Falcon Days are underway, welcoming the next generation of Falcons as they prepare for life on campus.
Held throughout June and July, Falcon Days give first-year students an early look at the people, places and resources that will shape their college experience. Families spend the day learning about academics, student life, residence halls, campus support services and the faith-centered community that awaits them in the fall.
“These days are filled with excitement and are always fun for all involved,” said Elizabeth Polzin, EdD, vice president of student success and associate professor of education. “Our goal is to answer questions families may have, get them excited about arriving to campus in the fall, and help them understand what life as a Falcon may look like at CUW.”
Building excitement before move-in day
The first Falcon Day reached capacity, with 100 families registered to attend. The strong response reflects the anticipation many incoming students and families feel as they prepare for the transition to college life.
“We love the fun vibes and helping students go from uncertain, unfamiliar, maybe a little nervous to excited,” said Kara Janowski, MA, director of student engagement. “That’s really what Falcon Day is all about.”
Additional Falcon Days will take place on:
- Wednesday, June 10
- Monday, June 15
- Friday, June 26
- Friday, July 10
At these events, students and families hear from Campus Ministry, faculty, advisors and university leaders. They also explore campus resources and tour residence halls. For many families, Falcon Days provide an early glimpse of what life at Concordia will be like.
Faculty members from each school join families for lunch during the day. The informal gathering allows parents to ask questions about academic programs and connect directly with faculty before the semester begins.
“When incoming students and their families enter our campus, we want to cultivate the feeling of being welcomed home,” said Leah Flolo, coordinator of student activities and orientation. “College is a huge transition for both students and their families, so our goal is to make that transition feel natural and exciting.”
What does a Falcon Day look like?
Families arrive on campus in the morning for student-led tours, advising sessions and opportunities to connect with faculty, staff and fellow Falcons.
A typical Falcon Day includes:
- Welcome sessions and advising.
- A buffet-style lunch with faculty and staff.
- Guided residence hall tours.
- Student activities led by orientation leaders.
- Opportunities to learn more about academics, financial aid and campus life.
Commuter students and their families can also participate in specialized sessions and campus tours tailored to their experience.
Read last year’s article, “Falcon Days help new students take flight,” for additional information!
Photo gallery: A first look at Falcon life
For many incoming students and families, Falcon Day is more than an orientation event. It is one of their first opportunities to picture what everyday campus life might look and feel like.
Through conversations with faculty and staff, residence hall visits and interactions with future classmates, students begin to see themselves as part of the Concordia community.
The photo gallery below captures some of those moments across campus today.
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Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world.