Highlights from Welcome Week

The university community took time amidst the hustle and bustle of the new semester to welcome everyone to the start of classes. A record enrollment of approximately 42,000 students marked the start of the 2010-11 academic year.

“Week of Welcome,” as it was dubbed, started Aug. 20 with approximately 3,000 students moving into the residence halls at Modesto A. Maidique Campus (MMC) and Biscayne Bay Campus. After students settled in, faculty and staff visited with the new residents and offered their support as part of the annual “Knock, Knock Housing” event.

“This week helps newcomers transition into the university community,” said Chantel Anido, who organized the events of Week of Welcome. “It helps make FIU feel like their home away from home.”

On Sunday, Aug. 22, more than 2,000 freshmen packed the U.S. Century Bank Arena, celebrating the start of their college careers with their peers and their families at Freshmen Convocation.

At MMC, Panther Clash hosted a bash on the GC Ballroom lawn with Roary, student-athletes and giveaways. PG5 Market Station opened to rave reviews. And the Torch of Knowledge was lit at the steps of Primera Casa, following a procession at the seventh annual Trail of the Torch.

At Biscayne Bay Campus, the community enjoyed a BBQ and luau. On Friday, Aug. 27, students went kayaking on the bay, which Recreation offers once a month throughout the semester.

Check out highlights of some of the fun in the video below.