University of Saskatchewan welcomes new students

It's back to school today for University of Saskatchewan students sort of.

More than 2,500 sharp young minds will begin their higher learning at the U of S with Orientation and Welcome Week Activities.

The overarching theme of the week might be having funand settling into a new environment, but there is a more serious side to things.

There will be sessions to help international students feel at home on campus, and events to help First Nations, Metis and Inuit students make connections and learn about the services available to them.

Here's a list of the activities this week:

Tuesday, Sept. 1

International Student Welcome
1-7 pm CST (check-in opens at noon)Neatby-Timlin Theatre, Arts 241.
Hosted by the International Student and Study Abroad Centre, this is a chance for students who are new to Canada to learn about services for international students available at the U of S and about getting settled in Saskatoon.

New First Nations, Mtis and Inuit Student Welcome
12-4 p.m. with a social event to follow.Aboriginal Students' Centre.
This event will offer a chance to make connections with other students on campus and the opportunity to learn about services and activities available to Aboriginal students at the U of S.

Wednesday, Sept. 2
Orientation
9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.,The Bowl.
Orientation is the official welcome for the newest members of the campus community. Students will gain general knowledge of campus, including where their classes are held, how to get involved on campus, and how to deal with academic problems, and participate in college-specific information sessions.

Thursday, Sept. 3
Dorm Burn
2 p.m., Nobel Plaza.
To promote fire safety on campus, the Saskatoon Fire Department will simulate an actual fire on campus by building a replica dorm room and setting it ablaze using common situational items (such as a lit cigarette or an over-heated laptop).

Carless Drive-In
9 p.m.,The Bowl.
This year's feature is Jurassic Park. Popcorn provided by Affinity Credit Union.

Thursday, Sept. 3-Friday, Sept. 4
USSU Welcome Week
Live music, DJs, food trucks and beer gardens in the Bowl, starting at 11 a.m. daily.

Friday, Sept. 4
Green and White Day
All of campus and members of the public are invited to show their pride by wearing the university'ssignature colours.

U of S Alumni Association Pancake Breakfast
8-10 a.m.,The Bowl.
Free for all U of S students, faculty, staff and alumni.

Alumni Association Huskies Homecoming Football Game
7 p.m., Griffiths Stadium in PotashCorp Park.
The U of S Huskies take on the University of Manitoba Bisons in the season opener.