O-Week Schedule

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

During O-Week students will have the opportunity to meet with our University President.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

For more information on Divisional Advisors please click here.

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.

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.

For more information on Divisional Advisors please click here.

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

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).