Welcome Week set to give students a fun start to the school year

As summer break comes to an end, the 2025 school year makes its way to the forefront. While this transition can be challenging for some students, one organization aims to make this an enjoyable introduction for the new school year.  

The 2025 Welcome Week Committee invites all incoming and returning students to attend a variety of engaging events to help meet new people, create memories and see firsthand what college life has to offer. 

University Relations Photo

Two freshman wear safety gear at Camp Butter & Egg during Welcome Week 2024

The list of events will last throughout the first two weeks of school, from August 11 to August 24. This year’s theme is “The Suite Life of Troy,” based on the popular mid-2000s teen show.  

“We really wanted something that felt fun, fresh, and reflective of the energy and spirit we want to bring to campus,” said Welcome Week Committee's Co-Director Abby Gilliand, who is a junior hospitality and tourism major from Alexander City, Alabama. “I think this year’s theme really captures the excitement, school pride and sense of community that Welcome Week is all about. 

“It is hard being away from home, so we want students to feel connected, encouraged, and ready to take on this new chapter with confidence. We hope that by going to these events, it will help them feel all these things.” 

Some of the events and activities include Trojan Kickoff Party, PJs & Pancakes, Puppies at the Tipton, Movie Night, Tie-Dye & Paint Night and a trip to Camp Butter & Egg. 

“I am looking forward to meeting new people and welcoming the new freshmen,” said Lydia Reno, a committee member who is a junior special education major from Gulf Shores, Alabama. “The main goal of Welcome Week is to definitely meet new people and make different connections, so I hope that students will take away from welcome week different friendships, different opportunities and have so much fun.” 

The itinerary also includes events from other organizations on campus such as the National Association of Black Journalists’ Apollo Night Talent Show, University Activities Council’s Silent Disco, as well as Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.’s Patio Party at the Tipton. 

“I hope students walk away feeling inspired, connected, and confident about the year ahead,” said Brandon Wilkins, a committee member and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. member who is a junior exercise science major from Montgomery, Alabama. “Whether they meet new people, learn about new opportunities, or just feel a little more at home, that’s really what matters most coming into college. 

“Welcome Week is just the beginning, so I encourage every student to show up, stay open, and make the most of every moment.” 

To stay up to date with times and locations of each event, visit @troyuniversitywelcomeweek on Instagram. 

“We have been really intentional about creating events that we think everyone will enjoy and that are also welcoming, inclusive and full of energy,” Gilliand said. “It’s all about starting the school year with a positive mindset, so I hope students walk away from Welcome Week feeling like Troy is their home.”