A new academic year brings fresh opportunities to learn, connect and discover a sense of belonging — and at the University of Washington Bothell, that journey begins with a warm welcome.
As students stepped onto campus, a full slate of events and initiatives offered something for everyone, from academic open houses and meetups within majors to career guidance and opportunities to meet with faculty and staff.
Alongside these practical introductions to university life were dozens of chances to unwind, have fun and make new friends. Welcome Week — organized by Student Engagement & Activities and the Office of Orientation & Transition Programs — included a welcome dinner, campus resource carnival, open-mic performances, Boba & Bingo, Donuts with Dining, exercise classes and sporting events, games and movies, and many other community-building activities.
“Welcome Week showed me just how lively our campus can be! I came in with preconceived ideas of what campus life would be like, and it met my expectations and more,” said a first-year student.
A returning student commented, “As a senior, it felt great to see all the first-year students at events. It felt like I was sharing part of my own experience and love for this campus. I loved seeing how excited they were to get involved.”
The local community also joined in, with the Bothell Kenmore Chamber of Commerce hosting a food tour of downtown Bothell. Business owners learned about students’ interests and shared their professional journeys — and the students left not only with full stomachs but with a stronger sense of belonging in a city they call home during their college years.
Together, these activities reflect something fundamental about the University: a commitment to knowing students as individuals and creating an environment where they can thrive.
In a campus culture defined by collaboration, care and inclusion, student success is not simply an academic goal; it is also a shared responsibility that faculty, staff and fellow students demonstrated as they helped newcomers find their footing, explore their interests and build the relationships that make college a more meaningful experience.
That combination of personalized support, engaging learning and community connection sets the stage for what lies ahead as the academic year gets underway: a year of intellectual discovery, personal growth and new possibilities, both inside and outside the classroom.
