Panther Welcome FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Panther Welcome? The Panther Welcome experience is the next step in preparing incoming students for success at UNI. This program will help you get connected with new and returning students, discover UNI traditions, attend fun and engaging events, and find out what it means to be a Panther! All new undergraduate students admitted for fall 2023 are expected to attend.
- Is Panther Welcome required?
Panther Welcome is an integral part of your transition to UNI. The choice to attend is similar to whether or not you choose to attend class, or get involved on campus. Just like regular class attendance is important for academic success, your participation in Panther Welcome is important for adjusting and getting you acquainted with your new campus.
- When does Panther Welcome start?
Panther Welcome starts the evening of Wednesday, August 16, 2023.
- Do I have to register for Panther Welcome?
No registration is necessary. Just show up ready to have a great experience.
- Do I have to pay for this program?
There is no additional cost for participating in Panther Welcome.
- Do I have to attend Panther Welcome and orientation? What's the difference?
Orientation provides your first introduction to campus resources and includes registration for your first semester of classes. Panther Welcome allows more time for making new friends, learning about UNI traditions and campus resources in an in-depth and hands-on format, and preparing for your first day of class the following week.
- Do I have to stay the entire time?
We expect that students who attend Panther Welcome will participate in all sessions. This maximizes your opportunity to make new friends, learn about campus and prepare for a successful first semester.
- When do I move in?
Please refer to our Move-In Guide on the Housing & Dining website.
- What if I don't live on-campus?
All new students, regardless of where they live, are strongly encouraged to participate in Panther Welcome. Panther Welcome is especially important for off-campus students, since it provides an early opportunity to make friends, get involved and find connections to the campus community. Students living off campus will meet their Cat Crew leader at Gilchrist 102.
- Is Panther Welcome for transfer students too?
Absolutely! Panther Welcome is a program for all new students. We have developed Panther Welcome programming specifically designed for new transfer students. We recognize that transfer students bring a unique perspective, including previous academic and co-curricular higher education experiences, and we want to make sure we build on what you already know.
- What if I am in Panther Marching Band during the Panther Welcome Program?
Panther Marching Band (PMB) students will be able to participate in some aspects of fall Panther Welcome programming. Students will be excused from PMB rehearsal to attend certain Panther Welcome events, which will be outlined in your camp schedule upon arrival.
- What if I am working on campus and I have training?
If your on-campus employer has notified you of training commitments the week before classes begin, just email back to request an alternate training time due to your Panther Welcome involvement.