Weeks of Welcome

Surrounding the start of classes will be USF's Weeks of Welcome, or WOW.

  • The first two weeks of class are called Weeks of Welcome (WOW), packed with programs, events, and services.
  • WOW serves as an extended orientation and helps new students get involved, find community, and learn more about the opportunities and resources at USF.
  • For the most up-to-date WOW information and schedule, keep checking this webpage for details as we approach August!

    Monday, January 26 - Friday, January 30

    Event Time LOCATION Description
    The Learning, Writing, and Speaking Centers (LWSC) Walk-In Hours 9 AM - 5 PM Gleeson Library, Lower Level, Room G03 Learn more about academic support services at USF! LWSC Front Desk are available to answer questions and assist students with making appointments.
    CASA Registration Assistance 10 AM - 4 PM CASA Lobby, University Center, Third Floor Center for Academic and Student Achievement (CASA) is offering drop-in hours to all undergraduate students for general registration-related inquiries. Take advantage of this if you need help navigating registration or anything else registration-related.
    School of Management: Virtual Drop-In Advising 

    10 AM - 1 PM; 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM

    Zoom ID: somundergrad SOM students, we hope you had a wonderful winter break! Need to swap a class, check your waitlist status, or have questions about your schedule? We’re here to help! Join our virtual drop-in advising via Zoom during the first week of classes.

    Monday, January 26 - First Day of Classes (FDOC)

    Event Time LOCATION Description
    Yoga with Brian (weekly) 5 - 6:30 AM

    Zoom | Please email fitness@usfca.edu to request the class zoom link.

    Open to all levels, this class features intentional movement and simple pose breakdowns to support all bodies. Sequences build toward a peak pose with modifications offered throughout.

    Koret offers a range of group fitness classes for all fitness levels. All instructors are qualified to make modifications and progressions for all individuals. If you need us to make a special accommodation, please let us know by emailing fitness@usfca.edu.

    Welcome Back Fest

    11:30 AM - 12:50 PM University Center, Privett Plaza

    Join us at the Welcome Back Fest, where all students are invited to connect, foster conversations, build a sense of community, and explore on-campus resources and support. Don't miss the chance to snag some free swag and kick off the spring semester with excitement at USF!

    Tuesday, January 27

    Event Time LOCATION Description
    Pilates Mat with Rosemary (weekly) 8 - 9 AM Zoom | Please email fitness@usfca.edu to request the class zoom link.

    A mat-based class focused on pelvic stability, abdominal control, joint mobility, flexibility, and strengthening exercises.

    Koret offers a range of group fitness classes for all fitness levels. All instructors are qualified to make modifications and progressions for all individuals. If you need us to make a special accommodation, please let us know by emailing fitness@usfca.edu.

    Global Immersions Tabling

    11:45 AM - 12:45 PM University Center, Second Floor

    Stop by to learn about two summer immersion programs one to Italy and the other Alaska! You can earn 4 units in less than two weeks on these short-term programs.

    Join Step! Self-Transformation & Empowerment Program Info Session 12:30 - 1 PM Lo Schiavo, Getty Study

    What’s something you always say you’re going to do… but keep putting off? Over the next 12 weeks, STEP (Self-Transformation & Empowerment Program) helps you uncover what’s getting in the way of honoring your word to yourself — and prepares you for a breakthrough that leaves you feeling empowered, in action, and proud.

    Join us for the STEP Information Session to learn more about this powerful leadership and personal development experience. 

    • Applications OPEN January 26
    • Deadline: February 2, 2026

    Wednesday, January 28

    Event Time LOCATION Description
    Yoga & Strength with Andrea 9:30 - 10:30 AM Koret Rec Center, Boxing Room

    This class supports physical and mental relaxation through a series of postures that improve breathing, alignment, balance, strength, and flexibility. Open to all levels, please let the instructor know about any injuries or modifications needed.

