Student engagement starts on day one of the fall semester during Welcome Week, when Student Life hosts events designed to help students connect with one another and discover opportunities across campus.

Welcome Week Schedule

First Weeks of Classes

The first weeks of college can be exhilarating and overwhelming. New students are learning campus systems, finding classrooms, meeting instructors, and balancing responsibilities outside of school. Through Welcome Week events, student organizations, leadership opportunities, and one-on-one support, Student Life helps students build connections that make navigating college a little easier.

What Does Student Life Do?

Students can build skills without being demeaned. We give students the opportunity to try in a safe place.

Kyra Engen

Title/Coordinator for Student Engagement and Belonging/Company

While many students know Student Life as the office behind campus events, its work extends far beyond programming. Student Life supports student organizations, student government, leadership development, and basic-needs initiatives that help students succeed both inside and outside the classroom. From connecting students with resources to making prepared meals more accessible, the team focuses on creating a supportive environment where students can thrive.

During the 2025-2026 academic year, Student Life hosted approximately 50 campus and off-campus events, providing more than one opportunity each week for students to get involved. Whether attending a dance, participating in a leadership workshop, joining a student organization, or exploring community resources, students can find experiences that match their interests and schedules. Best of all, these events are free, funded through student fees paid at the beginning of each semester.

Student feedback helps shape programs and services, ensuring activities reflect what students actually want. While foster students often prefer participating in broader campus communities, engagement among veterans, service members, and military families has increased, creating opportunities for additional programming and support.

Beyond building community, Student Life helps students develop leadership skills, gain confidence, and discover new interests. Through student government, student organizations, and leadership retreats, students are encouraged to try new things, learn from challenges, and grow in a supportive environment.

For updates on events and involvement opportunities, follow @SaintPaulStudentLife on Instagram or stop by the Student Life Office.