Week of Welcome

Week of Welcome (WoW) is a five-day, in-person experience for incoming first-year students and required as part of your First Year Orientation experience.

During WoW, students will:

Connect with other Wildcats
Become familiar with CWU services and resources
Gain wellness strategies
Learn about CWU procedures, expectations, and how to contribute to the campus community
Receive a assignment in their University 101 course about their Week of Welcome experience (a Transition to CWU class that most first-year students take their first quarter at CWU).
Week of Welcome Exemption: if you are unable to attend the required Week of Welcome, please complete the exemption form. Orientation staff will reach out with next steps.
- WOW Exemption Form 2026 – Fill out form

Transfer Students with 45 or more credits are exempt from this requirement. We encourage all transfer students to attend any of the social events and activities held during Week of Welcome. For more information on Transfer Student Orientation, visit the Transfer Student Orientation page.

University 101

UNIV 101, a mandatory one-credit course, is required for all incoming first-year students. Students enrolled in this course are required to participate in the Week of Welcome. This event encompasses a range of activities, workshops, presentations, and social gatherings specifically designed to facilitate your transition into CWU and equip students with the necessary tools for a successful start to the fall quarter.

Throughout the fall quarter, UNIV 101 students will further engage in various workshops focusing on important subjects such as academic planning, study skills, university graduation requirements, class registration, academic programs, student organizations, social and cultural experiences, financial wellness, scholarships, and other valuable opportunities. A diverse array of activities will be available for students to choose from, catering to their specific needs and interests. This allows students to explore different programs, activities, and services while acquiring essential skills required for a successful journey at CWU.

Students who have earned 45 or more college credits before starting at CWU are exempted from the University 101 course requirement.