Virginia Tech kicks off spring semester with its first Winter Welcome Week

By Tammy Tripp

Welcome Week acclimates students to the Virginia Tech main campus and community each fall. But what about students who arrive in January or want a fresh start for spring semester?

Say hello to Winter Welcome Week.

Virginia Tech’s first formal series of welcome events for spring semester features a Winter Extravaganza with ice-skating, special entertainment and fitness activities, open houses, and more. Hot cocoa and free food are on the menu.

Events began Jan. 20 and run through Feb. 3. Like the university’s fall Welcome Week schedule, the series of events is longer than a week to give students extended opportunities to connect and find their place.

“We have planned more than 30 events and activities to help students meet, get involved – or get involved in a new way – and succeed at Virginia Tech,” said Chad Zoller, assistant director for New Student and Family Programs (NSFP). “We want students to have fun, explore campus, and learn more about available services and organizations.”

Students can explore organizations from 3-6 p.m. in Squires Student Center on Jan. 31 during GobblerFair. The event is similar to Gobblerfest, the festival held at the beginning of each fall semester that gives students an opportunity to explore campus and local organizations.

NSFP began planning for Winter Welcome Week in September after wrapping up fall Welcome Week activities. The team is collaborating with departments and organizations across campus.

“Not everyone finds their place the first semester or even the first few semesters,” Zoller said. “And it’s a great way for spring transfer or newly enrolled students to get involved and meet people. Everyone can benefit from participating.”

A team of student leaders is on hand to help facilitate conversations, build community, and offer support.

“We also have amazing giveaways and games,” said junior Andy Grassia, who is a student leader majoring in natural resource conservation in the College of Natural Resources and Environment. “We hope students will come out, bring others, and enjoy the programs.”

The complete Winter Welcome Week schedule is available on the Hokies on Track app by downloading the My First Year, My Transfer First Year, or the Hokie Families guides.