Signature NSO Events

Here are some of Penn’s most unique events that every new undergraduate Quaker should attend. They include many opportunities to learn about Penn, discover resources, and meet fellow classmates.

For a full list of NSO events, please visit our Events Calendar page.

New Student Resources Fair & Campus Express Center

Come to your “one-stop shop” for essential resources and services for all Penn students. Graduate and professional students are also invited to attend the New Student Resources Fair.


President and Provost’s Family Welcome

First-year families and students, join Interim President J. Larry Jameson and Provost John L. Jackson Jr. for remarks at the steps of College Hall.


Penn Spirit Day

Penn Spirit Day is on Thursday, August 22! The day’s events are all about celebrating our vibrant community, sharing time-honored traditions, and embracing the Quaker spirit. We invite you to wear your red and blue with pride and be part of the excitement around campus.


Penn Traditions: Highball to Hey Day

Penn Traditions wants to introduce every first-year student to all the fantastic events that will occur throughout their time at Penn through the Highball to Hey Day Carnival. Win prizes, learn about each tradition like Hey Day for Juniors and toast throwing at football games, eat food, and play games.


Class of 2028 Class Photo

The Class Photo is a perfect way to grab dinner with friends and meet some more of your fellow classmates! New students will take their class photo, by spelling your class year on Franklin Field.


An Evening at the Philadelphia Museum of Art

Join your classmates for a fun and inspiring evening at one of the world’s greatest art museums. Adventure through collections of Asian, European, American, and Contemporary art. Dinner served at the museum.


Convocation photo

Convocation & Convocation Dessert Reception

Come together to your official welcome as the Class of 2028! It is the evening before the first day of classes and is a Penn Tradition that dates in its modern form to around 1894.

After convocation, mingle and enjoy a delicious dessert reception to celebrate. Penn ID and NSO wristband required. No bags permitted.