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Weeks of Welcome

By Johnny Andrews and Jon Gardiner, University Communications

After a quieter summer period, Carolina begins to buzz again when students return to Chapel Hill for the beginning of the fall semester. As soon as move-in starts, you’ll see Tar Heels strolling along brick pathways, learning and partaking in Carolina traditions and catching up with friends.

Check out scenes from the past week.

Students running through an arm tunnel made by other students.

(Jon Gardiner/UNC-Chapel Hill)

The excitement of coming to Carolina is on full display as students participating in Carolina Kickoff are welcomed to campus. The kickoff, established in 1946, is the oldest committee in the Campus Y. The purpose is to empower students to break down barriers, explore new concepts and make an impact on campus.

People using a cross-walk during move-in on the campus of UNC-Chapel Hill with the Old Well seen in the background.

(Johnny Andrews/UNC-Chapel Hill)

While this will be Jackson Lackey’s third year on campus as an undergraduate, it’s his first time living in Old West Residence Hall, built in 1823. Lackey was fortunate to have help from his parents while moving in, including his father, who also lived in Old West as an undergraduate.

Two stduents carrying a couch.

(Jon Gardiner/UNC-Chapel Hill)

The hustle and bustle of move-in on Stadium Drive included students getting help from family and friends as they unload all the necessities for living on campus, couch included.

Students playing mini golf at the Undergraduate Library.

(Johnny Andrews/UNC-Chapel Hill)

One of the few times when cheering is allowed — and even encouraged — inside the Undergraduate Library is during the annual miniature golf event, with an obstacle-filled course set up on all three floors.

First-year students doing cheers at a pep rally event at Kenan Stadium.

(Johnny Andrews/UNC-Chapel Hill)

At a pep rally in Kenan Stadium, incoming students learned how to cheer the Carolina way, watched the Marching Tar Heels perform and heard from head football coach Mack Brown.

Three students taking a group photo at FallFest

(Jon Gardiner/UNC-Chapel Hill)

FallFest is a time for students to reconnect with old friends and make new ones as they check out campus club options. The evening included club demonstrations, a campus information booth, swag giveaways and food trucks serving up everything from vegan rice bowls to corn dogs.

Student walking up to the fountain of the Old Well.

(Johnny Andrews/UNC-Chapel Hill)

Carolina legend has it that a sip from the Old Well on the first day of classes brings Tar Heels good luck for the semester ahead — even a perfect GPA. Each year thousands of students line up at the well for First Sip, ready to test out the theory.

Chancellor Lee H. Roberts speaking to students waiting in line to take a sip from the Old Well.

(Jon Gardiner/UNC-Chapel Hill)

This year’s First Sip featured one notable new Tar Heel out and about on FDOC. Chancellor Lee H. Roberts stopped by on his way to a meeting, introducing himself to those waiting their turn in line.

Two students hugging on the first day of classes.

(Johnny Andrews/UNC-Chapel Hill)

FDOC is also a great time for reunions as students meet up with old friends they missed over the summer.

A student a cappella group performing in front of an audience on Polk Place on the campus of UNC-Chapel Hill at Sunset Serenade.

(Jon Gardiner/UNC-Chapel Hill)

FDOC concluded with the Sunset Serenade, an a cappella show on the steps of South Building at Polk Place. Cooler temperatures were a welcome relief to wrap up several days of hot and humid move-in weather.

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