers Green
Join the Career Center for the third annual Careers Cookout, a tailgate-style party where you’ll meet friendly employers eager to connect with you! The cookout will include a free lunch, giveaways and swag, Career Center staff meet-and-greet and casual networking with recruiters who want to meet you! Whether you’re exploring careers or just here for the snacks, you’re welcome. No pressure, just good vibes. Come hungry; leave inspired. Sponsored by the Career Center.
