Welcome Week · August 16–22, 2026
Six events. Hundreds of freshmen. One easy place to start finding your people in Athens.
Your first week, made easier
Welcome Week is built for students who want community but do not know where to begin.
Everyone is invited, no church background is required, and you should absolutely come even if you do not know a single person in Athens. Every event gives you something simple to do while friendships begin naturally.
Your week, event by event
You do not need a perfect plan. Start with the event that feels easiest and let the week unfold from there.
7:00 PM · North Campus Lawn
Move-in week can make it look like everyone else has already found their people. They haven’t. Walk over for easy games, music, and a first round of introductions—no athletic ability or pre-made group required.
Come for ten minutes or stay all evening.
7:00 PM · Tate West Lawn
Kick off your first semester by meeting other freshmen, enjoying free snacks and giveaways, hearing a short message of spiritual encouragement from our campus minister, Ben, and entering a raffle for prizes. Whether you've been involved in church your whole life or you're simply curious, this is a great first step into the RUF community.
Free snacks, giveaways, and a prize raffle.
7:30 PM · Redeemer Presbyterian Church, 165 Pulaski Street
Hundreds of UGA and UNG students gather for music, honest Bible teaching, and time to connect. You do not need to know the songs, own a Bible, or be sure what you believe. Come early and someone will help you find a seat. Stick around after Large Group for a free pizza party outside in our parking lot. It's one of the best opportunities to meet people and hang out after worship.
Questions, doubts, and church experience are all welcome.
8:00 PM · Molly’s Coffee Company · 8830 Macon Highway, Building 100, Athens, GA 30606
You do not need to arrive with a team. We will help make one when you get there. Expect good questions, friendly competition, plenty of conversation, and a room full of people who are still meeting one another too.
Need a ride? Reach out to one of our staff members—we'd love to help you get there.
Fridays, 3:00–5:00 PM · Myers Quad
Come play volleyball every Friday afternoon! All skill levels are welcome. Whether you want to jump in a game, toss a football, or just bring homework and hang out, everyone is invited.
Play, study, or just spend time together.
Saturday, 6:00 PM · Signup details shared on Instagram and GroupMe
Follow our Instagram and join our GroupMe! We'll send out signup forms there before the event so you can reserve your spot.
Watch Instagram and GroupMe for the signup form.
A first look
Welcome Week is less about having the right thing to say and more about being in the room, on the lawn, or around the table.
Before you come
If your question is not here, send it to us. You are never bothering anyone by asking.
Ask a questionThat is exactly who Welcome Week is designed for. Most incoming freshmen are arriving without an established group. Staff and student leaders will be looking for people who came alone and will make introductions right away.
No. RUF welcomes students who are convinced, curious, skeptical, or still deciding what they believe. You will never be asked to pretend or already know the language.
Not at all. Choose the event that sounds easiest, then come back if you want. Each gathering is designed to stand on its own, although seeing a familiar face more than once makes the week even better.
Come in normal campus clothes. Wear something comfortable for the lawn events, and bring water if it is hot. Event-specific details will be shared in GroupMe as the week gets closer.
Look for RUF signs, name tags, and staff members pictured below. If you feel unsure, send us a message before you leave your dorm and someone can help you find the group.
Most Welcome Week events are open to any UGA, UNG, or Athens Tech student looking for community. The Freshman Fellowship Kickoff on August 18 and Trivia Night at Molly’s on August 20 are specifically for freshmen. Transfer and returning students are welcome at the other Welcome Week events.
Meet the RUF staff
Staff members will be at every event ready to learn your name, introduce you to someone new, and help you know what is happening next.
Meet the full team →
Campus Minister
Campus Staff
Intern
Intern
Intern
Your first step can be small
You do not need to feel confident before you come. Let us know you are interested, or join GroupMe for the latest times and locations.
