We're so excited you're coming to Ohio Wesleyan! We're here to support you through the transition from high school to college. Our programs—Bishop Beginning, Move-In Day, and Camp Oh-Wooo—will prepare you for your next four years.
SAVE THE DATE – Monday, July 13 or Monday, July 20, 2026! Bishop Beginning events are designed specifically for deposited students and families to ensure a smooth transition into campus life. You'll visit first-year residence halls (& get measurements!), meet with campus offices about finances and classes, and have a chance to walk your fall semester schedule. Most importantly, you'll get to know future classmates and your new college town!
WELCOME NEW STUDENTS – Thursday, August 20, 2026! Move-In Day for most new OWU students takes place on August 20. After walking through the New Student Check-In process, you'll unpack in your new room, attend the Bishop Welcome event, and experience Opening Convocation Ceremony with all your classmates and OWU faculty.
OPENING CONVOCATION CEREMONY – Thursday, August 20, 2026 from 4-5pm! OWU faculty and staff join incoming students, their parents, and families to formally celebrate the arrival of new students and kick off the academic year. Following the Ceremony, students will carry their class banner and follow the Bishop on their "First Lap." The First Lap involves an informal march of the incoming class around the academic quad to the center of campus. Students will be clapped and celebrated as they enter the welcome tunnel at the start of their first academic semester.
ORIENTATION ADVENTURES – Friday, August 21-23, 2026! Camp Oh-Wooo continues your orientation experience after you move in. The three camp tracks include Challenge, Wilderness, and Service. Camp Oh-Wooo is a unique opportunity to build community, learn about OWU's traditions and expectations, and ease the transition to college. Fall NCAA-sanctioned athletes will continue with pre-season schedules and join their classmates for activities August 24-25.
WELCOME WEEK – Monday-Friday, August 25-29, 2026! After Camp Oh-Wooo, first-year students continue orientation through community-building events with the entire campus! Past events included Late Night at Smith, outdoor movies, gatherings, student involvement fair, and our favorite campus tradition, Day on the JAY! Look for Welcome Week Instagram updates from Campus Programming Board.