August 16-30, 2025
Weeks of Welcome (WOW) is designed to celebrate the start of a new term, welcome the USA community back to campus, and connect students to the people, places, and groups that drive relationships and belonging at South. We have designed a schedule full of academic and social events to highlight our exceptional campus community.
Our goal is to help you get connected and make sure your time at South is phenomenal. You will have the opportunity to meet students across a wide range of areas, learn about student organizations, and discover opportunities to connect with faculty in learning experiences ranging from the classroom to the Gulf of Mexico. We look forward to meeting you at one of these opening events. Welcome to South Alabama!
Things to do during Weeks of Welcome
Jaguar Productions and Campus Recreation and Wellness invite you to kick off your college experience at First Night: Rock the Rec! After an eventful day of moving into your residence hall, celebrate by jumping into the pool, finding new friends at dodgeball, or trying a local food truck.
6-9 pm
College of Engineering Welcome Station
The College of Engineering is rolling out the red carpet for our #EngineeringJags
with fresh donuts, music, and nothing but good vibes. Swing by the West entrance of
Shelby Hall and help us kick off the semester the right way. We can’t wait to welcome
you back!
Shelby Hall West Entrance
8-10 am
Let the good times roar! Join us at the Mitchell Center as we kick off the new academic school year in true Mobile style, with a Mardi Gras-themed Convocation celebration like no other. This high-energy tradition welcomes new and returning students with a morning full of South spirit, featuring show-stopping performances by the Jaguar Marching Band, South Alabama Cheerleaders, and appearances from our beloved mascots Southpaw and Miss Pawla. And that’s not all, we’re bringing the festive flair of Mardi Gras to campus with vibrant visuals, lively music, and a surprise guest you won’t want to miss.
11 am - Noon
Southbound Open House
Join your Southbound Orientation Leaders for our Open House immediately following
Convocation at the Mobile Townhouse. This is your chance to cool off, get your questions
answered, find your classes, and connect with fellow incoming Jags before the first
day of class kicks off. We’re here to help you feel confident and prepared as you
start your South journey. Refreshments will be available while they last!
Mobile Townhouse
12:30-2 pm
College of Arts and Sciences Open House
Chill out with the College of Arts and Sciences at our Ice Cream Social in the Humanities
Building Courtyard! While you’re cruising through your schedule, swing by any of our
open house spots. Whether it’s your major, your minor, or just a department that sparks
your curiosity. Meet the people behind the scenes, get the inside scoop, and let us
help you track down your fall classes.
Humanities Courtyard and all A&S Departments
12:30-2:30 pm
Fraternity and Sorority Life Cookout
Are you curious about Greek life? Swing by the FSL Cookout for a chill hangout where
you can meet members from all the fraternities and sororities, ask anything you want,
and catch the true vibe of Fraternity and Sorority Life at South. We’re talking about
free food, great music, games, and nonstop good energy. No stress, just good times
and new connections. Bring your crew and come through!
Student Center Amphitheater
1-4 pm
WOW Help Tents
Got questions about your schedule or where to find campus resources? Navigating your
first semester as a Jag? Swing by our Help Tent and connect with friendly fellow Jags
ready to guide you, share tips, and help you make your best start! Don’t miss out
on making connections and getting the support you need.
Various Locations
7:30 am-3:30 pm
College of Engineering Welcome Station
The College of Engineering is rolling out the red carpet for our #EngineeringJags
with fresh donuts, music, and nothing but good vibes. Swing by the West entrance of
Shelby Hall and help us kick off the semester the right way. We can’t wait to welcome
you back!
Shelby Hall West Entrance
7:30 am-3:30 pm
Doughnuts in the Communication Department
Swing by the Communication Department Lobby for a sweet start to Fall 2025! Grab some
delicious doughnuts while mingling with faculty and fellow students. Discover the
exciting opportunities across the four Communication majors and kick off your semester
fueled with great vibes and tasty treats!
Communication Building Lobby
9-11 am
Biomedical Library Pop-Up
Ready to conquer your next assignment or just curious about the Biomedical Library?
Swing by our table and meet your go-to library experts. Discover powerful resources,
get personalized help from your liaison, and unlock tips to make your research a breeze.
Arrive early to snag a cool giveaway!
