Student Organizations and Performance Groups

Student organization events and performances are among the most beloved programs that take place during Fall Welcome Week, our annual program to welcome new students and their families to the University of Rochester.

Participate in Welcome Week

A student poses for a photo with Rocky while another student takes the photo with their phone in the foreground

Propose an event

Fall 2026 proposal form deadline: Wednesday, April 15

Help welcome new students to campus with a fun and engaging event or activity! Please only submit ONE program proposal per student organization.

Complete proposal form
A member of Bhangra performs in Celebrate Rochester at a past Welcome Week

Sign up to perform

Fall 2026 interest form deadline: Wednesday, April 15

Orientation and New Student Programs and Student Activities organize performance opportunities throughout Welcome Week, including move-in, Convocation, and Celebrate Rochester. Indicate your group's interest in performing at one or more of these events.

Complete interest form

Frequently asked questions

What types of programs can we propose?

We encourage you to think creatively about what events and activities will make new students feel most welcome, connected to their fellow incoming students, and help them learn to navigate campus.

Be sure to keep in mind:

  • Your proposed program should take the needs of all incoming students into consideration.
  • The orientation team may cover some of or all of the supplies necessary to run your proposed program.

Program proposals that will not be considered for the Welcome Week schedule include:

  • Hosting additional speakers during Welcome Week
  • Activities that are exclusive to a particular group of students or people
  • Programs offered for recruitment purposes
When will we be notified about our program proposal or performance opportunities?

The orientation team will follow up with your president and/or the primary contact you listed on your form to discuss your proposal or possible performance opportunities in April.

If selected to participate, will our organization be able to move in early?

Depending on when your program or performance takes place, your members with assigned on-campus housing for the fall semester may be allowed to move in early. For these members to be approved for early move-in, you must complete the Member Participation Information section of either the Proposal or Interest Form in its entirety.

Please note:

  • Not all your organization's members may be allowed to return early. The orientation team will work with you to designate the appropriate number of members approved, based on your program or performance details.
  • If your organization is selected to participate in Welcome Week, the orientation team will work with Residential Life directly to arrange for early move-in. We will reach out to your organization with an Early Arrival Student Agreement that your members will need to complete by the provided deadline. Please do not contact Residential Life directly.
I have more questions. Is there anyone I can speak to?

Of course! Reach out to us anytime at orientation@rochester.edu and one of our professional staff will be happy to answer any questions you have about student organization participation in Welcome Week.