Discoveries Orientation Fall 2025

Join the Office of Student Employment at our student employment job fair! During this event, students will be able to meet with on-campus employers looking for talented future team members across all majors.

Come check out all the student clubs and organizations that DU has to offer. Learn about the various ways to get involved on campus and meet other students with similar interests and hobbies as you!

Required meetings to review residential policies including finalizing community and roommate agreements.

Residential returning students move back in to their residence halls

Take advantage of free things to do in the Denver Area! Ride the RTD to a few iconic spots, or stay on campus and enjoy a class hosted by the KMC Rec and Wellness team. DON'T FORGET YOUR STUDENT ID!

All activities will leave from the University of Denver lightrail station.

The following activities can be engaged with at any time during the day you'd like, but several peer mentors will be leading groups of interested folks at some set times:

DENVER ART MUSEUM (Free day all day!):
Join Peer Mentors at the University of Denver Lightrail station BY 11:15AM and look for your friendly Peer Mentors! They will lead a group to the museum should you wish to join them.
You will take the 11:26AM train (E Line) North towards Union Station and get off after 3 stops at Alameda Station then walk one minute to the Alameda Bus Station (Gate B along Cherokee st.). From there you will take the 52 bus at 11:40am (or 30 min later if you miss it) towards Ward and 64th Avenue, getting off at Cherokee St & W 14th Ave, just 2 min walk from the museum. Alternative route would be taking the same H Line 4 stops and getting off at 10th and Osage Station, followed by 1.2 mile walk (group preference day-of). The Museum is located at 100 W 14th Ave Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204. Everyone should arrive to the museum around 12:15pm and you can enter together should you like. PM's will help you with a ride back as well. Listen to their plan for that before you separate to view the museum.

LARIMER SQUARE:
Meet at the University of Denver Lightrail station BY 11:00am and join Peer Mentors on the 11:11am E line train north. Take the train 7 stops and get off at the Ball Arena/Elitch Gardens stop. Then walk 15 minutes east towards Larimer street past Ball Arena and the CU Denver campus. Check out Tivoli Hall at CU if you'd like!

SOUTH PEARL STREET: Meet at University of Denver's Lightrail (RTD) station at 10:00am (train will leave BY 10:11am). Take the E line North at 10:11am 2 stops and get off at Louisiana/Pearl Station and walk 3 short blocks West down Louisiana to Pearl Street. Turn left and walk down Pearl Street for several blocks enjoying the shops.
Explore one of Denver’s most historic and charming shopping districts right next to DU with plenty of locally-owned businesses and some of the hottest restaurants in Denver. Pearl St. also hosts the famous pearl st farmers market every Sunday until November. While you’re there make sure to check out Stella’s Coffee, Tokyo Premium Bakery, and keep an eye out for the miniature fairy doors local businesses have created! There are Farmers Markets along Pearl Street every Sunday Morning throughout summer until late October.

UNION STATION:
Meet at University of Denver's Lightrail (RTD) station at 10:00am (train will leave BY 10:11am). Ride E Line north to Union Station until you arrive to Union Station.
Grab some coffee and pastries from Pigtrain Coffee Co. and check out Tattered Cover Book Store as you explore Union Station. With Union Station being in the heart of Denver, you can also cross the Millennium Bridge on the north end of 16th St. to Commons Park or explore the blocks of eateries and shopping vendors throughout central Denver and 16th St. Mall.

MORNING HIGH INTENSITY INTERVAL TRAINING (HIIT) STUDIO CLASS AT RITCHIE CENTER:
At 9:30am, make your way into the South end of the Ritchie Center and enter the Rec Center to find the studio (look for a peer mentor to guide you). Class BEGINS at 9:45am and runs until 10:30am. Following your registration here, you will be redirected to register via the official sign up with the center. Please follow through with their steps as well!