HAHN Lobby
10 am-1 pm
Pizza and Prints
Get ready for Pizza and Prints, the ultimate mixer hosted by the Political Science
and Criminal Justice Department! Dive into a dynamic evening where you’ll connect
with passionate faculty and industry pros, uncover exciting career paths, and fuel
up with delicious pizza. Whether you're plotting your future or just looking for a
good time, this event packs networking, insights, and fun all in one slice.
Student Center Terrace
10 am-1 pm
World Cafe
Swing by the Language Resource Center for a cozy coffee break with snacks! Sip, snack,
and sharpen your skills by learning how to order coffee in multiple languages from
around the world. It’s a global coffee experience you don’t want to miss.
HUMB 337
11 am-12:30 pm
CEADR Ice Cream Social
Come chill out with CEADR! Beat the heat and kick off the semester right at CEADR’s
Ice Cream Social! Swing by for free ice cream, sweet CEADR swag, and a chance to connect
with our awesome community. Whether you’re new to campus or just craving a cool treat,
this is the perfect midday break you don’t want to miss!
Student Center Mall
11 am-1 pm
CNAH Dessert with Deans
Got a sweet tooth and big dreams? Join the College of Nursing and the College of Allied
Health Professions for a relaxed evening of desserts, conversation, and connection.
Whether you’re just starting out or already finding your groove, this is your chance
to meet the deans, chat with college leaders, and vibe with fellow students. Come
for the sweets, stay for the insight, support, and community.
Health Science Lobby
2-3 pm
To celebrate your first day of class, join Jaguar Productions for a fun and relaxing night at Hancock Whitney Stadium. Immediately following the aerial photo on the field, grab a spot on the turf to watch a movie as the sun sets on your favorite gameday destination. Don't forget your blankets and chairs for the ultimate movie-watching experience! For more information and to keep up with our events all year long, follow @JPSouthAL on Instagram!
6-9 pm
Got questions about your schedule or where to find campus resources? Navigating your first semester as a Jag? Swing by our Help Tent and connect with friendly fellow Jags ready to guide you, share tips, and help you make your best start! Don’t miss out on making connections and getting the support you need.
7:30 am-3:30 pm
Doughnuts in the Communication Department
Swing by the Communication Department Lobby for a sweet start to Fall 2025! Grab some
delicious doughnuts while mingling with faculty and fellow students. Discover the
exciting opportunities across the four Communication majors and kick off your semester
fueled with great vibes and tasty treats!
Communication Building Lobby
9-11 am
Biomedical Library Pop-Up
Ready to conquer your next assignment or just curious about the Biomedical Library?
Swing by our table and meet your go-to library experts. Discover powerful resources,
get personalized help from your liaison, and unlock tips to make your research a breeze.
Arrive early to snag a cool giveaway!
HAHN Lobby
10 am-1 pm
World Cafe
Swing by the Language Resource Center for a cozy coffee break with snacks! Sip, snack,
and sharpen your skills by learning how to order coffee in multiple languages from
around the world. It’s a global coffee experience you don’t want to miss.
HUMB 337
11 am-12:30 pm
Craft Your Carry-On with Global USA
Whether you're strutting through the airport or cruising the grocery aisle, your custom-designed
tote is guaranteed to make a statement. Swing by to create your own one-of-a-kind
canvas tote using paint, markers, patches, and more! While you design, take your taste
buds on a trip with a global snack tasting, and learn how Global USA can take you
places, too.
Meisler Hall, Second Floor
11 am-1 pm
Lead The Way: Snacks and Success
Kick off your year with purpose, new connections, and tasty treats! Swing by the NSLS
table during Weeks of Welcome to snag some snacks, meet powerful student leaders,
and discover how The National Society of Leadership and Success can fuel your journey
to unlocking your full potential. Don’t just start the semester, own it!
Student Center Mall
11 am-2 pm
Jag Safe: Campus Self-Defense Workshop
Step into your strength and take control of your safety in this hands-on, interactive
workshop designed just for Jaguars like you. Learn real-world skills and practical
techniques to boost your confidence, sharpen your awareness, and protect yourself
in any situation. Guided by expert certified instructors, you’ll dive into powerful
demos and training on situational awareness, physical self-defense moves, and setting
personal boundaries. Whether you want to confidently own your walk across campus or
be ready to support your friends, this workshop is your ticket to feeling unstoppable.
Come ready to move, learn, and leave empowered.
Student Center Ballroom
4-5:30 pm
Field Night with Dayspring U
Join Dayspring U for Field Night at the Intramural Fields! It will be an evening packed
with games, prizes, and nonstop fun under the stars! Whether you’re ready to compete,
cheer on your friends, or just hang out and vibe, there’s something for everyone.
