Welcome Week Events
Welcome Week at GCU is an experience packed with events that help new students settle in, make friends, and dive into campus life. Every moment is designed to welcome new students into the GCU community with fun, connection, and the Lope spirit.
Click the button below to download or view the full Welcome Week schedule
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Curbside Appointment Move-In
Welcome to Lope Country!
Check out the move in page for a route map, and more specific instructions on how to make your move in quick and easy!
Curbide Appointments* are 6 am - 10 pm Monday and Tuesday, 6 am - 12 pm on Wednesday.
*Curbide voucher required to access your building’s curb.
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Pop-Ups on the Promenade
Wanting to know more about Life Groups? Interested in a job on campus? Come to Pop-Ups on the Promenade to learn all about GCU campus departments and resources!
Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, 10 am - 12 pm on the Promenade.
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Neon Nights
Calling all meddling kids! Come enjoy live music, rides, neon art, snow cones, dirty sodas, and more!
Monday, 8-11 pm on Prescott Field.
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Silent Disco
Get ready for a night like no other at Silent Disco! Grab a set of headphones and dance the night away to music from a live DJ!
Tuesday, 8-11 pm in the Arena.
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IGNITE- Worship Night
Hosted by the Department of Spiritual Life, this annual Worship Night gives students the opportunity to worship, pray, and experience a faith-focused kickoff event before the academic year begins.
Wednesday, 7-10 pm in the Arena.
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Canyon Cool Down
Escape the Phoenix heat at Canyon Cool Down! Dive into fun with water slides, games, and a refreshing oasis to beat the summer heat. Don't miss this perfect opportunity to relax and have fun in the sun while staying cool.
Thursday, 8-11 pm on Juniper and Willow Fields.
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Lope-A-Palooza
Join fellow Lopes to celebrate GCU in style with music, dancing, and unforgettable fun. Celebrate the start of the school year Lope style!
Friday, 7-9 pm in the Arena.
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Faith in Your First Year
The Spiritual Life Department is excited to come alongside you with resources and support as you navigate your faith in this first year and throughout your college years.
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 11:30 am and 12:30 pm in the Prayer Chapel.
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New Student Commissioning
We are so excited to have you at GCU for this upcoming school year! Head to the Global Credit Union Arena with your family for your commissioning! Seating is first come, first serve so head over early to grab your seat.
Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday at 2 pm in the Arena.
(Doors open at 1 pm)
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Parent and Family Orientation
Parent and Family Orientation (PFO) is for parents and family members to learn more about how to partner with the university while their student is a Lope. While you attend your Orientation Group, encourage your family to attend PFO to hear from Public Safety, Residence Life, Student Care, and Enrollment. A panel of current parents and students will also share wisdom of their experience!
Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, 3 - 4:30 pm immediately following New Studnet Commissioning.
Also offered in Spanish in Sunset Auditorium
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New Student Orientation Groups
Once you are done with commissioning, students will join their orientation group. Here, you will meet other students from your building, explore campus resources, and choose to attend a variety of breakout sessions designed specifically for new students.
Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, 3 - 5 pm immediately following New Student Commissioning.
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Parent Social
Wanting to meet other Lope parents? Stop by the Technology building (57), to learn about Parent Involvement opportunities.
Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday at 4:30 pm.
Hosted by the GCU Parent Council.
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Community Gatherings
Start your GCU journey by connecting with others at Community Gatherings during Welcome Week! Meet fellow students, build new friendships, and discover ways to get involved on campus. Whether you're new to GCU or returning, this is a great opportunity to find your community and kick off the semester together.
Wednesday, 3-4 pm in every living area (for building residents only).
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Lope Family Sendoff
The Lope Family Sendoff is a meaningful time for students and their families to worship, pray, and reflect together before the semester begins. Join us as we celebrate this new chapter, seek God's guidance, and share a special moment of encouragement before parents and families say goodbye to their Lopes.
Thursday, 9-10 am in the Antelope Gym.
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Sunrise Yoga
Start your day with movement, and fresh air at Sunrise Yoga at GCU. Join us for a relaxing, all-levels yoga session as the sun rises over campus. Whether you're new to yoga or have an established practice, this class is designed to help you stretch, strengthen, and reset for the day ahead.
Friday, 6:30-8 am at Prescott Field.
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Club and Community Fair
Discover how to get involved and learn more about your GCU community! Representatives from campus clubs and organizations, as well as popular community members, will provide information, activities and samples. Plus, get information about GCU Student Leadership programs available to you!
Friday, 10 am - 1 pm in the Canyon Activity Center.
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GCU Club Events
International Justice Mission Club Social: Saturday, 2:00pm-3:00pm in Thunderground.
Finance & Econ Ice Cream Social: Saturday 3-5 pm in the CCOB Lobby.
National Society of Black Engineers Club - Engineering your Own Ice Cream: Saturday 4-5 pm in the Riverbed
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Lopeschella
Lopeschella is Multicultural Life's Welcome Week celebration, bringing students together through cultural arts and crafts, delicious cultural food, music festival vibes, and interactive activities!
Saturday, 6-9 pm at Prescott Field.
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American Kids Country Swing Dance Night
Join American Kids for a fun-filled Country Swing Dance Night at GCU! Whether you're a beginner or already know the basics, come learn new moves, meet new friends, and enjoy an evening of country music and dancing.
Monday, September 7th, 6-8 pm in the Arena.
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More events coming soon!
Check back soon for more events being added to the schedule! For a full event schedule click here.
#welcometolopecountry

