Welcome to the Fall Semester
The University of Massachusetts Amherst is delighted to welcome students back to campus for the fall 2021 semester. “Fall Welcome” kicks off on August 27 with a full schedule of programming for students in all academic levels of their UMass careers, including special events for first-year, transfer, and sophomore students who will experience life on campus for the first time this fall.
Highlights of the Fall Welcome include:
- Kickoff Carnival (August 27, 8 p.m.–11 p.m.)
- Many Voices. One Community. Featuring performances and conversations about all the differences that together make UMass a strong and inclusive community. (August 28, 6 p.m.)
- UFest. Featuring campus departments, food, and fun. (August 29, noon–5 p.m.)
- New Student Convocation, followed by Fall Freeze Ice Cream Social (August 31, 2 p.m.)
- Pond Fire. Specially for second-year students (September 3, 4 p.m.–9 p.m.)
The full schedule of events can be found online or through the My UMass app, available for Apple or Android devices (opt-in for exclusive Fall Welcome event notifications!).
Parents and family members are also included in the festivities. On August 27, a “One More Stop Before You Go” meet-and-greet will be held for families. Additionally, students’ families will be able to view a live stream of the New Student Convocation on August 27.
“The Fall Welcome has something for everyone,” says Pete Smith, director of student life communications and professional development. “Whether you are returning to campus or arriving in Amherst for the first time, we encourage students to use this opportunity to explore UMass’s offerings, find their space on campus, and connect with peers, faculty, and staff.”
This fall marks a return to full, face-to-face instruction and campus life. UMass is committed to providing a safe environment and robust college experience for its students, faculty, and staff. More information about plans for the fall semester, including mask and vaccination requirements, is available online.