🌵 Signature Sessions (Required)
Every new Wildcat is automatically registered for our two Signature Sessions: Next Stop: Academic Unit Welcome and Wildcat Today, Wildcat Forever: New Student Convocation. These required experiences are the foundation of Destination Arizona and are designed to prepare you for a successful start at the University of Arizona.
⭐ Supporting Sessions (Recommended & Personalized)
To help you get started, we've already added several of our most popular Supporting Sessions to your schedule, including the Resource Fair, Cats Kick-Off, and Evening Oasis. You'll also see any additional Supporting Sessions you've already registered for based on your interests. These optional experiences allow you to customize your weekend by exploring topics like student involvement, campus resources, wellness, academic success, and more.
Over the next several weeks, we'll continue sharing important tips and reminders through your University of Arizona email to help you make the most of your Destination Arizona experience.
Details are subject to change. Mandatory program session times along with the opportunity to build your personalized schedule will be released on July 8 via your Destination Arizona Student Portal. Keep an eye on your University email for more information.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 20
RESOURCE FAIR
SUPPORTING SESSION - RECOMMENDED
Join our vibrant Resource Fair, where campus departments, student organizations, and community partners come together to support your success. Discover everything from academic tools and wellness resources to leadership opportunities and social clubs. It's your one-stop shop to get connected, get inspired, and make the most of your University of Arizona experience!
WORKSHOPS
SUPPORTING SESSION - PERSONALIZED
Discover the resources that will help you succeed at Arizona. Destination Arizona workshops cover essential topics like financial aid, health and wellness, campus safety, sustainability, student involvement, and more. Led by campus experts, these sessions are designed to equip you with practical knowledge, answer your questions, and connect you to the people and services that will support your Wildcat journey from day one. Students and guests are encouraged to attend.
cats kick-off
SUPPORTING SESSION - RECOMMENDED
Join your fellow incoming classmates at Casino Del Sol Stadium for a taste of an Arizona Football gameday atmosphere at Cats Kickoff! 🐻⬇️ Don't miss your chance to hear from Coach Brennan, Arizona Football student-athletes, and other Arizona Athletics coaches and players. You will also have the opportunity to engage with our Arizona Spirit Squads 📣 and get your first look at the University of Arizona Marching Band, The Pride of Arizona and their 2026 show, RAYE!
Most importantly, Cats Kickoff is your chance to step foot on the turf of Casino Del Sol Stadium for your Class Photo 📸 with all of your peers forming a giant human Block A right on the football field. You'll get an exclusive Cats Kickoff shirt, and hear all things you need to know about Arizona Athletics and joining ZonaZoo for your journey at the University of Arizona.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 21
Next Stop: Academic Unit Welcome
SIGNATURE SESSION
Next Stop is your first step into academic life at the University of Arizona—and it's more than just a meeting, it’s your launchpad to success. During these dynamic sessions, you'll connect with the people who will guide and support you throughout your journey: faculty, advisors, current students, and new peers from your academic college.
Get a head start on what to expect in the classroom with engaging presentations on academic expectations, and discover the vibrant community that will shape your experience. Through interactive activities, Q&A panels, and meaningful conversations, you’ll begin building the connections that turn a big campus into your home.
This is your moment to explore, engage, and energize your transition into Wildcat life. Next Stop: Your future. Your community. Your University of Arizona.
Small Groups
SUPPORTING SESSION - PERSONALIZED
Join a CATnnections small group and kickstart your Wildcat experience with a supportive crew of fellow new students! Hosted by current University of Arizona leaders known as DAZLs (Destination Arizona Leaders), these groups are designed to help you build friendships, ask questions, and gain valuable insights from students who know the ins and outs of life at U of A. With about 35 new Wildcats in each group, you’ll have the perfect space to connect, share stories, and start feeling right at home on campus. Don’t miss this chance to make meaningful connections early!
SATURDAY, AUGUST 22
Campus Mixers
SUPPORTING SESSION - PERSONALIZED
Get to know the University of Arizona like a pro at our Campus Mixers! These fun, open-house events give new students a chance to explore important campus resources, meet the friendly staff behind the scenes, and learn how to make the most of everything U of A has to offer. Whether it’s wellness, academic support, or student life, Campus Mixers help you feel comfortable and confident navigating campus. Swing by, ask questions, grab some swag, and start building connections that will support you throughout your Wildcat journey!
WILDCAT TODAY, WILDCAT FOREVER: NEW STUDENT Convocation
SIGNATURE SESSION | 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Kick off your Wildcat journey at Wildcat Today, Wildcat Forever: New Student Convocation! This signature Arizona tradition officially welcomes you to the University of Arizona 🎓🐻⬇️ This program highlights your college experience, faculty connections, and the incredible research opportunities available to you across campus. 🔬📚
You’ll hear from university leaders and academic voices who will help you explore what’s possible in your field from day one. We’ll also showcase how undergraduates engage in hands-on research, creative inquiry, and real-world discovery that makes an impact 🌟
This is more than a welcome, it’s the start of your academic journey, your curiosity, and your connection to a community of scholars. Your journey starts here. Your future begins now. 🚀
Evening Oasis
SUPPORTING SESSION - RECOMMENDED
The grand finale to Destination Arizona! Join us for food, fun and music! To participate in all the fun that Evening Oasis has to offer be sure to fill out the Liability Waiver found in your Destination Arizona portal.
IMPORTANT Evening Oasis is only open to new students registered for Destination Arizona – non-incoming students or guests will not be allowed entry.