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.
September
Transfer Nation
Tuesday, September 1 | 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 Nothing Bundt Cakes (while supplies last), and prepare for the spring semester at Transfer Nation. Stop by for a bit or stay the whole time.
Color’s and Connection
Tuesday, September 15 | 5:00PM – 6:00PM
JC Meeting Room A (Top Floor of the Johnson Center)
Cost: Free!
Register on Mason 360 HERE
Join us for a one-hour, interactive workshop designed to spark authentic connection and creative self-expression through simple art activities and conversation. No artistic experience required—just a willingness to engage!
Mason Night at the Nats
Wednesday, September 16 | 5:00PM-11:00PM
Cost: $20.00 (Includes game ticket, GMU Item, and Transportation)
Register HERE
Join New Student and Family Programs for this First Year Student Meetup at George Mason Night at Nationals Park! Watch the Washington Nationals take on the Philadelphia Phillies and get a special edition Nationals/George Mason collaboration gear just for attending! We’ll take care of transportation to and from the game, so you can just relax and enjoy the night while meeting some of your fellow Patriots. Don’t miss out on this fun opportunity to connect, cheer on the Nat’s, and represent Mason pride!
These tickets are only open to undergraduate students in their first year at George Mason (Freshman and Transfer Students). If you are a graduate student or undergraduate student not in your first year at Mason, you can purchase tickets through Student Involvement. Stay tuned for more details.
First-Year Fall Escape Part 1
Friday, September 18- Sunday, September 20
Elizabeth Furnace
Cost: $50.00 (Includes both part 1 and 2 of the experience, campsite fees, food, transportation, and camp activity costs)
Register HERE (only 10 spots available)
No Previous Camping Experience Required!
Kick off your outdoor adventure with our First Year Fall Escape series, in partnership with the Outdoor Adventures program! Part 1 at Elizabeth Furnace is designed to introduce you to the basics of camping while helping you connect with other first-year students, reflect on your student experience, and learn about campus resources. Features tubing and/or stand up paddle boarding on the Shenandoah River.
Please Note: This is a two-part experience. Students who register are expected to attend both weekends as the trips will build off each other. If additional space becomes available we will contact waitlisted students. Part 2 will take place Friday, October 23- Sunday, October 25 (See below for more details).
October
Orientation Reunion
Wednesday, October 14 | 3:30PM-5:30PM
JC George’s (Top Floor of the Johnson Center)
Cost: FREE!
RSVP on Mason 360 HERE
Join New Student and Family Programs at this special event! There will be snacks, mood boards, and a chance to reconnect with your former Patriot Leader from summer 2026! Stop by the whole time or just for a bit.
National Transfer Student Week Outdoor Movie
Wednesday, October 21 | 7:30PM-10:00PM
JC South Plaza (by the JC Starbucks Entrance)
Cost: FREE!
RSVP Coming Soon!
Join us for an Outdoor Movie Night in celebration of National Transfer Student Week! Connect with fellow transfer students while enjoying popcorn, snacks, drinks, and fun fall crafts. The movie will be announced soon, so bring a blanket or lawn chair and come celebrate with us under the stars!
First-Year Fall Escape Part 2
Friday, October 23- Sunday, October 25
Sky Meadows
$50.00 (Includes both part 1 and 2 of the experience, campsite fees, food, transportation, and camp activity costs)
Register HERE (only 10 spots available)
Please Note: This is a two-part experience. See above for Part 1 details. Students who register are expected to attend both weekends as the trips will build off each other. If additional space becomes available we will contact waitlisted students.
In part 2 at Sky Meadows, you’ll build on skills covered in part 1 while enjoying new challenges, activities, and the beautiful fall scenery. Expect to go hiking, build campfires, learn how to set up camp, cook outdoors, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned campuer or a complete beginner, this trip is open to all levels of experience. Don’t have your own gear? No worries! Camping equipment is included in the price of the ticket.