• Denver Art Museum (Free visit day ALL DAY!) - Join 4D Peer Mentors on group trip leaving University of Denver Station at 11:15am, or meet them at the museum by 12:15pm
• Discover Union Station (10:00AM) - Join 4D Peer Mentors on an adventure to explore Union Station and surrounding restaurants, parks, and coffee shops
• South Pearl Street Hangout (10:00AM) - Join 4D Peer Mentors on a trip over to the historic South Pearl Street area for some snacks, shopping, and fun
• Larimer Square Meet-up (11:00AM): Join others for a trip to Larimer Square to grab ice cream and surrounding area
• HIIT Studio Class (9:45am - 10:30am) small group HIIT workouts in private studio. Meet in Ritchie Center Rec (Must also sign up through their link when redirected)

Wrap up Discoveries After Dark with a high-energy celebration of the Mile High City—open to all students! Co-sponsored by Fraternity & Sorority Life and DUPB, this event features laser tag, human hamster ball soccer, a live DJ, and Denver-themed activities inspired by iconic local landmarks. Come for the fun, stay for the community vibes and unforgettable memories!

OPEN TO ALL STUDENTS!

Dining Hall open

Full details can be found here: https://studentaffairs.du.edu/new-student-family/new-students/graduate

FSEM Small Group Rooms or place determind by 4D Peer Mentor will do one final reflection for the Letter to Future Self 4D Reflection Activity. This letter to their future self will be passed back out at a future time in partnership with the FSEM faculty or the Transfer Small groups.

FSEM destinations are a highlight of the DU Discoveries experience as they introduce students often to the Denver Community, as well as giving them time to dive in deeper with their peers and professor.

Dining Hall open

Catch the sunset from the top of North Table Mountain!
Kick off your weekend with an evening hike in Golden, one of the Front Range’s most popular hiking destinations. From atop the mesa, take in views of Denver’s skyline, with Boulder to the north, and Colorado Springs to the south.
We’ll cover roughly 3-4 miles (depending on the group) of moderate, switchback, and rolling terrain. Bring secure, closed-toe shoes, at least a liter of water, and any trail snacks you like. Two Peer Mentors and one DU Outdoors staff member will be with the group for guidance and support.
The DU Outdoors Shuttle seats 12 and will depart campus at 4:00 PM, returning around 7:30 PM. Spots are limited—sign up soon!

Dining Hall open

Keep the energy going with Friday Night Live, part of the Discoveries After Dark series! Enjoy a live hypnotist show, student improv show, drag bingo, and classic casino games like blackjack and craps. It’s a night full of laughs, surprises, and chances to win big—don’t miss out!

Casino Games will be available all night in Community Commons 1700

8:15pm
Hypnotist show in Davis Auditorium (Sturm Hall)
Spirituality Walk through campus reflecting and engaging in community (Meet on Campus Green)
Student Improv show performed by Skintight Outrage, DU's famous student improv group (Campus Green Tent)

9:00pm
Drag Bingo on the Campus Green! Cool prizes and lots of fun entertainment.

9:15pm
2nd Hypnotist show in Davis Auditorium (Sturm Hall)

First Ascent to Kennedy Mountain Campus

Dining Hall open

Students meet their 4D Peer Mentor and get acclimated to the Discoveries Orientation Schedule

New first year students will meet with their FSEM faculty. Transfer students will go to Transfer Student Orientation.

Specialized orientation sessions for new transfer students.

Dining Hall open

Dining Hall open

Graduate International students will go through important training and information about their new student experience.

Students will breakout into approximately 25 rooms with their FSEM or Transfer Small Group and learn about how to dialogue across difference at the University of Denver.

All new students (FTFY & TR) students will attend the College Receptions during this time.

From 3:30-4:30 CAHSS welcomes new students to get their questions answered about our majors and minors, connect with departmental faculty and staff and learn more about opportunities and support available throughout the college. Psychology will have 50-60 chairs in a corner back and will hold sessions at 3:30, 3:50 and 4:10. English will do an additional in-depth session 4:30-5:30 in Sturm,253
Lamont will also do an additional in-depth session 4:30-5:30 in Sturm 254

From 3:30-4:30 NSM students will be welcomed by departments and learn more about majors. Locations vary by departments (see full list below) From 4:30-5:30 all NSM students will be welcomed by the dean of the college in BAUD 101. New students will also hear from a NSM alumni panel about their experiences at and after DU
Biological Sciences - Olin 105
Chemistry & Biochemistry - Olin 205
Geography & the Environment - BAUD 101
Mathematics - CMK 101; Physics & Astronomy - PHYS 118
NSM All-College Welcome in BAUD 101

Global Issues. Real Skills. Lasting Impact.

