Before you dive into your first term of classes, we have a jam-packed week of exciting activities to help you become acclimated to campus life. From speakers, to socials, to signing your name on the sidewalk, join your fellow new wolves to begin making your mark at WOU!
By participating in PACK Welcome Week, you agree to be photographed and/or recorded and grant Western Oregon University the permission to use your image, voice, and likeness in any university materials or communications.
If you would like to request disability-related accommodation(s) to participate in a WOU activity or event, complete the online request form at least three (3) business days in advance. If you have questions, please contact Disability Access Services (DAS) at 503-838-8250 or [email protected].
Sign up or log in to add sessions to your schedule and sync them to your phone or calendar.
This presentation explores disability access at WOU, emphasizing that access is not limited to individuals with disabilities but that it benefits anyone whose learning is enhanced through flexible or alternative approaches. The session will define key concepts such as access and disability, outline the process for obtaining support, and offer tips for advocating for your needs in the classroom. We will also teach you basic sign languages!
NOTE: This session is also offered in a later Ed Session Block.
Ready to see where your imagination can take you? In this interactive workshop, we're breaking the "rules" of traditional writing to explore the power of storytelling through different lenses.
Whether we are building scenes out of LEGOs, stepping through mysterious doorways, or crafting collaborative epics one sentence at a time, this session is all about creative problem-solving and finding your voice. No "perfect" grammar required—just a willingness to play, build, and connect with fellow students through the art of the narrative.
In this session, you will: - Connect with peers through shared creative challenges, - Develop adaptable storytelling skills applicable to any major, - Explore how visual and tactile prompts can jumpstart academic and personal writing, and - Most importantly, have fun through creativity.
NOTE: This session is also offered in a later Ed Session Block.
A 4.0 GPA isn't achieved overnight. Academic success takes time and a series of intentional decisions made over the course of a term in the face of all the challenges life may throw at us. But you are never alone! Join Student Success and Advising as we play a Choose-Your-Own-Adventure-style game in which we simulate a collegiate term, each week being asked to manage your time in unique ways with various obstacles along your path. We will teach you time management strategies as you go, clue you in on all the great academic resources WOU has to offer, and see if you have what it takes to make your first term one to remember!
NOTE: This session is also offered in a later Ed Session Block.
Do you like Dungeons and Dragons? How about rolling dice? What about learning how to budget and save money? This session combines financial literacy with dice rolling by putting you into scenarios where you spend money before facing the final boss: paying your rent!
NOTE: This session is also offered in a later Ed Session Block.
Looking to make new connections, share some laughs, and find your campus crew? Join us for Speed Friending — a fast-paced, low-pressure way to meet awesome new people!
Rotate through quick, fun conversations and leave with new friends (and maybe a few fun stories). Whether you're a social butterfly or just dipping your toes into campus life, everyone’s welcome. Plus, you'll get to meet the friendly faces behind the Office of Student Conduct, Dean of Student's and Abby's House — we’re more about community than you might think! Snacks, good vibes, and great connections are happening here!
Anxious about Canvas? Join WOU’s Center for Teaching and Learning for a no-pressure, interactive introduction to Canvas. Try out different ways to interact with course content and receive hands-on support, so that you can feel confident when you step into the classroom. Win prizes, eat snacks.
NOTE: This session is also offered in a later Ed Session Block.
What requirements must be met in order to complete a degree at WOU? Where do you find those requirements? How do you know if you've completed them? We'll answer those questions, including how to navigate Degree Tracks, the system WOU uses to track progress toward your completion!
NOTE: This session is also offered in a later Ed Session Block.
Math and science classes can be challenging. Faculty members from these departments invite you to learn about techniques that help students succeed. Current WOU students will share their experiences and thoughts on student success, as well as tips on how to connect with other students through clubs and organizations such as FEM in STEM, the Natural Science Club, the Pre-Med Club, the Math Club, and Byte Club. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions about the strategies and skills that will help them succeed at WOU. We welcome students who plan to major in math and sciences, as well as students who plan to major in other disciplines but want to do well in their General Education required courses.
NOTE: This session is also offered in a later Ed Session Block.
Is cereal soup? Does pineapple belong on pizza? Should everyone have the right to vote? Is freedom of expression absolute? Learn how to engage in these conversations and many more as you navigate your time at WOU. You decide, this or that. You debate, topics of your choosing. You participate, we have giveaways. Let's engage in this interactive session to help us all better navigate conversations productively.
NOTE: This session is also offered in a later Ed Session Block.
So what's your major? - We've all been asked this question at least once by a well meaning adult (and maybe felt some fear in not having the "right" answer). However, roughly 80% of students change their majors at least once during their college careers. So why do we insist that students decide their major as soon as they step foot on campus? Here's a little secret...you don't have to know! Exploring different subjects before making any decisions about your major, especially if you're not sure what you want to do, is why we have the Exploratory Studies major option. In this session, we will play a round of "What's My Major?" Jeopardy to investigate the different job opportunities that come from a variety of different majors. The major and career pairings might surprise you and show you why being asked "what's your major?" isn't anything to fear!
