JMU offers a variety of Pre-Weeks of Welcome experiences for incoming First-Year and Transfer students. Pre-Weeks of Welcome experiences are not required and may have a cost associated with them. Below is an overview of each experience that you can choose from.
Registration for most of these programs ends on Friday, July 24.
Pre-Weeks of Welcome Experiences allow students to:
- Enhance your transition experience
- Make connections with new students and JMU staff in a small group setting
- Learn about campus resources and how to access them
- Early move-in access prior to Weeks of Welcome
Dukes Making a Difference (DMAD)
DMAD will allow you to connect with other service-mined students while volunteering with local nonprofits. Learn about Harrisonburg’s most pressing social issues. No experience necessary; come ready to learn and serve together! Registration costs include transportation and food. Registration closes on Friday, July 24.
Madison Orientation Adventure Trip (MOAT)
MOAT is a three-night, four-day adventure program designed for new students. Students will meet up with welcoming and knowledgeable student trip leaders to tent camp, rock climb, hike, and canoe in the Shenandoah Valley. No experience is necessary! There are multiple MOAT trips throughout the summer as well as an session that allows you to move onto campus early and takes place just before classes start. Registration closes on Friday, July 24.
Mosaic Connections (MC)
MC, hosted by the Center for Multicultural Student Services, is designed to empower, support and inspire student success by fostering a strong sense of belonging and personal growth. Through meaningful connections, access to campus and community resources and opportunities for holistic development, students will build supportive networks, develop skills for academic and personal success and explore the value of shared spaces in a welcoming JMU environment. Registration closes on Friday, July 24.
Business Bound: First-Generation College of Business Students Only
Business Bound is a comprehensive program offering support for first-generation students pursuing a major within the College of Business. Through interactive workshops, mentorship and hands-on experiences, you'll strengthen your academic skills, explore career pathways and get to know the faculty, staff and peers who are ready to support your journey. You'll also participate in fun social activities and become familiar with key campus resources! Registration closes on Monday, June 1.
Dukes Career Connections (DCC): Transfer Students Only
During Dukes Career Connections, you will connect your academic and career plans; build community through connections with peers, alumni and employers; and set achievable goals for your success. All are welcome whether you are sure about your career path or are still developing your academic and career goals. Registration closes on Friday, July 24.
International Student Orientation: International Students Only
Join International Student Orientation to facilitate a smoother transition to JMU. Get to know and experience college life on an American campus with other international students. Navigate these important first steps in higher education together alongside international education professionals and peer international student leaders.
Madison Momentum: In-State/Pell-Eligible Students Only
The Madison Momentum is a 2.5 day bridge experience where you move-in early to campus, start learning in a college classroom, get familiar with the campus layout, and begin using campus resources. Getting a head start on college basics can help you start your JMU career and fall semester successfully!
Registration for Madison Momentum Coming Soon!
Voyage: First Year Honors Students Only
Voyage is your chance to get anchored in the Honors College before the rest of campus arrives. Move in early, meet fellow Honors students, and hit the ground running with skills and conversations that will shape your first year and beyond. This year, Cole Baker Bagwell will guide us through what it means to be human in an AI-driven world. Voyage 2026 will help us understand our own minds, develop our human agency, and empower us to approach AI with clarity and confidence. Registration closes on Friday, July 24.
Enhance Your Orientation and Transition Experience
Can't participate in a Pre-Weeks of Welcome Experience or want to enhance your transition experience? Consider taking UNST 110: New Dukes 101! New Dukes 101 is a 1-credit course designed to help students in their transition to college. The class covers topics including campus resources, learning strategies, time management, goal setting, career exploration and other skills that lead to academic success. Students can register for UNST 110: New Dukes 101 during course enrollment in June.