Welcome Week Introduction
Check-in
If you are flying directly to BJU from your home, schedule your flight to arrive in the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (airport code GSP)
Once you move in, you’re ready to check in!
Check-in is where you can pick-up your class T-shirt, booklet with schedule information, academically check-in and complete your schedule, meet your First-year advisor, look for a job, and so much more.
Check-in opens at 9:30 a.m. at the Davis Field House and finishes at 1:30 p.m. so you and your family can attend the 4 p.m. Presidential Welcome.
If you need special housing accommodations, please submit an accommodations request.
Residence Hall Move-In
You will receive an email to your BJU student email account Friday morning with your residence hall and room number. The residence halls will open at 8 a.m. There will be smiling faces and willing volunteers to help you move in from 8 a.m.–12 p.m.
Meet Your Academic Advisor & Register for Classes
Your academic advisor will be at the Davis Field House on Friday to answer any questions and guide your academic journey. You will need to see your advisor to finish registration for your classes and talk about your academic goals.
Placement Tests
Placement tests are given to determine the level of instruction that you should register for. You should take all placement tests that apply to you before registering for classes. Following each test, you will be informed which course(s) you should register for and/or waive.
If you have any questions about which placement test you need, please contact your First-year Advisor.
Auditions for Music Lessons and Groups
If you’re taking music lessons for the first time at BJU or if you want to join a music group, you’ll need to audition before you register for music lessons/groups. Music groups are open to all students, regardless of what academic program you’re in. If you’re planning to join a music group, you’ll be able to reserve space for it on your schedule in StudentCentral when you register for classes.
Welcome Week Highlights
Society Rush
Society Rush is a crazy time of year where you’ll choose a society to get involved in for the rest of your college experience. It's good to do your research ahead of time, take advantage of all the freebies you’re offered, and have a blast meeting and hanging out with other students.
Welcome Activity
We’re glad you’ve joined the Bruin Nation! To celebrate and to get to know you a little better, our Student Life team hosts a fun activity where you’ll meet other new students and enjoy games together.
Opening Exercises
Your official welcome as a BJU Bruin comes during this annual tradition. After you join the procession into the Founder’s Memorial Auditorium, you’ll be challenged by student leaders and hear your professors commit to supporting you through prayer and encouragement. This annual tradition not only sets the spiritual tone for the year, but also bookends your college experience. And most importantly, you’ll hear encouraging and challenging messages that will help orient your heart toward following Christ and cultivating a lasting relationship with Him.
Campus Opportunities Expo
Explore dozens of ways you can get involved in the student body at the Campus Opportunities Expo. All student organizations gather in one location and set up booths so you can find the opportunities that interest you. Make sure you talk with the student representatives and ask about openings in their group for you. Some may want you to complete your first year before you can join, but it’s good to let them know now that you’re interested.
Community Outreach Fair
Outreach in the local community is a vital part of your education at BJU. At the Community Outreach Fair you’ll have the opportunity to explore and sign up for events that will take place during the first few weeks of school.
Welcome to Welcome Week!
We’re thrilled you’ve chosen to become a student at BJU! College is challenging but also incredibly rewarding. Wherever you attend, college brings excitement and pressure from change—and BJU is no exception.
Learn How to Learn
At BJU, our goal is to help shape you as a whole person. Your classes will stretch your thinking in new ways. One of the most essential skills you’ll develop is learning how to learn.
- In the information age, the real challenge isn't finding information; it's discerning what's important.
- Professors will help discipline your thinking through a biblical worldview and strengthen your ability to engage deeply, beyond quick media clips.
- Chapel services and society life groups provide opportunities to apply disciplined thinking personally and spiritually.
Build Meaningful Relationships
At BJU, you’ll build lasting relationships beyond classmates and residence hall neighbors.
- Faculty and staff genuinely want to know you and support your transition.
- Professors see themselves as mentors and encourage you to connect during office hours and campus interactions.
- Academic advisors/coaches provide guidance and encouragement.
- Extracurricular activities, outreach, and community service open doors to friendships with students who share your passions.
Thrive in Your First Year
We’re committed to your success, providing structured support from day one.
- UNI 101: Pathways, guided by faculty coaches and peer leaders, is designed to help you navigate your first year and beyond.
Choosing BJU—a Christian liberal arts college committed to holistic growth—is your first step toward an education that deepens your faith, knowledge, and skills. Take ownership and thrive in your first year—OWN IT!
