First-Year Connection events are designed to facilitate meaningful connections among first-year students, new transfer students, faculty, staff, and campus resources. These programs aim to enhance student engagement and support academic and personal growth throughout a student’s first year at Mason. Through a series of unique experiences both on campus and in the DC Metro area, students will have the opportunity to build lasting relationships, gain valuable insights on their collegiate journey, and fully integrate into the university community.
February
Transfer Nation
Wednesday, February 4 | 3:30PM – 5:30PM
JC George’s (Top Floor of the Johnson Center)
Cost: Free!
RSVP on Mason 360 HERE
Welcome to Campus New Transfer Patriots and Welcome Back Returning Transfer Patriots! Come meet other transfer students, decorate a journal/bingo board and goal set for 2026, enjoy some snacks, and prepare for the spring semester at Transfer Nation. Stop by for a bit or stay the whole time!
Valentine’s Cooking Class
Thursday, February 12 | 2:00PM – 4:00PM
Ike’s Multipurpose Room
Cost: Free!
Register on Mason 360 HERE (Only 30 spots available!)
Celebrate the season of connection with a special Valentine’s-themed cooking class designed just for first-year students and new transfer students! In partnership with Chartwells, this interactive experience invites students to learn basic cooking skills while preparing festive dishes in a fun, supportive environment. Whether you’re cooking with friends or meeting new people, this class offers a hands-on opportunity to build confidence in the kitchen, explore campus dining resources, and enjoy a creative break from the semester.
Downtown Fairfax Coffee Crawl
Tuesday, February 24 | 3:00PM-5:00PM
Cost: Free!
RSVP on Mason 360 HERE
Join Contemporary Student Services, First Year Connections, and the Old Town Fairfax Business Association in this Coffee Shop Crawl! Come by and check out the local coffee shops and get some free samples. Meet up at the CUE bus stop to take the bus together or park for free in the local area! There will be a passport for students to collect. The first 80 students to visit each location will receive a free GMU Travel Mug!
List of participating coffee shops!
-Layered
-Commonwealth Brewing
-Common Culture
-Sunberry Bowls
-De Clieu Coffee
March
Day Trip to the Smithsonian School of Conservation
Saturday, March 28 | 8:30AM- 6:00PM
Cost: $25
Register HERE (only 25 spots available!)
Join us for a day of exploration, learning, and adventure beyond campus! Students will travel to the Smithsonian School of Conservation, where they’ll learn about the campus’s educational programs, take a guided van tour of the grounds, and enjoy lunch while connecting with peers. Afterward, the trip continues to Skyline Caverns, where students will explore one of Virginia’s natural wonders and learn about the region’s unique geology and history.
The cost of the trip includes bus transportation, lunch, and admission to Skyline Caverns.