Weeks of Welcome 2026

Stop by the Student Affairs Welcome Tent during Move-In to get a warm Ball State welcome! New students and families can ask questions, pick up helpful resources, learn about campus services, and connect with staff who are here to support you throughout your time at BSU. Whether you need directions, tips for the first week, or just a friendly face, we’re here to help you feel at home from day one.

Welcome to the Neighborhoods! Meet more people who live on campus this year. Eat some Kona Ice in Central Neighborhood by Noyer Drive in between Studebaker West and Noyer. Make a Ball State themed drink coaster with Made in Muncie Pottery in North Neighborhood near the Beyerl Fire Pit. Join the South Neighboorhood in getting an airbrush tattoo outside DeHority Hall in DeHo Beach. Visit one or all neighborhoods as you kick start your on-campus journey!

Registration for the event opens August 1st at 10 AM.

Stop by the Health Center to drop off immunization records.

Cardinal Central—Ball State’s integrated, student-focused service center—is a convenient, one-stop location supporting the business of being a student. Stop by our office and speak with one of our specialists for quick, first-contact resolution answering your questions about financial aid, billing, registration, and more. Cardinal Central combines services from the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships, Student Financial Services (Bursar), and the Office of the Registrar. Our office also provides specialized support for 21st Century Scholars and Veterans benefits.

Stop by the Student Affairs Welcome Tent during Move-In to get a warm Ball State welcome! New students and families can ask questions, pick up helpful resources, learn about campus services, and connect with staff who are here to support you throughout your time at BSU. Whether you need directions, tips for the first week, or just a friendly face, we’re here to help you feel at home from day one.

Join your RA for your first floor meeting to learn about your community, hall policies, and everything about living in a residence hall.

Cardinal Central—Ball State’s integrated, student-focused service center—is a convenient, one-stop location supporting the business of being a student. Stop by our office and speak with one of our specialists for quick, first-contact resolution answering your questions about financial aid, billing, registration, and more. Cardinal Central combines services from the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships, Student Financial Services (Bursar), and the Office of the Registrar. Our office also provides specialized support for 21st Century Scholars and Veterans benefits.

Commuter students are invited to kick off the year with a special welcome before Convocation to connect with fellow commuters, meet campus staff, and learn about resources designed to help you thrive on campus. This session will lead you directly to Freshman Convocation.

Stop by the Health Center to drop off immunization records.

Join us at Emen's Auditorium for the Freshman Convocation is the University’s official first Academic event for new students at Ball State. President Geoffrey S. Mearns and Provost Anand Marri will formally welcome new students to campus, speak about the exciting year ahead, and recognize the enduring values of our University – excellence, integrity, social responsibility, respect and gratitude – as symbolized by our iconic Beneficence. Meet your future faculty and peers or explore new academic opportunities.

All CCIM Students Required

Join TC as they take students on a resource tour and bus tour to partnered potential places of service

Join the College of Health for their Dean's Office Welcome.

Welcome Session for students in the college of Sciences and Humanities.

Join University College for an opening session and orientation.

Join University College for an opening session and orientation.

CAP student orientation/kick-off to welcome students to the college and provide them with basic information on how the college functions.

A time for Nursing majors to meet their academic department!

A time for Exercise Science, Sport Administration, and Physical Education & Health majors to meet their academic department—the School of Kinesiology!

A time for Social Work majors to meet with academic department!

A time for Communication Sciences and Disorders majors to meet their academic department-the Department of Speech Pathology & Audiology!

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A welcome session for all college of fine arts students.

Welcome and Orientation with CAP Leadership - All CAP incoming students. Class photo will be taken during this time.

This is for students placed in Group 1. You will begin with a visit to the planetarium, then do trivia and a movie.

This is for Group 2. You will go to the planetarium, and then do trivia and a movie.

Group three will begin at the library and then go to the E-Sports Lab

Group four will begin with the e-sports lab and then go to the library.

Group 1 will start with the library and then go to the e-sports lab

A time for Public Health majors to meet their academic department—the Department of Nutrition and Health Science!

Join UC for small group breakouts, Discipline/Program Interest identification, and travel to Bracken

Meet your Academic department!

CAP First-year Students meet their faculty, student fellows and learn expectations, CM/ID students meet their faculty and learn expectations

Learn more about Information Literacy at Bracken Library

Join faculty from the school of art for Faculty roundtable and a Student faculty mixer

Join the school of Music for a talk from School Director, Franklin Larey and a discussion on Logistics and the “Culture” of SOM

Join the DOTD and meet the Coordinators and the DOTD Administrative Team, engage in a discussion on Logistics and the “Culture” of DOTD, and hear a talk from Department Chair, Bill Jenkins

Need help finding your classes before the first day? Meet a Weeks of Welcome Leader at the Bell Tower and head out in small groups to locate classrooms, navigate campus, and start the semester feeling confident and prepared.

