Rutgers–Camden Welcome Experience

Make the Most of Your Rutgers–Camden Welcome Experience

All students—returning, first-year, and transfer—are encouraged to participate in the wide range of shared experiences that bring the campus community together. These include signature events, social programs, campus traditions, athletic competitions, and opportunities to explore Camden and the surrounding region. These experiences are central to building connections across class years and helping every student feel part of the Scarlet Raptor community. Some of these events may require advance registration due to space or transportation needs, so students are encouraged to review details and sign up where indicated.

Students make new friends on the campus quad

Exclusively for First-Year and Transfer Students

In addition, first-year and transfer students will find a set of programs created specifically to support their transition to Rutgers–Camden. These include orientation sessions, academic and success workshops, and early connection opportunities with peers, faculty, and campus resources. These programs are designed to provide a strong foundation, helping new students navigate campus and feel confident as they begin.

New students meet on the campus quad

Just Drop In

Throughout the Welcome Experience, students will also find open or drop-in opportunities available to everyone. These flexible experiences allow students to explore at their own pace, whether that means stopping by an event between classes, joining a campus activity spontaneously, or taking advantage of trips, resources, and informal gathering spaces. No registration is required for these activities—students can simply attend as their schedule allows.

Two new students enjoy the Welcome Experience at Rutgers–Camden
Students make new friends on the campus quad
New students meet on the campus quad
Two new students enjoy the Welcome Experience at Rutgers–Camden

Rutgers–Camden Welcome Experience

August 27 – September 12

First-Year & Transfer Student Experiences (Designed for New Students)

  • Move-In & Supporter Programming
  • Orientation (Make-Up, Transfer, International)
  • First-Year Success Workshops
  • Meet Me at the Bridge (First-Year Connect)
  • First-Year Friday Kickoff
  • College/School Meetings
  • Veterans Welcome
  • Convocation–style Candle Event

All Students (Returning, First-Year, and Transfer)

  • Scarlet Raptor Block Party
  • First-Gen Block Party
  • Bridge Welcome Back Event
  • Athletics Events (Soccer, Tennis, Volleyball)
  • Camden Cool Nights Festival & Movie Night
  • Movie Night, Yoga, Paint & Sip
  • Dave & Buster’s Trip
  • Cultural Kickback
  • Excursions & Local Trips

Open Campus Experiences (Optional/Drop-In for All Students)

  • Supply Trips (Target, IKEA, grocery runs)
  • Rutgers Recommendations: Choose Your Own Adventure
  • Open for Business / Campus Partner Programs
  • Daytime excursions

Your Schedule At-A-Glance

Friday, August 28

First-Year & Transfer Students

  • Make-Up Orientation
  • Transfer Orientation
  • First-Year Success Workshop
  • Meet Me at the Bridge (First-Year Connect)

All Students (Returning, First-Year, and Transfer)

  • Raptor Block Party
  • Athletics Programs – “RU Moving”

Open Activities (All Students)

  • Campus Partner Programs

Saturday, August 29

All Students (Returning, First-Year, and Transfer)

  • Camden Cool Nights Festival & Movie
  • Dave & Buster’s Trip

Open Activities (All Students)

  • Local Excursions (Philadelphia / South Jersey)
  • Supply Trips

Monday, August 31

First-Year & Transfer Students

  • International Student Orientation
  • Veterans Welcome
  • College/School Meetings

Open Activities (All Students)

  • Open for Business programming

September 1–12 
The Experience Continues!

All Students (Returning, First-Year, and Transfer)

  • First-Gen Block Party
  • Bridge Welcome Back
  • Athletics Games (throughout the week)
  • First-Year Friday (continuing with inclusive invitations)