BLOG: Admissions Director's Blog Class of 2026

Let the packing begin!

It's August and move-in days are just a few weeks away! As you start to make your packing list, check out our list of room contents and suggested things to bring.

Plus, here’s a quick reminder of the important dates to come:

  • Thursday, Aug. 11: You’ll receive an email with information on how to sign up for your move-in time slot. Be sure to sign up and show up on time so everything moves smoothly.
  • Sunday, Aug. 21: 8 a.m. to noon – IMPACT participants move in and start their program.
  • Tuesday, Aug. 23: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Leadership Safari participants move in. Get some sleep, your safari starts on Wednesday morning.
  • Friday, Aug. 26: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. – General move-in for first-year students and new transfer students.
  • Saturday, Aug. 27: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. – General move-in for returning students/campus apartment residents/transfer students.
  • Sunday, Aug. 28: Move-in day for any student who does not need to participate in Campus Life 101 and who wishes to move in on Sunday.
  • Monday, Aug. 29: Classes begin!

What to do on campus after you’re all moved in

Once you've caught your breath and taken a minute or two to cool down, there’s plenty going on around campus and in downtown Mount Pleasant. Be sure to take some time to get out and about.

MainStage! Sunday, Aug. 28, 4 to 7 p.m.

This long-standing CMU tradition is the largest student organization fair on campus. Head for Franklin Street to the east of the seal in front of Warriner Hall. The street will be lined with all kinds of registered student organizations (RSOs) that would love to have you sign up as their newest member. Join in and make new friends across campus in club sports, Greek Life, pre-professional organizations, service-oriented groups, hobby-related clubs and more. There will be plenty of giveaways and a prize drawing!

Get Acquainted Day Wednesday, Aug. 31, 4 to 7 p.m.

Everyone is invited to Warriner Mall for music with a live DJ, free food, performances, dancing and a chance to socialize and connect with others in a celebration of our fired-up community spirit.

Student Activity Center

Yes, the SAC on the south end of campus will be open during move-in. With a fitness center, pool, courts and tracks, you can start or continue a fitness program beginning with your first weekend on campus. For hours, check out the University Recreation Facebook page, URecCMU.

Food

Starting on Aug. 25, all dining halls will be open.

Of course, you can always stroll around campus, discover where things are, find your classrooms, check out the library, and explore the bookstore and food court in the University Center. Everywhere you go is a chance to meet your next new friend and learn about all the services available to you on campus.

What's happening in downtown Mount Pleasant

Farmers’ Market Saturday, Aug. 27, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

If you’re a fan of fresh produce and baked goods, stop by the Farmers’ Market. On Saturdays, it’s on Broadway between Main and University streets. There’s another one on Thursdays from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Island Park South Shelter.

Shopping and food

Saturday, Aug. 27, would be your best day to check out shopping and dining in downtown Mount Pleasant. Head north on Main Street from the north end of campus, and you can walk to the center of town in 15 minutes. With 135 businesses, shops, galleries, restaurants and cafes, you’re sure to find it well worth the walk.

Island Park and the GKB Riverwalk Trail

While you’re downtown, relax under the trees in Island Park and get your first glimpse of the Chippewa River. There’s something for everyone from a skate park to pickleball courts. The 1.8-mile Gregory K. Baderschneider Riverwalk Trail starts in Island Park and follows the river south through Nelson, Mill Pond and Chipp-A-Waters parks, all places you’ll want to visit during your time here.

If you forgot something, we have Walmart, Target and Meijer all located along Mission Road, our main north/south thoroughfare. Along Mission are many other stores and restaurants including Staples for technical gear, Ulta Beauty, Ric’s for groceries and TJ Maxx for room decor.

Start making those lists, pack too many things, and get ready for the adventure to begin!

Fire Up for classes!

Blog: Admissions Director's Blog Class of 2026 posted | Last Modified: | Author: by Jennifer DeHaemers, Vice President, Student Recruitment and Retention | Categories: Admissions
The views and opinions expressed in these blog pages are strictly those of the page author.