From classic field games to surprise challenges, you’ll have plenty of chances to
make some great memories.
Intramural Fields
7-9 pm
Biomedical Library Pop-Up
Ready to conquer your next assignment or just curious about the Biomedical Library?
Swing by our table and meet your go-to library experts. Discover powerful resources,
get personalized help from your liaison, and unlock tips to make your research a breeze.
Arrive early to snag a cool giveaway!
HAHN Lobby
10 am-1 pm
OMS Popsicle Social
Cool off and chill out with the Office of Military Services at the Student Center
Amphitheatre breezeway for a refreshing popsicle social that’s the ultimate way to
beat the heat!
Student Center Amphitheater Breezeway
2-3:30 pm
CEPS Lawn Games
Chill, play, and win with CEPS! Swing by the lawn for an afternoon of fun in the sun
with the College of Education and Professional Studies! We’re talking lawn games,
icy popsicles, awesome prizes, and plenty of good vibes. Whether you’re here to compete,
chill out, or just snag a treat, there’s something for everyone.
HKS Lawn
2-4 pm
CEPS Graduate Student Welcome
Kick off your grad school journey with good food, great people, and even better advice!
Join faculty and fellow graduate students from the College of Education and Professional
Studies as we welcome our newest grad students. Mingle, munch, and make connections
while getting real insights on how to thrive in graduate school, both in and out of
the classroom. Let’s start strong, together.
UCOM 3212
5:30-7 pm
Get ready for an epic night with the School of Computing’s student organizations. Dive into a world of video games, board games, and nonstop fun. Bring your game face and fuel up with tasty snacks. Don’t miss out, let’s level up together!
5:30-8 pm
Biomedical Library Pop-Up
Ready to conquer your next assignment or just curious about the Biomedical Library?
Swing by our table and meet your go-to library experts. Discover powerful resources,
get personalized help from your liaison, and unlock tips to make your research a breeze.
Arrive early to snag a cool giveaway!
HAHN Lobby
10 am-1 pm
Sundaes with SSoMES
Sundaes with SSoMES is back and better than ever! Start the fall semester off right
with cool treats and even cooler company. Join the Stokes School of Marine and Environmental
Sciences for an afternoon of ice cream, creativity, and connection. Reconnect with
classmates, meet new faces, and get the inside scoop on what’s coming up this semester.
We’re serving up more than just sundaes. Enjoy hands-on crafts, exciting giveaways,
and a few sweet surprises along the way. Whether you're a seasoned Jag or just diving
into the program, this laid-back kickoff is the perfect way to mix, mingle, and make
the most of your start to the year. Bring your appetite, your curiosity, and your
friends. We can’t wait to see you there!
Education and Outreach Building, First Floor
11:30 am-1:30 pm
Kick off the semester in style at the Academic Services Carnival, hosted by the Office of Military Services, Second Year Experience, Student Academic Success, the Math Lab, Academic Advising and Transfer Services, and Career Development! This high-energy, drop-in event is your one-stop shop for campus connections, academic support, and a whole lot of fun. Whether you're looking for tips, treats, or just a good time between classes, we've got you covered. There will be ice cream, drinks, crafts, interactive games, and tons of giveaways. Come for the support, stay for the good time.
Noon-2 pm
Get ready to let the paint fly in the most chaotic, colorful dodgeball game on campus. Dodge splatter-loaded dodgeballs, duck the drips, and dive into a wild mess of paint and fun. Wear white if you dare, as this is your chance to turn your t-shirt into a work of art. Come for the chaos, stay for the memories. Let’s get messy!
7-8:30 pm
Swing by the Study Abroad Office and kickstart your global journey! Meet the team and chat with Study Abroad Ambassadors who’ve been there, done that, and want to help you do it too. Discover where your classroom could be next semester.
1-4 pm
SGA General Body Meeting
The Student Government Association is the voice and governing body of the students
at South. Join them for their first general body meeting of the semester and find
out how you can enhance the student experience by getting involved in SGA.
Student Center Ballroom
7 pm
With over 270+ student organizations at South, this is your chance to meet new people, discover your passions, and learn how to get plugged into campus life. From cultural orgs and service groups to leadership opportunities and everything in between, there’s something for everyone! Additionally, Career Development will host a Part-Time Job Fair during this time. This is where you can meet departments and local employers offering flexible, student-friendly part-time jobs.
