Get Ready to Join Your Golden Flash Family at KSU Kickoff!
All new 2025 incoming students are invited to KSU Kickoff. (This includes transfer students and students with commuter status) During this one-of-a-kind welcome celebration, you will engage in various activities and events that will help you become more familiar with the Kent State University community, faculty and staff, make new friends and prepare to start off the fall 2025 semester. Some events are required to ensure that you start the semester successfully, while other events are optional based on your interests and needs.
Overview
KSU Kickoff runs from Thursday, Aug. 14, until Sunday, August 17. During KSU Kickoff 2025, students can expect to participate in a safe and engaging experience.
Information Regarding Required Events
The following events are required for all new incoming students: (this includes first-year and students with residential or commuter status)
- KSU Kickoff Residential Student Check-In | Thursday, Aug. 14, 3 - 8 p.m.
- KSU Kickoff Commuter Student Check-In | Friday, Aug. 15, 8 - 9 a.m.
- Dean's Welcome | Friday, Aug. 15, 9:30 - 10 a.m. | Dean's Welcome Locations
- Convocation | Friday, Aug. 15, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.
- Class of 2029 Group Photo - Friday, Aug. 15, 11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
- Flashes First Friday – Friday, Aug. 15, 2:30 - 5:30 p.m.
- Transfer Student Welcome – Sunday, Aug. 17, 3 - 5 p.m.
- Blastoff – Sunday, Aug. 17, 5 - 8 p.m.
All other KSU Kickoff events are optional but will play a critical role in helping you to meet new people and make connections to the university. Check out the KSU Kickoff Events schedule in Early August for details. Please note, some events require advanced registration.
Prepare for KSU Kickoff!
To prepare for KSU Kickoff you should:
- Download the KSU Kickoff app from your mobile device's app store
- Don't sweat the rest! At check-in, staff will help you navigate all things KSU Kickoff and find your first Flashes 101 class meeting location. (Meeting locations during KSU Kickoff vary by college and are not in the same location that your class will meet during the semester.)
If you have questions at any time, please don’t hesitate to email csi@kent.edu or call 330-672-2480.
4 Days
of activities
4,000+
students connecting safely
Establish
blue and gold pride
Move-In and/or KSU Kickoff Preparation
KSU Kickoff App
All first-year students should use the KSU Kickoff app during the welcome week experience. The KSU Kickoff app will guide you through the welcome week experience and will keep you informed of important updates during your first week on campus.
The KSU Kickoff app contains:
- A comprehensive Move-In Week and KSU Kickoff event calendar (including event registration)
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Shared Experience Location Finder
- Campus Maps
- And more!
Accommodations Requests
- During KSU Kickoff, there will be events and activities that may be difficult to participate in for students with accessibility considerations. If this may be a consideration for you, please reach out to our office and we are happy to coordinate the necessary support!
- Our office can be reached at csi@kent.edu and/or 330-672-2480.
Do you have questions about KSU Kickoff?
The Center for Student Involvement is here to help!