Fall 2026 NSO: Student Track

Friday, August 21, 2026

New Residential Student Check-in | 9 a.m.-1 p.m. | Huff/Residence Halls

Begin your Monarch journey through a streamlined and welcoming arrival experience. Students will remain in their vehicles and check in through a convenient mobile drive-thru process, where staff will assist with verification, materials distribution, and directions. After check-in, you will be guided to your residence hall to begin settling into your new home. Our team will be available every step of the way to ensure a smooth and supportive transition to campus life.

Student Access & Accommodations Drop-in Hours | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | One Stop, Davis Memorial Library

Connect with our Access & Accommodations team to ensure you have the resources and support needed for academic success.

Lunch | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Green & Gold Dining Hall

Take a break, enjoy a meal, and begin building connections with fellow new students.

Start Your MU Journey (Residential Students) | 5-5:30 p.m. | Huff Concert Hall

Kick off your Methodist University experience with an engaging and meaningful welcome into the Monarch community. As a residential student, this is the beginning of your journey in your new home away from home, where you will live, learn, and grow alongside your peers. During this special experience, you will be formally welcomed and participate in a pinning tradition that symbolizes your pride, belonging, and commitment to the Monarch experience.

Family Picnic | 5:30-7 p.m. | Berns Student Center/Quad

Celebrate the start of your journey with your family and supporters while connecting with the MU community in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy good food, great company, and the opportunity to meet new people as you begin your Monarch experience together.

Monarch Madness | 7-9 p.m. | Outdoor Basketball Court

Get energized and show your Monarch pride at this high-energy, fun-filled program designed to bring the class together. Monarch Madness features interactive games, music, and exciting activities that create opportunities to connect, laugh, and build lasting friendships. It’s the perfect way to celebrate your first night on campus and experience the spirit of the Monarch community.

Residence Hall Meetings | 9-10 p.m. | Residence Hall Lobbies

Meet your Residence Life staff and learn about expectations, resources, and community living.

Saturday, August 22, 2026

Breakfast | 7:30-9:30 a.m. | Green & Gold Dining Hall

Start your day with a meal while connecting with peers.

Commuter Student Check-in | 9-9:45 a.m. | Huff Concert Hall

Commuter students will check in, pick up important materials, and connect with friendly staff who are here to support your transition to Methodist University. This is also a great opportunity to ask questions, meet fellow commuter students, and start building your connection to campus from day one.

Start Your MU Journey (Commuter Students) | 9:45-10:15 a.m. | Huff Concert Hall

Kick off your Methodist University experience with a warm and welcoming introduction to the Monarch community! As a commuter student, you are an important part of the MU family, and we’re excited to have you here. During this special moment, you’ll be officially welcomed and take part in a pinning tradition that celebrates your connection, pride, and place at MU

Class Photo | 10:15-10:30 a.m. | Matthews Ministry Center Lawn

Come together with your classmates to celebrate the start of your journey and your place in MU history—we’re so glad you’re here.

Building Your MU Experience | 10:30-11 a.m. | Huff Concert Hall

Learn how to navigate your MU experience with confidence by exploring key campus resources, understanding community expectations, and connecting with the Student Affairs staff who are here to support your success. This session will introduce you to the people, services, and tools designed to help you thrive academically, personally, and socially throughout your time at Methodist University.

Meet Your Advisor | 11-11:30 a.m. | Various Locations

Take time to meet your academic advisor, who will be there to support, guide, and encourage you every step of the way on your academic journey.

Meet Your Major | 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. | Various Locations

Spend time with your faculty, who are excited to welcome you, as you begin building connections and learning what to expect in your academic program.

Lunch with Faculty | 12:30-1:30 p.m. | Berns Student Center Upstairs

Enjoy a relaxed meal with faculty as you connect, ask questions, and start building relationships that will support you throughout your time at MU.

Monarch Connections Fair | 1:30-2:30 p.m. | Riddle Center

Come explore student organizations and campus resources in a welcoming environment where you can connect with faculty, staff, fellow students, and community partners—your first step in finding your place and building your MU community.

Transfer Meeting | 2:30-3 p.m. | Hendricks 122

Join us for a welcoming session designed especially for transfer students, where you’ll find support, make connections, and feel confident as you begin your journey at MU.

Campus Tour | 3-4 p.m. | Leaving from Berns Student Center, Upstairs

Take a walk through your new home with a guided campus tour, where friendly student leaders will welcome you, share their experiences, and help you feel connected to MU from the start.

Dinner | 5-7 p.m. | Green & Gold Dining Hall

Recharge and continue connecting with classmates.

Student Activity | 8-10 p.m. | TBD

Close out the day with a fun and engaging activity designed to help you unwind, make new friends, and enjoy time with your fellow Monarchs.