The countdown is on: UCalgary gets ready for Move-In Day

The boxes are packed, cars are being loaded and, for 1,223 first-year residents, the countdown to their new home at the University of Calgary is officially on.

Move-In Day on Aug. 23 is one of the busiest days of the year for Residence Services. The incoming residents will join those already living on campus and others arriving throughout the week, bringing the total Residence population this fall to 2,894 students.

For many, it will be their first time living away from home. For families, it’s a day filled with excitement, pride and probably a few emotional goodbyes. It’s a first chance for residents to see their new home, meet roommates and neighbours, and get familiar with campus and new routines before classes begin.

Approximately 350 volunteers, including students, staff and members of UCalgary leadership, will be on hand to direct traffic, unload vehicles, answer questions and welcome families as they arrive.

“Move-In Day is a campus-wide effort; it has an incredible energy,” says Paul White, senior director with Ancillary Services. “Hundreds of people come together to help students settle in and start the year on a positive note. Our role is to give residents and their families a warm welcome, help them get settled and make sure they know there are people and supports here for them throughout their time living with us.”

More than a place to live

Living on campus offers vast access to a range of resources, including academic support, wellness programs, leadership opportunities, and convenient proximity to classes, recreation facilities and social events. Everything students need to thrive is just steps away, making campus living an easy choice to make.

Residence offers housing for first-year, second-year, upper-year and graduate students, with options ranging from traditional dorm-style rooms to studios and one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments.

All You Care To Eat

The Landing, in the Dining Centre, reopens on Move-In Day. The All You Care to Eat (AYCTE) meal plan ensures that every student has the flexibility and nourishment they need, offering fresh, diverse options to keep them energized throughout the academic year. It’s also a great and convenient spot for UCalgary staff to enjoy a meal on campus; simply drop in and pay the door rates.

All You Care To Eat dining is available to all students and staff on campus. Learn more about hours of operation, drop-in rate and meal plans on the Unicard website.

What’s happening on Move-In Day

There’s lots going on once the car is unloaded.

Outside the Aurora Quad, the Move-In Day Fair features information booths with knowledgeable staff and volunteers. They’ll be available to answer questions about living in Residence and campus life.

Alongside these supports and resources, students can also enjoy a variety of fun games and activities designed to help them connect and settle into campus living. 

For Residence Services, UCalgary leadership, staff and volunteers, the day is about welcoming residents and their families, helping them get settled and being there to answer questions along the way.

If you haven’t already signed up to volunteer, there’s still time for staff to join in and contribute their energy to this exciting day. Your involvement can make a real difference in helping students feel at home from the moment they arrive. Sign up today!