Returning students are scheduled to move into residence halls Friday, Aug. 18, in preparation for the start of fall classes at 8 a.m. New students will begin a week-long orientation to University life, sponsored by Western's Student Development and Orientation Office, with the 4 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 17 New Student Convocation in Western Hall. The Convocation serves as the University's official welcome to new students and their families and introduces the University's faculty and staff, its academic mission and its student services. Both sessions will cover faculty interaction, advising issues, childcare, parking, financial aid, healthcare, and more. Students will also have the opportunity to buy books and parking permits.
Children are welcome.
Parking will be available east of the Union. Opportunities for students to learn about more than 150 student organizations and departments, volunteer opportunities and community services and products will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 23 in the University Union. The WIU Union Bookstore will be open extended hours during orientation. WIU's University Union building is open Mondays through Thursdays from 7 a.m. to midnight. Friday and Saturday hours are 7 a.m. to 1 a.m., and Sunday hours are 8 a.m. to midnight.