Here’s to the week where incoming freshmen will now be referred to as “WOWies.” Embrace this new name because though orientation is only a week long, it will follow you for the rest of the year.
Week of Welcome (WOW) is your chance to enjoy a whole week of college fun without having to go through the actual “school” part. Make the most of it, because the quarter system will have midterms and tests bombarding you before you know it.
According to computer science sophomore Jeevan Vase, WOW is a new college experience, so it’s important to make the best of it.
“You should always be friendly, go to all the events, and make sure you enjoy yourselves,” Vase said.
1. Try out as many activities as you can
During WOW, the opportunities are endless. Your WOW leaders will show you everything that Cal Poly has to offer: from hikes to kayaking in Morro Bay to eating at Splash Café. According to business administration sophomore Yasi Agah, it’s important to experience everything during WOW.
“It’s really easy to sleep through an early morning hike or skip out on an afternoon game because you’re tired, but it’s definitely the type of week where you get out what you put in,” Agah said.
2. Skip the parties
Instead, make the most of WOW by going on late-night runs to In-n-Out or having a scary movie marathon with your WOW group.
Business administration sophomore Lindsay Kroner had an unforgettable WOW experience because she went to all her events.
“You have four years to party and only one WOW, so go to as many events as you can,” Kroner said. “I met some good friends during WOW that I wouldn’t have gotten close to otherwise.”
3. Get out of your comfort zone
College is all about new experiences, a lot of which will happen during WOW. You should go into WOW with an open mind, Kroner said.
“College is unlike anything else you’ve ever experienced, so you shouldn’t back out of something just because it’s a little out of your comfort zone,” Kroner said. “Rip up your cool card as soon as you walk through the door because everyone is on the same boat as you.”
4. Connect with your WOW group
This is your opportunity to really get to know the people that you are going to be living with for the next year.
Your WOW leaders will be able to provide you with firsthand experience from their first year. If you ever need help throughout the year, they will be there to offer advice or provide scheduling tips.
WOW should not be taken for granted. It is more than just a week of orientation; it’s the quintessential week to explore everything Cal Poly has to offer.
“The school year isn’t the same as WOW and you won’t ever have another chance to just have a week of pure fun,” Agah said.
5. Enjoy yourself
WOW is a chance for you to discover your home for the next four years. You will get the chance to learn the ins and outs of Cal Poly and explore Downtown San Luis Obispo.
It’s important to remember to enjoy yourself while exploring with your WOW group.
“The more effort you put in, the more fun you’ll have and the better friendships you can form from it,” Agah said.