Small groups for afternoon snacks and seek and find at the Learning Center, North Quad

Level Up Your Media Skills and Your Network with Dippin' Dots – Your Hub for Growth! Join the CCIM Living-Learning Community Kickoff and gain exclusive access to the LLC Makerspace! This is your vital training session for accessing the equipment room, boasting over 60 lockers of camera, sound, and video equipment. More importantly, this is an incredible opportunity to connect with your College of Communication, Information, and Media community – your peers, faculty, and staff – fostering a strong sense of belonging and providing a foundation for developing durable skills. You'll also learn about future workshops and events designed to enhance your lifelong learning.

Connect with Business Leaders and Your Community – Your Gateway to Opportunity! Join the Business Living-Learning Community Kickoff for an evening of outdoor fun and access to your LLC resource room! This is a fantastic opportunity to connect directly with Miller College of Business faculty, staff, and leadership, as well as your fellow students, fostering a strong and supportive community. You'll also hear about exclusive programs and initiatives throughout the semester designed to enhance your professional skills, leadership abilities, and overall well-being.

Find Your Creative Home and Your Stage! Join the College of Fine Arts Living-Learning Community Kickoff for an evening of creative connections and fun! Gain access to the Design Studio, Blackbox theatre, dance studio, and music production workstations. More importantly, this is a vibrant gathering to connect with your peers and faculty, fostering a strong sense of belonging within the College of Fine Arts. You'll also learn about upcoming workshops, performances, and collaborative projects designed to enhance your artistic skills and well-being throughout the semester. The evening will be followed by Karaoke in the lobby!

Get essential LLC makerspace training for the STEM makerspace, featuring 3D Printers, a Glowforge Laser cutter, and VR Gaming PCs. Crucially, this is an excellent opportunity to connect with your College of Sciences and Humanities community – your fellow innovators and dedicated faculty – fostering a collaborative and supportive environment where you can explore your passions and create solutions. You'll also learn about the many advanced learning opportunities and resources available throughout the semester to develop your technological and critical thinking durable skills.

Move Forward with Your Kinesiology Community and Build Your Team – Embrace a Healthy and Active Semester! Join the Kinesiology Living-Learning Community Kickoff! Gain access to valuable resource room study spaces and, most importantly, connect with the people and professors in your Kinesiology community within the College of Health. This is your chance to build your team, find study partners, and feel truly connected, fostering a strong sense of belonging. The event will be followed by cornhole and other games indoors and outdoors! You'll also hear about upcoming programs focused on well-being, physical health, and the development of durable skills crucial for your field.

Design Your Future and Your Creative Community with Makerspace Access – Innovate and Thrive! Step into the Design Living-Learning Community Kickoff! Get vital LLC makerspace training for the second-floor makerspace, which includes 3D Printers, a Glowforge Laser cutter, a Promethean smartboard, a large format printer, and much more. This is also a prime opportunity to connect with your peers and professors from the College of Architecture and Planning, building a collaborative and inspiring creative community where you can explore your passions and develop innovative solutions. You'll learn about future workshops and projects designed to foster lifelong learning and enhance your durable skills.

Kick off the semester with Open Mic Night. Whether you're a singer, poet, comedian, or just enjoy live performances, this is your chance to take the stage or support your fellow Cardinals. Sign up to perform or simply enjoy an evening of student talent and creativity.

Cardinal Central—Ball State’s integrated, student-focused service center—is a convenient, one-stop location supporting the business of being a student. Stop by our office and speak with one of our specialists for quick, first-contact resolution answering your questions about financial aid, billing, registration, and more. Cardinal Central combines services from the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships, Student Financial Services (Bursar), and the Office of the Registrar. Our office also provides specialized support for 21st Century Scholars and Veterans benefits.

Stop by the Health Center to drop off immunization records.

All CAP incoming students will be participating in a Library Workshop

Join upperclassmen from the College of Sciences and Humanities to learn more about their student experience.

University College Breakout Groups by Discipline/Program Interest 

Library Activity – All CFA First-Year Students

Join University College First Year Seminar Mentors for a panel session

Join TC during our student sessions

Join the school of art for student success workshops.

Join the school of music for student success activities.

Join DOTD Upperclassmen for a Q +A

All CCIM Students Required

Join the Teachers College for a session with Bracken Library over Digital Literacy.

Join the CSH in our closing ceremony!

Join CFA for a reflection and closing celebration

Join UC for their closing program

Symposium for 21st century scholars

Stop by the Career Center pop-up to grab free swag, snacks, and helpful resources while connecting with staff and learning how the Career Center can support your success from day one.