At the Josef Korbel School of Global and Public Affairs, we tackle the challenges that shape our world: security, sustainability, human rights, and more. Our nationally ranked programs and hands-on curriculum set you apart in any career field. And here, you're not just a number, we see you, we know you, and we’re excited to welcome you. Join us for snacks, conversation, and a chance to connect with our dean, students, and faculty as you explore what Korbel is all about.

We will start in ECS 510 at 3:30 pm with the Deans and Chairs giving a welcome presentation. Then we will have a panel discussion with current students and alum. Then we will break up into two sections after about 45 minutes for any additional advising (engineering students and faculty will go to ECS 510 and CS faculty and students will go to ECS 410). During the transition break will have a snack or treat for the students and alums outside ECS 510.

Ready to kickstart your Daniels journey? Join us for an energizing afternoon where you’ll dive into the dynamic Daniels curriculum, discover exciting ways to get involved, and connect with your future classmates. After a quick, insightful info session with an advisor, we’ll sweeten the deal with a lively ice cream social—your chance to mingle, network, and build the connections that will shape your Daniels experience.

All Exploratory Students will join the Office of Academic Advising and Career and Professional Development to learn about their exploratory student journey. This session will introduce students on best practices to explore majors and career paths.

Informal drop-in session and mingle for Honors students.

Dining Hall open

Experience the magic of the boardwalk at this vibrant Discoveries After Dark event! Enjoy balloon art, trivia, and prizes, face painting, coconut tree climbing, axe throwing, mechanical surfboards, and sand art. It’s a night full of fun, color, and community you won’t want to miss!

Dining Hall open

Find your 4D Peer Mentor on Campus Green! Know your mentor first name. If you don't know it, look up your FSEM so we can help you.

Students meet their 4D Peer Mentor and get acclimated to the Discoveries Orientation Schedule

New first year students will meet with their FSEM faculty. Transfer students will go to Transfer Student Orientation.

Specialized orientation sessions for new transfer students.

Dining Hall open

Dining Hall open

Students will breakout into large lecture rooms to hear from the 4D Peer Mentors about all things essential to their DU Student Experience! Real Talk at DU: Safety, Respect, and Smart Decisions

As we do annually, the students will congregate on the lacrosse field to meet their 4D Peer Mentor and form the classic DU to take their class photo.

Information sessions from various campus departments and services, served in an option of two, 30 minute resources flash talks, with transition time in between. (4:15-4:45pm and 5:00-5:30)

Are you a disabled student? This session will help you learn more about what services and resources the Student Disability Services office provides! SDS staff will be reviewing the process of applying for accommodations and answering your questions about eligibility, documentation requirements, etc. Come by to learn how SDS can support your DU journey.

It's not too late to join! Learn about the Honors Program and how to apply during our final application round for new first-year and transfer students this October.

Time management in college looks a lot different than in high school. Priorities and responsibilities will change every term. Come meet with Student Success Coaching to begin evaluating your time, class schedule, and beyond to successfully start the school year strong.

Join us for a lightning-round look at how FIRST@DU empowers first-generation college students at the University of Denver. From enrichment funds to community dinners, family engagement to faculty and staff connections, discover what makes up our vibrant  first-gen ecosystem. 

Discover all that the Coors Fitness Center has to offer to help you thrive whether you are new to working out or aiming for peak performance. In this session we will explore the variety of group fitness classes, personalized training options, and the unique DU Training program. Learn how each resource can fit into your lifestyle, support your goals, and connect you with a vibrant fitness community right here on campus.

