N.E.S.T. Pre-Arrival Program
If you want an early connection to UMW campus culture and activities, consider the pre-arrival program N.E.S.T. (New Experiences for Students Transitioning). This program starts the Saturday before the traditional move-in and offers a unique opportunity to get a jump on exploring UMW and surrounding attractions as well as bonding with fellow students. Space is limited, and there is an associated cost. To register or learn more, visit the N.E.S.T. website.
Move-In
New students can move into residence halls on Wednesday, August 21. Please see the Residential Life and Housing website for more information.
Move-in Tips
- Keep your vehicle on paved areas only unless directed otherwise by UMW staff. When your vehicle is empty, move it off campus so others may move closer.
- It can be very warm in August. Dress appropriately.
New Student Arrival and Welcome
New Student Arrival and Welcome begins on Wednesday, August 21, and encompasses several different programs to make your transition onto the UMW campus seamless.
After students and families say goodbye to one another, students will begin five days of the new student welcome experience! Our newest Eagles can expect to be introduced to the UMW campus through a variety of programs, social events, and opportunities to connect with faculty and staff. You’ll learn about what it means to be an Eagle, find out how to navigate your way on campus, get to know more about your department and, of course, have a lot of fun!
Welcome Activities!
- Playfair
- Class Schedule Tours
- Club Carnival
- Glow Zone Glow Party
- President’s Ice Cream Social
- Cross Cultural BBQ
- Eagle Gathering
- Look for posted schedules, or visit New Student Welcome
RISE Peer Mentoring Program
The RISE Peer Mentoring Program is open to incoming first-year and transfer students, particularly underrepresented populations, to assist in effectively connecting them to the Mary Washington community. Once accepted into the program, new students (mentees) will be paired with continuing students (sophomores – seniors) as their peer mentors.
As participants in the program, students are expected to maintain weekly contact with peer mentors, participate in one group activity per month, attend at least two University-wide programs per semester, complete end-of-semester evaluations in the fall and spring, and comply with the University’s Principles on Diversity and Inclusion, Statement of Community Values, Honor Code, and Code of Conduct.
Any interested student may complete a Peer Mentee Application Form, which is available via the James Farmer Multicultural Center. Applications for the fall semester will be accepted from May through the first week of classes in August. There is no cost associated with this program.