Need help finding your classes before the first day? Meet a Weeks of Welcome Leader at the Bell Tower and head out in small groups to locate classrooms, navigate campus, and start the semester feeling confident and prepared.

Join the COH in learning more about information literacy with Bracken Library.

Group two will begin with the e sports lab and then go to the library

Group 2 will begin in the e sports lab and end in the library

Group three will start at the planetarium and then have trivia and a movie.

Group four will start at the planetarium and then have trivia and a movie.

All CAP First-Year Students meet in AB 100 – Sketch walk through out campus

Learn more about how to be successful in lab sciences.

Join the College of Health in a closing session!

Educate Your Future and Build Your Teaching Community with Ice Cream – Discover Your Path! Step into the Education Living-Learning Community Kickoff! Get essential LLC makerspace training for the second-floor makerspace, featuring 3D Printers, a Glowforge Laser cutter, a Promethean smartboard, a large format printer, and much more. This event is also a fantastic opportunity to connect with your Teachers College community – your fellow aspiring educators and dedicated faculty – fostering a supportive and collaborative environment where you can explore your sense of purpose and develop crucial life skills for your career. You'll hear about ongoing initiatives designed to support your well-being and lifelong learning.

Explore Society and Your Community – Discover Your Impact! Join the Social Sciences Living-Learning Community Kickoff! Gain access to valuable resource room study spaces and, most importantly, connect with the diverse people and professors in your humanities community within the College of Sciences and Humanities. This is a fantastic chance to build camaraderie, find your place among those passionate about understanding the world, and learn about opportunities to contribute positively to your communities. You'll discover programs designed to enhance your critical thinking and communication skills throughout the semester.

Start to Your Health Journey – Connect with Future Colleagues and Comprehensive Support! Join the Health Professions Living-Learning Community Kickoff! This event offers crucial LLC Resource Room training, granting you access to anatomical models and other vital resources. More importantly, it's a dedicated time to connect with your peers and professors from the College of Health and the College of Sciences and Humanities, building a strong network of future health professionals and fostering a sense of belonging. You'll learn about various programs and resources available throughout the semester to support your well-being and academic success, helping you develop essential durable skills.

Symposium for 21st century scholars

Join UC for an activity.

Join us for a half day of leadership development centered on discovering your strengths, exploring your purpose, and learning how to lead authentically. Through interactive workshops, meaningful conversations, and hands-on activities grounded in Gallup CliftonStrengths, participants will gain a deeper understanding of who they are, what motivates them, and how they can make an impact in their communities and future careers.

Whether you are an emerging student leader, organization member, or someone looking to better understand your path, this experience will help you connect your natural talents to purposeful leadership. Attendees will leave with practical tools, greater self-awareness, and a stronger sense of confidence in how they lead, serve, and grow.

Stop by the Health Center to drop off immunization records.

Cardinal Central—Ball State’s integrated, student-focused service center—is a convenient, one-stop location supporting the business of being a student. Stop by our office and speak with one of our specialists for quick, first-contact resolution answering your questions about financial aid, billing, registration, and more. Cardinal Central combines services from the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships, Student Financial Services (Bursar), and the Office of the Registrar. Our office also provides specialized support for 21st Century Scholars and Veterans benefits.

Celebrate the start of your year, hosted by the President’s Office! Immediately following students’ leadership session, all incoming first-year students are invited to gather at North Dining for a relaxed afternoon of food, connection, and celebration. Enjoy a complimentary meal, spend time with fellow Cardinals, and reflect on a meaningful morning of leadership and strengths as you continue building community and settling into life at Ball State.

This event will allow students to learn about the resources and treatment for mental health support that are available to them on campus. We will also have therapy dogs on site with us for students to interact with.

Join First-Year Experience, University Advising, Success Coaching, and the Learning Center for games, refreshments, and prizes on the lawn in front of North Quad, home of the Student Success Center.

Need help finding your classes before the first day? Meet a Weeks of Welcome Leader at the Bell Tower and head out in small groups to locate classrooms, navigate campus, and start the semester feeling confident and prepared.

A time for Respiratory Therapy majors to meet with academic department!

Sweet Start to Your Honors Community – Find Your Place and Unlock Your Potential! Dive into your Honors Living-Learning Community Kickoff! Get ready to connect with the vibrant community of your peers and esteemed professors of the Honors College. This is a perfect opportunity to build lasting relationships and truly feel at home, fostering a strong sense of belonging. Discover the incredible benefits of your LLC, including access to valuable resource room study spaces, and hear about upcoming programs focused on lifelong learning and well-being that will help you develop durable skills.