New to campus and already hearing wild stories about student conduct? Join us for a fun, interactive session where we bust the biggest myths, clear up the confusion, and help you figure out what’s real, what’s rumor, and how SRR is here to support you.

Thinking about studying abroad but not sure where to begin? It’s never too early to start planning! This session will show you how to leverage your four years in college to gain international experience—whether through a semester abroad, summer programs, internships, or research opportunities. Learn why starting early gives you more options, funding opportunities, and time to prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.

From wild roommate tales to essential coexistence skills, this session dives into communication, boundaries, and friendship-building. Learn practical tips to avoid common conflicts—and bring your questions!

We'll walk you through how to use SpeedQueen, the laundry app that makes doing your laundry on campus, stress-free. Learn how to check machine availability, get alerts when your clothes are done, and pay right through the app, all while avoiding the hassles of a shared laundry room.

Learn how to navigate Denver with ease using RTD’s buses and trains. Discover tips, tools, and free resources that will help you get to class, work, and all your weekend adventures.

In this interactive session, participants will learn strategies for writing in college from two insiders (DU undergraduate/graduate students who work in the University Writing Center) and "fish" for incentives to visit the Writing Center for support with academic, professional, creative, and civic writing. 

Join us for a quick half-hour outside to hear what's ahead for the year. Get a glimpse of what's to come as we pedal, stride, and jug into the launch of DU Outdoors (DUO) with trips, workshops, and ways to get involved.

The HCC includes CAPE, Medical clinic, Counseling and Health Promotion- learn what we do, how to access our services and ask any pressing questions to make your transition to campus smoother.

An LGBTQ+ community center to help you make the most of your college experience. Come by to learn more about community events, groups, mental health services, and more! 

Whether you're a weekend warrior, a competitive gamer, or just looking to stay active and make friends, this session is your all-access pass to campus recreation! Learn how to get involved in Club Sports, Intramurals, and Esports; no matter your skill level. Meet student leaders, explore upcoming leagues and tournaments, and discover how to turn your passion for play into a powerful part of your college experience. Don’t sit on the sidelines—come find your team, your game, and your place on campus!

Not sure where you belong yet? Come learn how FSL can help you find your people, build confidence, and make the most of your college journey from the very beginning.

Looking to get involved in big things at DU? Have some experience from your high school student-council that you think could be a great contribution? In this Resource Flashtalk we’ll share more about two really cool opportunities to get involved: the DU Programming Board – DU’s largest event planning student group on campus putting on some of DU’s best traditions, and innovative events throughout the year; and Undergraduate Student Government – the student representatives who raise the voice of the undergraduate student body to impact change on campus.

Learn more about the Center for Community Engagement to advance Scholarship and Learning (CCESL) and the different opportunities and resources that support students to meaningfully collaborate with communities and to unite social change with academics.

At DU, the Career & Professional Development team is ready to help you find jobs that are right for you both during and after your degree program! In this session, you will learn about how to get a job on campus and how to start planning for your career after graduation

Come and learn about DU Well Coaching and how it can help you develop strategies to support your wellness journey during your time at DU. Whether you want to build a consistent fitness routine or develop better sleep habits, DU Well Coaching can help you achieve your goals.

Relationships can be tricky, but getting clear on our values, expectations, and boundaries makes them so much easier! Through guided reflection and discussion, we'll start exploring what we want from our connections (romantic and otherwise) while at DU, and we'll leave with the strategies that will help us start building.

In this session you'll learn how to keep you and your friends safer as we cover safer substance use strategies, practice how to use Narcan and fentanyl testing strips, and identify what harm reduction resources are available at DU.

Are you a disabled student? This session will help you learn more about what services and resources the Student Disability Services office provides! SDS staff will be reviewing the process of applying for accommodations and answering your questions about eligibility, documentation requirements, etc. Come by to learn how SDS can support your DU journey.

It's not too late to join! Learn about the Honors Program and how to apply during our final application round for new first-year and transfer students this October.

Time management in college looks a lot different than in high school. Priorities and responsibilities will change every term. Come meet with Student Success Coaching to begin evaluating your time, class schedule, and beyond to successfully start the school year strong.

