UNM Welcome Back Days 2025 is set for Aug. 15-22

The University of New Mexico Student Activities Center has welcomed new and returning students to campus every fall semester since the 1970s.

Welcome Back Days, a longstanding UNM tradition, is a week-long series of celebrations and informational booths that kick off the fall semester, helping new students get familiar with the campus and connect with UNM resources. It also gives returning students and community members a chance to reconnect and ease back into the rhythm of the semester.

"Welcome Back Days is such an important tradition at UNM," said Megann Roszak, the Student Activities advisor who oversees the annual event. "Students get to connect with departments, resource centers and student organizations in a really approachable and welcoming environment. Whether you're new or returning, Welcome Back Days is all about connection, support and belonging."

Known as the last great event of the summer, students can enjoy themselves, connect with classmates, and learn about UNM in a fun and memorable way. Free music, entertainment, and food are available each day starting at noon.

Registration is now open for any department or student organization interested in participating. The deadline to sign up is Aug. 17.

Friday Night Live

Friday, Aug. 15 | 7-10 p.m. | Student Union Building

Join hundreds of UNM students at the SUB for the semester kick-off event, which features free food, laser tag, photo booths, dancing, Henna body art, and the chance to learn about various student organizations.

First Year Family Day & Class Crawl

Sunday, Aug. 17 | 4 p.m. | Popejoy Hall

Join President Stokes and the first-year class for convocation at Popejoy Hall, where first-year students will be officially welcomed to the Pack. Find more information about convocation at the first-year family day events webpage.

Immediately after convocation, join the annual class crawl event to learn where your classes are located, making sure you're not lost on your first day!

Movie on the Field

Sunday, Aug. 17 | 8 p.m. | Johnson Field

Watch the summer movie hit Thunderbolts drive-in style on Johnson Field. This is a free event. Bring a blanket and enjoy an outdoor movie with friends and family.

Watch for an extra free screening on Wednesday in the SUB Theater. Check the schedule on the SUB Theater website.

President's Ice Cream Social and Department Day

Monday, Aug. 18 | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.| Duck Pond

To kick off the first day of the semester, meet UNM President Stokes and University Administrators. Explore majors, academic programs, UNM resources and student support programs. Students can learn about tools and strategies for succeeding in college and receive some free swag, too.

Safety, Health & Wellness Day

Tuesday, Aug. 19 | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Duck Pond and SUB Mall

Learn about recreational programs, safety practices, and healthy food options at booths from UNM police, Student Health and Counseling, Rec Services, and other informational booths. Enjoy free watermelon.

Campus Communities Day

Wednesday, Aug. 20 | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Duck Pond and SUB

Students can start building their community on campus. They can explore the on-campus resource center and connect with affinity-based student organizations, while enjoying free green chile stew, live music, and Pepsi beginning at noon.

At 6 p.m., catch the summer hit movie Thunderbolts at the SUB Theater for free! Admission to all mid-week movies comes with free concessions.

North Campus Welcome Back Day

Wednesday, Aug. 20 | 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. | BMSB/Nursing & Pharmacy Bldg Plaza

North Campus departments and resource centers will have informational booths set up at the Plaza with free watermelon and Pepsi products for students to learn about everything North Campus offers.

Student Organization Day

Thursday, Aug. 21 | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Duck Pond

Student leaders will set up informational booths along the Duck Pond to talk with both new and returning students. Students can learn how to get involved with the 325+ student-run organizations at UNM. Enjoy live music and free Dion's Pizza and Pepsi starting at noon.

Community Service & Campus Employment Day

Friday, Aug. 22 | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Duck Pond

Students interested in campus jobs or ways to get involved with the Lobo community can learn which departments are hiring and which community agencies are recruiting volunteers. The UNM Young Alumni Board and Alumni Association will offer free coffee and donuts starting at 9 a.m.

For more information, visit the SAC Welcome Back Days webpage or call the office at 505-277-4706.