More than 1,500 undergraduate and graduate students began their journeys in Arts & Sciences this week with a series of celebratory orientation events.
On Monday, Aug. 22, the College of Arts & Sciences welcomed more than 1,200 incoming undergraduate students during the Deans' Welcome event. First-year students gathered in Edison Theatre to hear remarks from Dean Feng Sheng Hu and Vice Dean of Undergraduate Affairs Erin McGlothlin. Students were encouraged to think about their journey over the next four years and write postcards to themselves at graduation.
Programming continued through Wednesday, with opportunities for incoming students to visit with academic departments and programs, engage with faculty members, and learn more about experiental learning opportunities with campus partners. The orientation activities culminated with an outdoor activity with campus partners, complete with ampersand-shaped pretzels.
Also on Monday, nearly 250 incoming graduate students gathered in Tisch Commons to learn about graduate student organizations and other campus partner groups before heading to the St. Louis Zoo for a day of programming organized by the Office of Graduate Studies. Activities included presentations on career and professional development, financial literacy, health and well-being, advice from current graduate students, and more — all geared toward the graduate student experience. During the lunch break, graduate students had time to explore the Zoo.
Dean Hu closed the day's festivities by reflecting on the way his own scholarship has been shaped by collaborations with colleagues from different fields, and encouraging students to enjoy this time of discovery and exploration. Students then learned more about the St. Louis Zoo and their conservation efforts through a private sea lion show and reception.
Welcome to Arts & Sciences, Class of 2026 and incoming graduate students!
Deans' Welcome
Office of Graduate Studies student check-in
Office of Graduate Studies orientation at the St. Louis Zoo