Join Director of Athletics Jeff Mitchell for an introduction to Ball State Athletics at this spirited Chirp Chirp event! Meet Ball State teams, learn the fight song, and experience firsthand what it means to be a Cardinal. The excitement continues immediately following the program with a home women’s volleyball exhibition match, giving students the chance to cheer on the Cardinals and kick off the year with school spirit.

Stop by the Health Center to drop off immunization records.

Cardinal Central—Ball State’s integrated, student-focused service center—is a convenient, one-stop location supporting the business of being a student. Stop by our office and speak with one of our specialists for quick, first-contact resolution answering your questions about financial aid, billing, registration, and more. Cardinal Central combines services from the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships, Student Financial Services (Bursar), and the Office of the Registrar. Our office also provides specialized support for 21st Century Scholars and Veterans benefits.

Students have the opportunity to be shuttled to an off campus location and participate in 2 hours of community service.

Need help finding your classes before the first day? Meet a Weeks of Welcome Leader at the Bell Tower and head out in small groups to locate classrooms, navigate campus, and start the semester feeling confident and prepared.

Students have the opportunity to complete two hours of community service hours by making No Sew Fleece Tie Blankets

Kick off the weekend at Popcorn Friday! Stop by for free, freshly popped popcorn and a chance to connect with fellow students, campus partners, and Student Life staff. Whether you’re heading to class or taking a break between activities, Popcorn Friday is a simple way to relax, grab a snack, and enjoy a fun, welcoming campus tradition.

Students who are interested in joining a fraternity or sorority can join our office to learn more about how to get involved, what they do, and upcoming programs and events to get to know our students!

Stop by the Career Center pop-up to grab free swag, snacks, and helpful resources while connecting with staff and learning how the Career Center can support your success from day one.

This session will feature a panel discussion with leaders from a range of Muncie-based community organizations, potential participants include:

Faith-based organizations
Leadership Organizations
Volunteer-led service programs
Community organizations
Local businesses

Panelists will share stories of partnership, outline meaningful opportunities for involvement, and highlight best practices for community collaboration. A moderated Q&A will follow the panel. After the session students will be asked to reflect on the opportunities they have in their new home and how they can contribute to the greater community. By the end of this program, students will gain a better understanding of the Muncie community and what it offers.

Come get ready for the Activity Fair with the Office of Student Life. Visit the Student Organization Resource Room (SORR) to get poster boards, art supplies, and more for free! Additionally, we will have training ongoing on our new platform Be Connected. You can drop in, ask questions, work on posters, and more.

Come over to the Rinker Center for refreshments, an intro to Team Study Abroad, and an overview of study abroad opportunities at BSU

Come over to the Rinker Center for refreshments, an intro to Team Study Abroad, and an overview of study abroad opportunities at BSU

Join us on Friday to learn more about student wellness opportunities and safety procedures at Ball State University. Mandatory for all incoming students.

If Pokemon were real, where would they live? Visit the Rinard Orchid Greenhouse to complete a scavenger hunt of Pokemon inspired by real-life tropical plants in animals. In the Nature Lab, visitors can design their own habitats in a Pokeball (on paper), and complete other Pokemon-inspired activities. In Christy Woods, visitors can search for Pokemon and Pokestops using their Pokemon Go! app.

Explore, connect, and get involved at the Fall 2026 Student Organization Activity Fair! Meet representatives from a wide variety of student organizations, discover opportunities that match your interests, and learn how to get involved on campus. Whether you’re looking to build leadership skills, find community, or try something new, the Activity Fair is the perfect place to start making Ball State feel like home.

NOTE: Registered student organizations (RSO) wishing to have a table at the Fall 2026 Activity Fair must complete the registration form, which closes on Sunday, 7/5/26, at 11:59pm EST. RSOs that RSVP for this event without completing the registration form will not receive a table.

Join your RA to discuss all things bathroom and community to make an official agreement for the academic year.

Clifton Strengths Workshop for Students to Explore their top 5 strengths and how to use them a BSU

Kick off the semester with good vibes, great company, free food, and a live DJ at the Multicultural Center Welcome Celebration! Join us on Wednesday, August 26 at 5:30 PM for an exciting opportunity to connect with fellow students, student leaders, prospective members, and Multicultural Center staff. This is the perfect way to start the semester, build community, and learn more about opportunities to get involved. Be sure to mark your calendar because you won't want to miss this celebration!

Join the College of Health for the third annual Wellness Olympics! Test your health metrics in fun, interactive events like:
• Reaction Time
• Grip Strength
• Memory Game
• Balance
• Vertical Jump
We’ll be outside the Health Professions Building along Riverside Avenue. Stop by and try the Olympic stations set up around the building!