West Virginia Universitys incoming freshmen are invited to see what it means to be a Mountaineer as they eat, meet and shop during this years Welcome Week festivities starting Friday (Aug. 21).


Students will have a chance to see all the University has to offer as they participate in a week of activities created just for them.


Welcome Week is a great time for incoming students to learn about WVU , meet future classmates and feel the pride that is inherent in our students. The events are designed to promote interaction among students, and provide opportunities for them to learn about the many resources and activities available on campus,said WVU President James P. Clements .


The Student Organization Fair will kick off the week on Friday evening at the Student Recreation Center . Representatives from the various student organizations at WVU will be present to recruit new members and get acquainted with their fellow Mountaineers.


The Mountaineer Shopping Extravaganza, held on Saturday (Aug. 22) from 7-10 p.m., will transport freshmen to Morgantowns University Town Center for some quality last-minute shopping. Many of the centers businesses will be extending their hours, offering student-only specials, as well as several drawings and giveaways.


The first day of classes will be set to the sounds of music. U92 , WVUs student-run radio station, will broadcast live in front of the Mountainlair. That evening, all students are invited to the Mountainlair Plaza for the Universitys annual Fall Fest. The free concert will feature a variety of big name performers.


In addition to many specific events, the University will be hosting several days of themed activities, including Wellness Day, Community Day, Multicultural Day, and Blue and Gold Day.


Wellness Day, scheduled for Tuesday (Aug. 25), offers students a look at the Universitys health and fitness programs. Students will be able to assess their health with free body fat analyses, relax with complimentary chair massages, and satisfy curiosities with free scuba lessons.


Blue and Gold Day will wrap up the week. The day is designed specifically for students to show off their new Mountaineer spirit as they take part in WVUp All Night and a Mountaineer Idol Preview.

p.

To view a schedule of Welcome Week events, visit http://university101.wvu.edu/welcome_week_2009 .