To our students,
Welcome to the start of an extraordinary—and historic—new academic year! Whether you are setting foot on campus for the very first time or returning to continue your journey, I hope your summer recharged your spirit and lit a spark for what lies ahead.
This year is exceptionally momentous: We are proudly celebrating CWRU’s Bicentennial! By being here today, you are stepping into a 200-year legacy of trailblazers, innovators and leaders.
Every year, this campus comes fully alive because of you—your fierce curiosity, your passion for discovery and your drive to leave the world better than you found it. As I reflect on my time at CWRU, I am continually blown away by the creativity and grit of our student body. Our faculty and staff share that same fire, and together, we are here to help you turn big ideas into real-world impact.
Before the momentum of the semester takes off, let’s make one thing clear: You are welcome here. You belong here. You are supported here. And you’ve got this.
To help you thrive from day one and make the most of this year, keep these game-changers in mind:
Celebrate 200 years of history and enjoy our many traditions: This is a milestone year, and we want you right in the middle of the action! Immerse yourself in our campus traditions and Bicentennial celebrations. Be sure to mark your calendar for our signature Homecoming kickoff event, the Blue Bash, where we'll gather on Freiberger Field for an unforgettable evening of food, fun, student performances and fireworks. And don't miss the chance to show your Spartan pride at the Legacy Showcase Pep Rally in the Veale Athletic Center! Join the community for our Throwback Weekend basketball games for free food, entertainment and a chance to score limited-edition gear highlighting mascots of the past and present.
Dive into the community: Breakthroughs don't happen in isolation. Get involved, jump into research or join one of our student organizations. Check out CampusGroups to explore events, find your crew and pursue what lights you up. Pay attention to the weekly FYI and Thrive newsletters to stay in-the-know on events, resources and opportunities across campus!
Fuel your foundation: Your big ambitions require energy and balance. Prioritize your mental, physical and emotional health. Here, asking for help is a strategy for strength. University Health and Counseling Services and the Dean of Students Office are always here to help you navigate tough moments. And, know that faculty and staff are all excellent resources if you have questions, need some direction or just want to talk.
Set bold goals: Define what success looks like for you this semester—academically, personally and professionally. Leverage Undergraduate Advising Support, the Center for Career Success and Academic Resources to map out your roadmap.
Build your network: Introduce yourself to your professors, connect deeply with advisors and make friends outside your usual circle. College is about expansion, and the connections you build here will empower you for a lifetime.
Above all, remember that an entire community of champions is in your corner, cheering you on.
I can’t wait to see what you accomplish during this landmark year. Welcome back!
Warmly,
Travis T. Apgar
Vice President for Student Affairs
