For many Sacred Heart University (SHU) students, the first few weeks of the semester can feel like a lot. Between new classes, new schedules and, for first-year students, an entirely new campus, it can be difficult to figure out where you fit in.
The Sacred Heart University “Just SHU It” fair sign. An annual event highlighting campus clubs and organizations.
Contributed by Daniel Passapera, Sacred Heart University
That is where SHU’s First 50 Days comes in. The program has been a part of SHU since 2019 and has hosted roughly 2,800 events, averaging more than 400 programs each year.
The annual program runs from the end of Welcome Weekend through the first 50 days of the academic year. This program is designed to help students meet new people, get involved and become more comfortable on campus.
“The First 50 creates a campus environment where students of all backgrounds, with various interests, can find community with their peers in the first several weeks of their college experience,” said Student Life Graduate Assistant Anna Macaulay. “Through a wide variety of events, programs and opportunities to get involved, the First 50 Days helps students build connections, explore campus resources and begin finding their place within the SHU community.”
This year, the First 50 Days began with the Class of 2030 Kickoff on Aug. 29. The event brought students together on the Chapel Quad for a DJ, lawn games, food trucks, giveaways and the traditional lighting of the Chapel of the Holy Spirit’s bell tower at 9 p.m.
Since then, the program has continued to offer a mix of social, academic and wellness events. Students can attend activities such as Music and ‘Mallows, Succulents for Success, pickleball, Dogs on the Quad, Salsa Night and Music Bingo and Karaoke Night. There are also academic opportunities, including study nights, advising events and programs through the Center for Teaching and Learning.
“I have had great experiences so far with the First 50 Days,” said freshman Gabriella Panzarella. “I think that it is really great that they have so many activities and events for new students because you can meet so many new people.”
The variety of events that the First 50 Days offers are part of what makes the program different from traditional orientation events. Students do not have to limit themselves to activities aimed specifically at first-year students. Instead, the First 50 Days gives students of all class years a chance to try something new.
“Even though I’m not a first-year student anymore, I still think that these events are a great way to get involved on campus,” said sophomore Sophia Monteforte.
For students who may not know where to start, the answer can be as simple as showing up. Most First 50 Days events are open to everyone and do not require an RSVP unless otherwise stated.
With more events still to come, students have plenty of opportunities to make the most of their First 50 Days at SHU—and find a new favorite part of campus along the way.