    Koret offers a range of group fitness classes for all fitness levels. All instructors are qualified to make modifications and progressions for all individuals. If you need us to make a special accommodation, please let us know by emailing fitness@usfca.edu.

    SLE Spring Involvement Fair

    11:30 AM - 1 PM McLaren Complex

    Chat with representatives from 140+ student organizations to find out how you can get involved at USF. Different organizations will be available on each day!

    COFFEE HOUR: Global Studies Welcome Back Event 2 - 4 PM Kalmanovitz Hall, 213 Welcome Back Dons and Global Studies Meet and Greet - FREE coffee, tea, snacks for all. Meet our faculty, staff and students in our BA and MA programs and learn more about our curriculum. FREE Camping Coffee mugs for you, too. Just stop by, no RSVP!

    Thursday, January 29

    Event Time LOCATION Description
    Cycling with Ellen (weekly) 9 - 10 AM Koret Rec Center, Aerobics Room

    A high-intensity, upbeat cycling class designed to build endurance through HIIT and interval training. Expect everything from hill climbs to fast sprints, with options to adjust intensity. Suitable for all fitness levels!

    Koret offers a range of group fitness classes for all fitness levels. All instructors are qualified to make modifications and progressions for all individuals. If you need us to make a special accommodation, please let us know by emailing fitness@usfca.edu.

    SLE Spring Involvement Fair

    11:30 AM - 1 PM McLaren Complex

    Chat with representatives from 140+ student organizations to find out how you can get involved at USF. Different organizations will be available on each day!

    Honoring the Living Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 4:30 - 6 PM Gleeson Library, Atrium & Zoom

    Please join us for the USF Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration on Thursday, January 29th. USF students from the Marshall Riley Learning Living Community, the USF Debate Team, and the Leo T. McCarthy Center for Public Service and the Common Good will read and perform excerpts from King’s book of sermons, Strength to Love, along with an excerpt from his other works. 

    Please RSVP by Monday, January 26.

    Women's Basketball Game 6 PM War Memorial Gym at Sobrato Center

    Get ready to bring the energy and cheer on our powerhouse women’s basketball team as they take on Gonzaga! Come show your school pride and be part of the excitement, admission is free for all USF students.

    Friday, January 30

    Event Time LOCATION Description
    TRX with Emily (weekly) 12 - 12:45 PM Koret Rec Center, Boxing Room

    A high-intensity, interval-based class that builds cardio and muscular endurance using TRX, kettlebells, battle ropes, and other functional training tools to keep your heart rate up and challenge you throughout.

    Koret offers a range of group fitness classes for all fitness levels. All instructors are qualified to make modifications and progressions for all individuals. If you need us to make a special accommodation, please let us know by emailing fitness@usfca.edu.

    First USF Food Pantry

    2:30 - 4:30 PM Gleeson Library, Atrium 

    The USF Food Pantry is a completely free resource and community building opportunity for all currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate students. We provide students with non-perishables, bread, eggs, and produce for FREE! We also have live music, tabling organizations, and opportunities to connect with other students, faculty and staff! 

    First Climb: Rock Climbing Club 5:30 PM (meeting) Movement San Francisco | 924 Old Masion St. San Francisco, CA 94129 Welcome back RCC! Check in starts as early as 3 PM, with our attendance meeting happening at 5:30 PM. Be sure to message in the discord if you can’t make it! See you all there!

    Saturday, January 31

    Event Time LOCATION Description

    Vinyasa Yoga with Susan (weekly)

    9 - 10:15 AM Zoom | Please email fitness@usfca.edu to request the class zoom link.

    An energetic class with quick-flowing sequences to release stress, build strength, and improve flexibility. Open to all levels, with modifications available.

    Koret offers a range of group fitness classes for all fitness levels. All instructors are qualified to make modifications and progressions for all individuals. If you need us to make a special accommodation, please let us know by emailing fitness@usfca.edu.

