Weeks of Welcome is a series of events, during the first eight weeks of the semester, for new and returning students to get connected to resources, build community and find ways to plug in. Here’s what you need to know.
1. 1831 List is here.
Named in honor of UA’s founding year, the 1831 List is a curated list of 18 events and 31 experiences that students won’t want to miss during their first weeks on campus. Events include things like Bama Jam and Get on Board Day, and experiences range from studying at Gorgas Library to cheering the Tide at a football game, or browsing the Tuscaloosa River Market.
2. There are events for you.
Musical concerts. Lessons on cooking hacks. Rec center tours. Arts walks and book fairs. Classes on budgeting. No matter your interests, there are Weeks of Welcome events to engage you and show you the richness of opportunities at The University of Alabama.
3. It’s not just for freshmen.
If you’re a sophomore, an upperclassman, or even a graduate student, don’t worry. Weeks of Welcome is just as much for you as it is for first years. All WOW events are free and open to all UA students. Even Script A, which traditionally focuses on freshmen, welcomes returning students beyond the first year to be “anchors” — part of the outline of the letter.
4. It’s a full-campus effort.
While it’s true that Weeks of Welcome is coordinated by University Programs within the Division of Student Life, it’s actually a University-wide collaboration. Departments, colleges and divisions across campus pitch in to offer events and make sure returning UA students are welcomed and connected.
5. It goes beyond August.
Many of the WOW signature events happen in the first couple of weeks. But last year, Weeks of Welcome was extended from two weeks to eight weeks, with WOW 2026 kicking off Sunday, Aug. 16, and running through Saturday, Oct. 10. That means there will be plenty of events through the first half of the semester. Use Weeks of Welcome to find your niche on campus, and you’ll stay connected throughout the year.