UMass Amherst

First Year Welcome Weekend Orientation

To assist your transition to the University of Massachusetts as a Commonwealth College student, we will be hosting an annual Welcome Weekend Orientation!

On the Friday and Saturday before Labor Day, you will have the opportunity to:

  • Move onto campus early.
  • Attend activities specially designed to help you get acquainted with the University and Commonwealth College.
  • Meet other ComCol students, including students from your residential and academic areas.
  • Meet with a Commonwealth College advisor to address any last-minute scheduling concerns.


After students move in on Friday, August 29th, we'll have a Welcome Reception for all of our new students, family and friends. An optional parents' reception will follow this event. Students will go to dinner and have a social activity on Friday evening.

Saturday is filled with many activities. It will consist of academic workshops, social events, and an opportunity for additional advising.