    Men's Basketball Game 7 PM War Memorial Gym at Sobrato Center Get ready to bring the energy and cheer on our men’s basketball team as they take on Pacific! Come show your school pride and be part of the excitement, admission is free for all USF students.

    Sunday, February 1

    Event Time LOCATION Description

    Beginner Yoga with Susan (weekly)

    9 - 10:15 AM Zoom | Please email fitness@usfca.edu to request the class zoom link.

    Open to all levels, this class features intentional movement and simple pose breakdowns to support all bodies. Sequences build toward a peak pose with modifications offered throughout.

    Koret offers a range of group fitness classes for all fitness levels. All instructors are qualified to make modifications and progressions for all individuals. If you need us to make a special accommodation, please let us know by emailing fitness@usfca.edu.

    Monday, February 2

    Event Time LOCATION Description
    HIIT + Strength w/Carrie (weekly) 9:15 - 10 AM Zoom | Please email fitness@usfca.edu to request the class zoom link.

    This 45-minute virtual workout features high-intensity strength and cardio intervals, followed by strength training and a cooldown stretch. Use dumbbells or household items, modifications are encouraged, and you’ll want water and a towel nearby.

    Koret offers a range of group fitness classes for all fitness levels. All instructors are qualified to make modifications and progressions for all individuals. If you need us to make a special accommodation, please let us know by emailing fitness@usfca.edu.

    Cultural Centers' Open House

    5 - 6:30 PM University Center, 412

    Check out the Cultural Centers' lounges, which include a Gender & Sexuality Center and Intercultural Center. Connect with the student interns and get some free instant ramen!

    Study Abroad: Craft & Info Night 5 - 6 PM Cowell Hall, 106 More event details coming soon!

    Tuesday, February 3

    Event Time LOCATION Description

    Taste of Tuscany: A Global Immersion Info-Session

    11:45 AM - 12:45 PM Lone Mountain, Cafeteria 

    Come get a taste, literally, of this summer's Florence Immersion, USF Food and Culture in Italy. Join Dr. Amy Martin  to learn about the program while making your own fresh bruschetta (yes, you get to eat it too). Come hungry for food and adventure!

    Hatha Yoga with Megan (weekly) 6 - 7 PM Koret Rec Center, Aerobics Room

    Hatha Yoga is a slower-paced class focused on basic postures, breathing, and alignment to build strength, flexibility, and balance. Great for beginners and anyone looking for a steady, grounding practice.

    Koret offers a range of group fitness classes for all fitness levels. All instructors are qualified to make modifications and progressions for all individuals. If you need us to make a special accommodation, please let us know by emailing fitness@usfca.edu.

    Wednesday, February 4

    Event Time LOCATION Description
    Yoga & Strength with Carrie 9:15 - 10 AM Zoom | Please email fitness@usfca.edu to request the class zoom link.

    This class supports physical and mental relaxation through a series of postures that improve breathing, alignment, balance, strength, and flexibility. Open to all levels, please let the instructor know about any injuries or modifications needed.

    Koret offers a range of group fitness classes for all fitness levels. All instructors are qualified to make modifications and progressions for all individuals. If you need us to make a special accommodation, please let us know by emailing fitness@usfca.edu.

    First USF Food Pantry

    2:30 - 4:30 PM Gleeson Library, Atrium

    The USF Food Pantry is a completely free resource and community building opportunity for all currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate students. We provide students with non-perishables, bread, eggs, and produce for FREE! We also have live music, tabling organizations, and opportunities to connect with other students, faculty and staff! 

    Men's Basketball Game 7 PM War Memorial Gym at Sobrato Center

    Get ready to bring the energy and cheer on our men’s basketball team as they take on LMU! Come show your school pride and be part of the excitement, admission is free for all USF students.

    Thursday, February 5

    Event Time LOCATION Description

    Study Abroad: Gilman Scholarship Workshop

    11:30 AM - 12:45 PM University Center, 503

    More event details coming soon!