11am- 2 pm
First Year Council Open House
Kick off your college journey with the First Year Council Open House! Discover how you can jump in, make an impact, and connect with fellow first-year students. Hear firsthand stories from former FYC members about their unforgettable experiences. Get all the details on membership perks, requirements, and application deadlines. Plus, enjoy some tasty refreshments while you mingle. Your first step to leadership starts here!
Student Center Terrace
5-7 pm
Transfer T-shirt Swap
Did you just transfer to South? We are pumped to have you join the Jaguar family! As part of Weeks of Welcome, swing by our Transfer T-Shirt Swap. Bring a shirt from your previous school and swap it for fresh USA gear, because you’re officially a Jag now. While you're there, meet our awesome Transfer Ambassadors, connect with other new transfers, and find out how to get involved with Tau Sigma, the national honor society just for transfer students. It’s a new campus, a new t-shirt, and a new start. Let’s do this.
Student Center Mall
8:30 am-Noon
Biomedical Library Pop-Up
Ready to conquer your next assignment or just curious about the Biomedical Library? Swing by our table and meet your go-to library experts. Discover powerful resources, get personalized help from your liaison, and unlock tips to make your research a breeze. Arrive early to snag a cool giveaway!
HAHN Lobby
10 am-1 pm
English Soapbox Event: Radical Readings
Ready to Get Lit(erary)? Join the English Department for a bold and brainy kickoff to the semester! Come fuel your mind and your sweet tooth with soda, cookies, candy, and radical reads. Faculty and students will share their favorite rebellious, thought-provoking, and downright powerful literary passages. Come for the snacks, stay for the words that move the world.
HUMB Courtyard
11 am-12:30 pm
Kick off your college journey with the First Year Council Open House! Discover how you can jump in, make an impact, and connect with fellow first-year students. Hear firsthand stories from former FYC members about their unforgettable experiences. Get all the details on membership perks, requirements, and application deadlines. Plus, enjoy some tasty refreshments while you mingle. Your first step to leadership starts here!
5-7 pm
Biomedical Library Pop-Up
Ready to conquer your next assignment or just curious about the Biomedical Library? Swing by our table and meet your go-to library experts. Discover powerful resources, get personalized help from your liaison, and unlock tips to make your research a breeze. Arrive early to snag a cool giveaway!
HAHN Lobby
8:30 am-Noon
Are you new to USA or back for another awesome semester? Kick it off right with Vibes and Vision Boards: Blueprint Your Semester Success hosted by the Marx Library and the Center for Academic Excellence. Drop in, chill out, and get creative! You’ll have the opportunity to craft a vision board to map your goals or fold away your stress at our origami table. Whether you’re manifesting big dreams or just want to unwind and meet fellow Jags, this laid-back, hands-on hangout is the perfect way to start your semester with purpose and some seriously good energy.
11 am-1 pm
Study Abroad 101: Explore the Pop-sibilities
Cool down with a popsicle and heat up your future at this laid-back hangout hosted by the Office of International Education. Meet the Study Abroad squad, both advisors and ambassadors, who’ll help you map out your global adventure. From epic destinations to scholarship opportunities, this is your one-stop shop for turning wanderlust into reality.
Location TBD
3-5 pm
Creative Writing Open Mic
Get ready for an afternoon of tasty pizza and powerful poetry! Come vibe with us, grab a slice, and step up to the mic to share your words or cheer on others. It’s the perfect mix of flavor and flow that you don’t want to miss.
Student Center 203
4-5 pm
Seoul Sync: Back to School Bash
Get ready to kick off the semester with a bang at welcome back bash with Seoul251! Dive into an electrifying night where fun meets fierce competition. Meet the Seoul251 crew, then put your game face on for thrilling Squid Game challenges that’ll test your skills and nerves. Score big by entering our raffle loaded with awesome prizes, show off your moves during a wild round of Random Dance Play, and fuel up with delicious Korean eats. It’s the ultimate night to reconnect, compete, and vibe hard to everything K-pop.
Student Center Ballroom
6-9 pm
More information coming soon.
TBD
South Alabama Football kicks off the season with a showdown against Morgan State at 6 p.m. in Hancock Whitney Stadium. Wear your red, white, and blue, and bring the energy as we launch into another unforgettable season of Jaguar football. Come early, get loud, and let's make some noise for the Jags!
6 pm