Join us for a lightning-round look at how FIRST@DU empowers first-generation college students at the University of Denver. From enrichment funds to community dinners, family engagement to faculty and staff connections, discover what makes up our vibrant  first-gen ecosystem. 

Discover all that the Coors Fitness Center has to offer to help you thrive whether you are new to working out or aiming for peak performance. In this session we will explore the variety of group fitness classes, personalized training options, and the unique DU Training program. Learn how each resource can fit into your lifestyle, support your goals, and connect you with a vibrant fitness community right here on campus.

From wild roommate tales to essential coexistence skills, this session dives into communication, boundaries, and friendship-building. Learn practical tips to avoid common conflicts—and bring your questions!

We'll walk you through how to use SpeedQueen, the laundry app that makes doing your laundry on campus, stress-free. Learn how to check machine availability, get alerts when your clothes are done, and pay right through the app, all while avoiding the hassles of a shared laundry room.

Learn how to navigate Denver with ease using RTD’s buses and trains. Discover tips, tools, and free resources that will help you get to class, work, and all your weekend adventures.

In this interactive session, participants will learn strategies for writing in college from two insiders (DU undergraduate/graduate students who work in the University Writing Center) and "fish" for incentives to visit the Writing Center for support with academic, professional, creative, and civic writing. 

Join us for a quick half-hour outside to hear what's ahead for the year. Get a glimpse of what's to come as we pedal, stride, and jug into the launch of DU Outdoors (DUO) with trips, workshops, and ways to get involved.

The HCC includes CAPE, Medical clinic, Counseling and Health Promotion- learn what we do, how to access our services and ask any pressing questions to make your transition to campus smoother.

An LGBTQ+ community center to help you make the most of your college experience. Come by to learn more about community events, groups, mental health services, and more! 

Whether you're a weekend warrior, a competitive gamer, or just looking to stay active and make friends, this session is your all-access pass to campus recreation! Learn how to get involved in Club Sports, Intramurals, and Esports; no matter your skill level. Meet student leaders, explore upcoming leagues and tournaments, and discover how to turn your passion for play into a powerful part of your college experience. Don’t sit on the sidelines—come find your team, your game, and your place on campus!

Not sure where you belong yet? Come learn how FSL can help you find your people, build confidence, and make the most of your college journey from the very beginning.

Looking to get involved in big things at DU? Have some experience from your high school student-council that you think could be a great contribution? In this Resource Flashtalk we’ll share more about two really cool opportunities to get involved: the DU Programming Board – DU’s largest event planning student group on campus putting on some of DU’s best traditions, and innovative events throughout the year; and Undergraduate Student Government – the student representatives who raise the voice of the undergraduate student body to impact change on campus.

Learn more about the Center for Community Engagement to advance Scholarship and Learning (CCESL) and the different opportunities and resources that support students to meaningfully collaborate with communities and to unite social change with academics.

At DU, the Career & Professional Development team is ready to help you find jobs that are right for you both during and after your degree program! In this session, you will learn about how to get a job on campus and how to start planning for your career after graduation

Relationships can be tricky, but getting clear on our values, expectations, and boundaries makes them so much easier! Through guided reflection and discussion, we'll start exploring what we want from our connections (romantic and otherwise) while at DU, and we'll leave with the strategies that will help us start building.

In this session you'll learn how to keep you and your friends safer as we cover safer substance use strategies, practice how to use Narcan and fentanyl testing strips, and identify what harm reduction resources are available at DU.

New to campus and already hearing wild stories about student conduct? Join us for a fun, interactive session where we bust the biggest myths, clear up the confusion, and help you figure out what’s real, what’s rumor, and how SRR is here to support you.

Thinking about studying abroad but not sure where to begin? It’s never too early to start planning! This session will show you how to leverage your four years in college to gain international experience—whether through a semester abroad, summer programs, internships, or research opportunities. Learn why starting early gives you more options, funding opportunities, and time to prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.