NOTE: This session is also offered in a later Ed Session Block.
Did you know that ASWOU serves and supports all students on campus? Come learn about all things student government at Western: who they are, what they do, how to share your needs and opinions as a student, and how to get involved!
Ready to see where your imagination can take you? In this interactive workshop, we're breaking the "rules" of traditional writing to explore the power of storytelling through different lenses.
Whether we are building scenes out of LEGOs, stepping through mysterious doorways, or crafting collaborative epics one sentence at a time, this session is all about creative problem-solving and finding your voice. No "perfect" grammar required—just a willingness to play, build, and connect with fellow students through the art of the narrative.
In this session, you will: - Connect with peers through shared creative challenges, - Develop adaptable storytelling skills applicable to any major, - Explore how visual and tactile prompts can jumpstart academic and personal writing, and - Most importantly, have fun through creativity.
This learning experience will introduce the audience to the Blue Zones, which are areas of the world where higher than usual numbers of people live much longer than average. Within these Blue Zones are common elements of lifestyle, diet, and outlook that have allowed residents to achieve longer, better lives. During this learning experience, participants will learn about and engage with the nine powerful but simple lessons that can put us on a path to better health, well-being, and longevity.
Math and science classes can be challenging. Faculty members from these departments invite you to learn about techniques that help students succeed. Current WOU students will share their experiences and thoughts on student success, as well as tips on how to connect with other students through clubs and organizations such as FEM in STEM, the Natural Science Club, the Pre-Med Club, the Math Club, and Byte Club. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions about the strategies and skills that will help them succeed at WOU. We welcome students who plan to major in math and sciences, as well as students who plan to major in other disciplines but want to do well in their General Education required courses.
Dew glistens on the summer grass as the sun breaks over the horizon. A new generation of heroes has arrived in the fabled town of Mönmyth! They have a long adventure ahead of them, but they must first devise their plan. Can these heroes craft a budget in time to face off against a sinister Golden Dragon?
Join us for a personal finance session taught in the stylings of a Dungeons and Dragons campaign. Improve your understanding of basic budgeting while partaking in a collaborative storytelling game. No prior experience in either is required.
NOTE: This session is also offered in a later Ed Session Block.
Are you interested in a career in Business, Accounting, or Economics? Join us for a demonstration of what our faculty will be teaching! We offer careers in Marketing, Management, Finance, International Business, Accounting, Entrepreneurship, and more. We will host a mock class demonstrating what the class structure will look like and will provide interactive presentations to engage future students and their guests. This is a great opportunity to connect with faculty and staff within the Division of Business & Economics! We look forward to meeting the next generation of future business leaders.
NOTE: This session is also offered in a later Ed Session Block.
If life is like a box of chocolates, WOU is like a box of interlocking bricks. Come to our session to learn how to write your instruction manual, to build the YOU that you want to be.
NOTE: This session is also offered in a later Ed Session Block.
Gaining Title IX knowledge might not be on your list of to-do's this welcome week, but it will be when you realize you can do it with the help of a miniature pony!! Join the Title IX Coordinator (with the help of WOU's Equestrian team members) in a friendly competition involving obstacles, Title IX trivia, and Cookie Monster (the wonder pony)!!
Wednesday September 23, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm PDT The Grove
Starting college with a disability or chronic illness can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to figure it out alone! This session is about finding community, sharing real experiences, and learning how to navigate this new challenge… college life!
Come check out and join WOU’s Disability and Chronic Illness Club to learn about support, resources, and community here on campus.
Whether you're newly navigating a diagnosis, have years of experience, or you're a disability ally, you belong here.
Stop by our Basic Needs Space to learn more about what the Food Pantry and Stitch Closet on campus has to offer. We have FREE professional interview attire, casual clothing items, WOU Gear and FREE grocery items! Whether you're curious, need support, or just want to snag some goodies, this event is for you.
Come and ask a panel of WOU students questions about anything EXCEPT their sexuality and see if you can pick out who is straight! The Stonewall Center Coordinator will facilitate a discussion on stereotypes and sexuality.
This presentation explores disability access at WOU, emphasizing that access is not limited to individuals with disabilities but that it benefits anyone whose learning is enhanced through flexible or alternative approaches. The session will define key concepts such as access and disability, outline the process for obtaining support, and offer tips for advocating for your needs in the classroom. We will also teach you basic sign languages!
Dive into the world of leadership with this brief introduction into the topic! We'll talk about the various ways to lead on campus, and opportunities to develop ourselves and our own skills. After all, we will each find ourselves in a leadership position at one time or another. This fun and interactive session will focus on the understanding that leadership is a skill and that it can be developed - what we do with that information is up to us.
