Orientation & New Student Programs

Welcome Week 2026

Thursday, August 27 – Sunday August 30, 2026

Hofstra University's Welcome Week is a weeklong schedule of events that is designed to introduce you to the Hofstra campus, the rigor of academic life, our rich culture and traditions, on-campus resources, and the exciting diversity of Hofstra and the community around us. You will have the opportunity to participate in academic, social, athletic, and community events. We have planned an exciting week filled with programs and activities that will help you get better acquainted with Hofstra's campus and become an engaged and involved student.

You and thousands of other students who call Hofstra their home can now gain access to campus resources, over 200 student clubs and organizations, and the many social, cultural, and career opportunities of the New York metropolitan area.

Check-In

When you arrive on campus on Thursday, August 28, 2025, please head to the Intramural Fields located on the north side of campus for check-in. Directional signs and Welcome Week leaders will point you in the right direction. At check-in, you will receive your Hofstra class T-shirt, giveaways, and other important information regarding the Welcome Week program.

Residential students should check their Hofstra email address for check-in information. For questions, email reslife@hofstra.edu.

Commuting students check in from noon to 1 p.m. on the Intramural Fields.

Questions?

Find answers on our Frequently Asked Questions or please email orientation@hofstra.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Accessing the Welcome Week Schedule

The full Welcome Week schedule will be available via the “Guidebook” app in the iOS app store and on Google Play by August 14, 2026. Once the app is downloaded, search for “Hofstra” and download the guide.

Welcome Week Staff

Rose Arias, André Robert Schmalzigaug Delfosse, Kyra Mankiewich

From left to right: Rose Arias, André Robert Schmalzigaug Delfosse, Kyra Mankiewich

Meet The Staff

FAQ

When is Welcome Week?
Welcome Week is Thursday, August 27 – Sunday August 30, 2026. The full schedule is available on an app called “Guidebook,” available on the iOS app store and on Google Play. Download the app, then search for “Hofstra University.” The guide will be available online as of August 14, 2026.
Do I need to register for Welcome Week?
There is no need to register for Welcome Week. All new first-year and transfer undergraduates are expected to attend the program.
Where do I go for Welcome Week?
All new undergraduates (domestic, international, commuter, and residential) should head to the tents on the Intramural Fields (there will be directional signs on campus), where they will check in for the program. Note that residential students will receive information regarding their arrival time window from the Office of Residence Life. Commuting students should plan on checking in at the tents at noon on Thursday, August 27, 2026.
Is Welcome Week mandatory?
Welcome Week is the second phase of New Student Orientation. The program is designed to help you transition into college life at Hofstra and welcome you to the Pride! For these reasons, it is required for all new students to attend Welcome Week.
What if I'm a commuting student?
All new students attend Welcome Week! Commuting students should refer to their Hofstra email in early August regarding information and updates about Welcome Week. Note that commuting students do not stay overnight for Welcome Week.
I'm a residential student. When do I move into my room?
Residential students will move into their on-campus housing on Thursday, August 27, 2026 per the instructions sent from the Office of Residence Life. Please check your Hofstra email, as that is the way updates will be communicated.
Should transfer students attend Welcome Week?
Our program is designed to engage all new students, including our transfer students! We also have programs within our schedule that cater specifically to our transfer student population. Welcome Week is the prime opportunity for all students to make connections with fellow students, faculty, and staff.
Do I have to pay to attend Welcome Week?
Your orientation fee covers New Student Orientation and Welcome Week.
Is there a version of the Welcome Week Schedule that I can print out?
Please note that the Guidebook app will contain the most up-to-date information about Welcome Week. The Guidebook app is available in the iOS app store and on Google Play. The Guide to Welcome Week will appear in Guidebook by August 16, 2026.
How to sign up for Explore Next Door trips & required Welcome Week programs

Explore Next Door trips are guided NYC outings led by Hofstra staff and student leaders (food tours, sports, museums, etc.).

Registration window: Opens Thursday, Aug 27, 2026 at 1:00 PM and closes 5:00 PM EST the same day. Spots are limited and filled first-come, first-served.

Where to sign up: Register through the Hofstra portal at my.hofstra.edu. Trip details and registration directions are available in the Guidebook app, but registration itself happens on the Hofstra portal.

Quick steps to register

  1. Log in at my.hofstra.edu.
  2. Click My Apps (waffle icon) → Welcome Week.
  3. Choose one time slot for each mandatory event.
  4. (Optional) Select an Explore Next Door trip if available.
  5. Enter your email and phone number, then click Register.
  6. Review choices and click Finalize Selections.
  7. Check your Hofstra email for a confirmation message.
Is there a program for my parents and family members?
Yes. Parents and families are welcome to attend a brief in-person program on Thursday, August 27, 2026. They will need to say goodbye to you before the President's Welcome that takes place at 3:30 p.m. Please ask your family to visit hofstra.edu/welcomeday for more information.

If your question isn't answered here, please email orientation@hofstra.edu.