The time has finally arrived!
Your student is headed to Kent State as a newly minted Golden Flash. Your years of preparing for this moment have finally paid off, and as parents and families, you’re probably asking, "what is next for my student?"
Research shows that what transpires over the first six weeks of college may directly determine whether a student successfully graduates. To ensure your student's success, over the next several weeks, activities and events will be held throughout campus to get your student acclimated to their new home, meet new people and get involved.
Here are some highlighted events:
KSU KICKOFF
KSU Kickoff is a huge, multi-day celebration of our students' arrival on campus! It takes place after residence hall move-in and runs from Aug. 15-18. During KSU Kickoff, students can expect to participate in several engaging experiences, including:
- Their College Dean's Welcome
- Convocation
- Class of 2028 Photo
- Food truck showcase
- RecWell Block Party/Dive-In Movie
- FAB Picnic/Outdoor Movie
For more information and a list of events, visit our KSU Kickoff webpage.
BLASTOFF
Capping off the end of KSU Kickoff week is Blastoff on Sunday, Aug. 18. During this pre-semester celebration, students can meet with and explore our 350+ student clubs and organizations, enjoy great food, get free merch and attend a live concert at the end of the night right here on campus!
FLASHES FIRST THURSDAY
In partnership with KSU, the Kent Area Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Kent, Flashes First Thursday is an event that introduces students to the award-winning and vibrant downtown Kent. Students will be provided a bingo card featuring businesses and organizations to complete and turn in for a variety of prizes. This event also features a DJ and live music, a guest appearance from our mascot Flash, appearances from student athletes and more! This event will be held Thursday, Aug. 22 from 5-8 p.m. and transportation will be provided.
STUDENT EMPLOYMENT FAIR
The Office of Career Development and Exploration will host a Student Employment Fair on Friday, Aug. 23 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. on the second floor of the Kent Student Center, room 218. Your student can explore on-campus employment opportunities by networking with departments that are actively hiring. Students can learn about the hiring process and job opportunities directly from on-campus employers.
PARENTS AND FAMILIES GAME DAY EXPERIENCE
Golden Flashes Football will host its first home game against the Red Flashes of Saint Francis University on Saturday, Sept. 7 at 2:30 p.m. at Dix Stadium. Family members of all ages are welcome to attend. For more information, visit the Parents and Families Engagement website.
BLACK SQUIRREL FESTIVAL
A Kent State University tradition for over 39 years, the annual Black Squirrel Festival will take place on Friday, Sept. 20. The Black Squirrel Festival is a can't-miss event with food, music, vendors and more! Black Squirrel Festival is a great opportunity for students to learn more about the Kent community, and another perfect opportunity to branch out and make new friends.
PARENTS AND FAMILIES APPRECIATION WEEKEND
Mark your calendar for Parents and Families Appreciation Weekend, Sept. 20-22! For more information, visit our parents and families webpage.
Your student's first few weeks at Kent will be full of smiling faces, things to do and places to visit. Please encourage your student to explore, make new friends and take every opportunity they can to branch out. Their circle of influence has widened and a whole world of opportunities awaits. Remember, they are Kent State Golden Flashes, and so are you! Let the adventures begin!