Full Breakdown
UCLA Welcomes New Students with Exciting Events and Activities
9/20/2025, 2:37:18 PM
Overview of Move-In and Welcome Events
UCLA is currently in the midst of its annual move-in period, welcoming over 15,000 new and returning students to campus. This year's cohort includes approximately 6,500 first-year students and 3,900 new transfer students, with around 30% of these first-years being the first in their families to pursue a four-year degree. The move-in process involves around 800 volunteers assisting students as they transport their belongings to residence halls, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with excitement and anticipation.
True Bruin Welcome Week Activities
The True Bruin Welcome Week, a weeklong series of over 120 events, is set to commence with a new student welcome ceremony featuring Chancellor Julio Frenk on September 21. The festivities will include a block party in Westwood Village, complete with DJs, food vendors, and a Ferris wheel, culminating in the Bruin Bash, a nighttime festival and concert at the Los Angeles Tennis Center.
Throughout the week, students will have opportunities to engage with more than 500 clubs and organizations during the Enormous Activities Fair, meet student-athletes at Champed Up, and participate in an academic open house to explore departmental offerings and connect with faculty. The week will also emphasize inclusivity, with events tailored for UCLA's diverse student communities.
Community Engagement and Volunteer Day
The welcome activities will conclude on September 27 with UCLA's annual Volunteer Day, where students, faculty, staff, and alumni will participate in community service projects across Los Angeles and beyond. This initiative aims to foster a sense of community and encourage students to give back to their new environment.
Perspectives from New Students and Ambassadors
New students like Parth Ganga express a mix of excitement and nervousness about starting their academic journey. True Bruin Ambassadors, such as India Cathcart and Brinaye Grant, highlight the importance of creating a welcoming environment for newcomers, emphasizing the joy of seeing first-years experience campus life for the first time.
Broader Implications for UCLA
The influx of new students and the accompanying events reflect UCLA's commitment to fostering a supportive and engaging campus culture. With a significant number of first-generation college students, these initiatives are crucial for helping students navigate their new environment and build connections that will enhance their university experience.
Official Statements & Responses
Chancellor Julio Frenk has expressed enthusiasm for the incoming class, noting the importance of community-building activities in helping students feel at home. The university's focus on inclusivity and support is evident in the wide range of events planned for the welcome week.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m a little nervous to start moving in, to start a new journey,” — Parth Ganga, First-Year Student
- “You can see it in their faces, especially when they step on campus and there’s that factor of ‘Wow, I’m really here.’” — India Cathcart, True Bruin Ambassador
- “We want to create that space — to make it feel like it’s a second home.” — Brinaye Grant, True Bruin Ambassador
This comprehensive welcome initiative not only marks the beginning of the academic year but also sets the tone for a supportive and engaging community at UCLA.
