In just a few weeks, transfer students and Temple’s incoming class of 2011 will arrive on campus and prepare to begin the transition into college.

In an effort to make these students’ first days on campus memorable, Temple University will host its second annual Welcome Week from Aug. 22 through Sept.1 on the Main, Ambler and Tyler campuses.

“It’s important to begin your college career on the right foot,” said Katie D’Angelo, associate dean of students. “Welcome Week is designed to provide students with all of the information they need as they start their college experience.”

In addition to getting advice on adjusting to campus life, new students will take part in special events including “Hillel’s Sushi Happy Hour,” shopping trips to south Philadelphia, Fan Fest at Lincoln Financial Field and an outdoor big screen movie during the 10-day celebration and orientation.

This year, the Welcome Week committee added a new event created to give students an opportunity to learn the value of community service.

On Saturday, Aug. 25, the entire freshman class will participate in FreshServe — a day of gardening, painting and building with community members, volunteers and staff at more than 100 locations around Philadelphia. A few of the service sites include YMCA, shelters, senior citizen centers, parks, playgrounds, and free health and legal clinics.

“FreshServe promises to be Temple’s largest single day of service in our community,” D’Angelo said. “More than 4,000 students will be out in the community getting to know our neighbors and the city.” Staff and faculty members are also encouraged to volunteer for Welcome Week events and FreshServe, said D’Angelo.

On Sunday, Aug. 26, the campus community is invited to attend Convocation ceremonies at 3:30 p.m. in the Liacouras Center.

“Convocation allows new students to take their place within the Temple community alongside classmates, faculty, deans and administrators, who will all be in attendance to welcome them into the university,” D’Angelo said.

A complete list of Welcome Week events is at www.temple.edu/welcome.

How to get involved
Faculty and staff volunteers are needed to assist with move-in, Welcome Week programs and FreshServe. Volunteers must be available for an hourlong Welcome Week Volunteer meeting and a full day of volunteer training on Wednesday, Aug. 22. For more information on how to become a volunteer, visit www.temple.edu/welcome/StaffInformation.htm.