Ride Into Welcome Week with WOU Equestrian at the Mini Pony Photo Stop & Golden Ticket Prize event. Meet a miniature pony up close for fun photo opportunities, snap the perfect campus memory, and learn more about the Western Oregon University Equestrian Team while you're there. Don't forget to grab your Golden Ticket for a chance to win an exclusive “Meet the Horses” barn visit and grooming session with the team horses. . . an experience that gets you behind the scenes with the team. Whether you're curious about riding, love animals, or just looking for something fun to do on campus, this is your chance to connect, win, and discover what the equestrian team is all about.
Thursday September 24, 2026 10:00am - 12:00pm PDT The Grove
A 4.0 GPA isn't achieved overnight. Academic success takes time and a series of intentional decisions made over the course of a term in the face of all the challenges life may throw at us. But you are never alone! Join Student Success and Advising as we play a Choose-Your-Own-Adventure-style game in which we simulate a collegiate term, each week being asked to manage your time in unique ways with various obstacles along your path. We will teach you time management strategies as you go, clue you in on all the great academic resources WOU has to offer, and see if you have what it takes to make your first term one to remember!
Do you like Dungeons and Dragons? How about rolling dice? What about learning how to budget and save money? This session combines financial literacy with dice rolling by putting you into scenarios where you spend money before facing the final boss: paying your rent!
What requirements must be met in order to complete a degree at WOU? Where do you find those requirements? How do you know if you've completed them? We'll answer those questions, including how to navigate Degree Tracks, the system WOU uses to track progress toward your completion!
All are welcome! Whatever your sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, this session wants to celebrate you and make sure you know what Western has to offer you. Join us to meet new people while learning about available resources, helpful hints, and networking on campus.
"The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members." -Coretta Scott King
Come enjoy an ITALIAN SODA and meet some important folks that can fill you in on different aspects of life at Western Oregon University - from ways to report things to other campus resources. We will have you covered.
Between studying, extracurriculars, group projects, and trying to maintain a social life, who has time for more? We sure don’t. Welcome to the Purpose Pop-Up, a volunteer fair focused on one-time volunteer opportunities.
Local organizations will be here sharing information on episodic volunteer events—think painting a community mural on a Saturday morning, helping run a 5K fundraiser, or packing meals for an afternoon. Show up, make a massive impact, and walk away with zero ongoing obligations...or not - it's up to you!
Unlock your relationship radar: learn how to spot green & red flags while dating, and what consent actually looks like with sexual activity. Come for the chats, stay for the snacks. Fries will be provided*
*Limited number of fries will be available. First come first served!
NOTE: This session is also offered in a later Ed Session Block.
If life is like a box of chocolates, WOU is like a box of interlocking bricks. Come to our session to learn how to write your instruction manual, to build the YOU that you want to be.
Unlock your relationship radar: learn how to spot green & red flags while dating, and what consent actually looks like with sexual activity. Come for the chats, stay for the snacks. Fries will be provided*
*Limited number of fries will be available. First come first served!
Dew glistens on the summer grass as the sun breaks over the horizon. A new generation of heroes has arrived in the fabled town of Mönmyth! They have a long adventure ahead of them, but they must first devise their plan. Can these heroes craft a budget in time to face off against a sinister Golden Dragon?
Join us for a personal finance session taught in the stylings of a Dungeons and Dragons campaign. Improve your understanding of basic budgeting while partaking in a collaborative storytelling game. No prior experience in either is required.
Are you interested in a career in Business, Accounting, or Economics? Join us for a demonstration of what our faculty will be teaching! We offer careers in Marketing, Management, Finance, International Business, Accounting, Entrepreneurship, and more. We will host a mock class demonstrating what the class structure will look like and will provide interactive presentations to engage future students and their guests. This is a great opportunity to connect with faculty and staff within the Division of Business & Economics! We look forward to meeting the next generation of future business leaders.
Is cereal soup? Does pineapple belong on pizza? Should everyone have the right to vote? Is freedom of expression absolute? Learn how to engage in these conversations and many more as you navigate your time at WOU. You decide, this or that. You debate, topics of your choosing. You participate, we have giveaways. Let's engage in this interactive session to help us all better navigate conversations productively.
Anxious about Canvas? Join WOU’s Center for Teaching and Learning for a no-pressure, interactive introduction to Canvas. Try out different ways to interact with course content and receive hands-on support, so that you can feel confident when you step into the classroom. Win prizes, eat snacks.
So what's your major? - We've all been asked this question at least once by a well meaning adult (and maybe felt some fear in not having the "right" answer). However, roughly 80% of students change their majors at least once during their college careers. So why do we insist that students decide their major as soon as they step foot on campus? Here's a little secret...you don't have to know! Exploring different subjects before making any decisions about your major, especially if you're not sure what you want to do, is why we have the Exploratory Studies major option. In this session, we will play a round of "What's My Major?" Jeopardy to investigate the different job opportunities that come from a variety of different majors. The major and career pairings might surprise you and show you why being asked "what's your major?" isn't anything to fear!
Learn more about WOU as we walk and learn about three unique trees on our campus and the WOU Tree Campus effort, and help plant a new tree to build your legacy at WOU.