Come and learn about DU Well Coaching and how it can help you develop strategies to support your wellness journey during your time at DU. Whether you want to build a consistent fitness routine or develop better sleep habits, DU Well Coaching can help you achieve your goals.

Dining Hall open

Bring your food to this 1 hour informational session to learn critical information about your Honors Program.

Informal drop-in session and mingle for PLP students

Bring your food to this 1 hour informational session to learn critical information about your Honors Program.

Step back in time for a night of throwback fun at the Ritchie Center! This Discoveries After Dark event features human curling, broomball, club sports, e-gaming, and plenty of food. Whether you're feeling competitive or just want to hang out, there's something for everyone at this high-energy, retro-themed evening.

BEFORE YOU GO: please sign the Rec waiver so you can move quickly through the line.
https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/e/6RSoajZJ2kmFG2n2V6Mwkd/

Orientation for incoming exchange students covering DU introduction, billing, health, academics and more.

Students move in based on housing assignments.

Tour for parents, families, and support systems. Departs from Parent & Family Welcome Lounge

• 9AM Tour
• 11am Tour

Veterans and Military Resources (VMR) a department in the Dean of Students Office in the Division of Student Affairs and Inclusive Excellence at the University of Denver (DU), in partnership with your school certifying officials from the Registrar's Office, will bring you essential information about how your GI Bill is used at the University of Denver, ways to get involved in student life, and resources available to you!
Each session is identical; you can expect the same information from both.

Parents, families, and support systems are invited to drop by the Welcome Lounge for Campus tours, and to write a note to their student on the “Wish Wall.”

Orienation for incoming undergraduate international students covering Immigration/Visa Paperwork, and more.

Veterans and Military Resources (VMR) a department in the Dean of Students Office in the Division of Student Affairs and Inclusive Excellence at the University of Denver (DU), in partnership with your school certifying officials from the Registrar's Office, will bring you essential information about how your GI Bill is used at the University of Denver, ways to get involved in student life, and resources available to you!
Each session is identical; you can expect the same information from both.

Students and their families in these programs are invited to participate in a welcome and orientation for these specific programs. These programs have communicated with their students to share time and location details.

1:00-1:50pm: Coaching your Student Through the DU Curriculum
2:00-2:50pm: From Emptying the Nest to Flocking Together: Student and Family Well-being During the Transition to College
3:00-3:50pm: Navigating the Transition

Students will have the opportunity to connect with and learn about Student Disability Services on campus.

Campus offices have been invited to table to provide visibility to the parent audience of their offices and their work.

Meet the Director of Spiritual Life and representatives from Religious and Spiritual student orgs; learn about campus resources and ways to get involved; grab a map of campus reflection and prayer spaces; and be sure to add a heart or a message of hope to our Interfaith Chalk-In canvas!

All residential students will participate in their floor meetings. Resident Mentors will share their respectice floor locations. At the conclusion, Resident Mentors will walk their students to Magness Arena for Convocation.

Non-residential students will connect with other new commuter and non-residential students.

Any non-residential student can go to the ID Card Office in Driscoll Commons, Garden Level.

Official welcoming of new students and their families. “Ringing in” of new students to follow as students and families depart Magness Arena for Crimson Cookout.

Welcome to the DU Community! Join faculty, staff, and the entire DU Community as we welcome new students and their parents and families to the university. We will have a catered BBQ dinner, music, and activities for all to enjoy! Join us at Discoveries After Dark to continue the celebration.

Welcome reception for all incoming students and families hosted by the Student Inclusion & Belonging (SIB) team. We will introduce students to the SIB staff (The Cultural Center and First@DU), as well as student affinity group leaders and other campus resources to welcome students from diverse backgrounds to DU.

Unwind and get creative at our first Discoveries After Dark event! Join us for a relaxed evening of DIY fun—make friendship bracelets, pot a Spider plant, sip a mocktail, stuff your own DU Pillow, and/or design your own vision board! A great way to meet new friends and ease into campus life.

Admissions and International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) invite you to join us for a free pizza party! Stop by I-House between 4-6pm on September 1st for pizza dinner and to meet other newly arrived international students. Hope to see you there!