    Black Joy 5 - 8 PM McLaren Complex More event details coming soon!
    Zumba with Maggie (weekly) 5:15 - 6 PM Koret Rec Center, Aerobics Room

    A fun, high-energy dance class that boosts your heart rate, coordination, and endurance with easy-to-follow moves for all fitness levels. Bring a towel and water, and come ready to dance! 

    Koret offers a range of group fitness classes for all fitness levels. All instructors are qualified to make modifications and progressions for all individuals. If you need us to make a special accommodation, please let us know by emailing fitness@usfca.edu.

    Friday, February 6

    Event Time LOCATION Description

    Black History Month: First Fridays Trip

    5 PM Location information coming soon!

    More event details coming soon!

    Yoga with Brian (weekly) 9 - 10:30 PM Zoom | Please email fitness@usfca.edu to request the class zoom link.

    Open to all levels, this class features intentional movement and simple pose breakdowns to support all bodies. Sequences build toward a peak pose with modifications offered throughout.

    Koret offers a range of group fitness classes for all fitness levels. All instructors are qualified to make modifications and progressions for all individuals. If you need us to make a special accommodation, please let us know by emailing fitness@usfca.edu.

    Saturday, February 7

    Event Time LOCATION Description
    Cycling with Ellen (weekly) 9 - 10 AM Koret Rec Center, Aerobics Room

    A high-intensity, upbeat cycling class designed to build endurance through HIIT and interval training. Expect everything from hill climbs to fast sprints, with options to adjust intensity. Suitable for all fitness levels!

    Koret offers a range of group fitness classes for all fitness levels. All instructors are qualified to make modifications and progressions for all individuals. If you need us to make a special accommodation, please let us know by emailing fitness@usfca.edu.

    Lunar New Year Market

    12 - 4 PM Bloomhouse EPA | 2555 Pulgas Ave, East Palo Alto CA 94303

    What better way to celebrate the #lunarnewyear than with friends? Come on out next month to bring in the year of the horse with your friends at our Lunar New Year Market

    Women's Basketball Game 2 PM War Memorial Gym at Sobrato Center

    Get ready to bring the energy and cheer on our women’s basketball team as they take on Saint Mary's! Come show your school pride and be part of the excitement, admission is free for all USF students.

    Sunday, February 8

    Event Time LOCATION Description

    Beginner Yoga with Susan (weekly)

    9 - 10:15 AM Zoom | Please email fitness@usfca.edu to request the class zoom link.

    Open to all levels, this class features intentional movement and simple pose breakdowns to support all bodies. Sequences build toward a peak pose with modifications offered throughout.

    Koret offers a range of group fitness classes for all fitness levels. All instructors are qualified to make modifications and progressions for all individuals. If you need us to make a special accommodation, please let us know by emailing fitness@usfca.edu.

    Monday, February 9

    Event Time LOCATION Description

    Art Hour: Drawing Perspective

    12 - 1:30 PM Gleeson Library, Thacher Gallery

    Do you admire landscape and architectural drawings? Do you enjoy drawing locations? Join us for a few fun and easy lessons on drawing perspective by current Architecture student Bruce Dowd. Drop by for a few minutes or come for the entire time. Supplies will be provided. Presented in conjunction with Piranesi's Rome and the Classical Imaginary on view in Thacher Gallery through Feb. 15, 2026.

    Bruce Dowd is a junior in USF’s architecture program. He has been drawing in pen and pencil for most of his life. When he’s not drawing, he enjoys playing soccer and learning how to surf.


    Certain events will be photographed and/or video recorded for archival, educational, and related promotional purposes. By attending or participating in this event, you grant USF the full unrestricted rights to your photograph, voice and likeness in any manner or media whatsoever worldwide for educational marketing purposes. If you do not wish to be photographed or video recorded, please inform the camera person at the start of each event.