Before students dive into classes, we welcome them to campus a few days before fall semester begins for KSU Kickoff!
KSU Kickoff is a multi-day welcome celebration that takes place Aug. 15-18 where students will engage in activities and events that will familiarize them with the Kent State University community, faculty and staff; make new friends; and prepare them to start the fall 2024 semester on the right foot. The goal of KSU Kickoff is to help students transition to the campus community and academic life before the official start of classes.
While students can choose from an array of events to attend based on their personal interests, there are a few events that are required to ensure that students are receiving some key instructions and information, including:
- KSU Kickoff Check-in (Aug. 15) for residential students
- KSU Kickoff Check-in (Aug. 16) for commuter students
- Dean’s Welcome (Aug. 16)
- Convocation (Aug. 16)
- First-Year and Transfer Lunch (Aug. 16)
- Common Conversation Shared Experience with Flashes 101 Classmates (Aug. 16)
Two events, Blastoff and Flashes First Thursday, are extremely popular and we highly recommend students attend:
Blastoff, held on Aug. 18 from 5-8 p.m., is regarded as one of the best connection events on the Kickoff schedule. This event has games and music, and allows new students to talk with returning students representing 350+ student organizations that will be tabling from Manchester Field to Risman Plaza.
Flashes First Thursday will take place on Thursday, Aug. 22 from 4-9 p.m. in award-winning downtown Kent. Students will be able to explore all the businesses downtown, win fun giveaways and listen to live music!
If you would like more information about KSU Kickoff, please visit our webpage or download the DKS Mobile app from your app store and select the “KSU Kickoff” tile on the home screen.
We are looking forward to helping your student get connected to people, programs and resources from the moment they step on campus!