Two weeks of back-to-back events have come to an end as Wichita State concludes Welcomefest, a fun way of welcoming students back to campus. The events provide inexpensive ways for students to get involved and learn about the services WSU offers.

Director of Student Involvement Nancy Loosle says that the feedback has been positive. The first two weeks of school are often easier for students in regard to homework, and Welcomefest events provide ways to fill their free time.

“All these events are really about welcoming students back to campus and also showing them what’s available,” says Loosle. “We’re connecting and building community.”

Welcomefest can seem overwhelming for some students, but it’s important for them to make connections on campus before they get bogged down with homework, says Loosle.

“They have a little more time to socialize and interact, to create those relationships and friendships that are going to help them throughout the year and throughout their college career,” says Loosle, adding events such as Welcomefest are vital to creating an active campus culture.

Some Welcomefest events draw more than 1,000 students, such as the Back to School Bash, an on-campus celebration with inflatables, live music, food, games and prizes that was started three years ago.

“Students have enjoyed activities, and they like that there’s something to do,” says Loosle.

While not every event draws crowds as large as the Back to School Bash, the average for attendance is still 300-400 students per event. The Student Activity Council’s fall road trip to Worlds of Fun, which was the final Welcomefest event, filled up within the first few days of registration.

SAC member Jacy Beck is excited about the large turnout at events.

“We’ve been planning all summer, and everything exceeded our expectations,” says Beck.

The planning of events for Welcomefest is designed to accommodate students’ schedules, having events at various times of the day.

Community Service Board (CSB) member Li Wang says it’s easy to get students excited about free T-shirts and cupcakes, but Welcomefest is also a great way for new students to find their groove.

Fellow CSB member Jake Enz agrees, saying that Welcomefest can benefit students beyond their four years of college.

“Welcomefest is really cool. It introduces students to all the ways they can expand and build their resumes,” says Enz.

Loosle reminds students to continue coming to campus events throughout the year. Most of the Student Involvement events are free to WSU students with a Shocker ID.

“With school getting busier and homework coming, it’s important to make sure they keep some balance in their lives.”