Thousands of new and current students will head to McNeese State University on Monday, Aug. 25, for their first day of fall classes. To welcome students, McNeese has planned its annual Howdy Rowdy week, which runs today through Friday, Aug. 29.

Kedrick Nicholas, university student union and activities director, said a variety of activities are planned daily to give students a glimpse of the full experience they can have while at McNeese.

Nicholas said student organizations, university offices, academic departments, local businesses and community service agencies will be on campus all week to introduce themselves to students and give out information.

“We believe that through participating in activities such as our welcome week, students have the opportunity to network, meet and learn about new people as well as meet some of the faculty and staff on campus, which can always be a good resource,” Nicholas said.

“Also, many student activities are paid for through student fees, so beyond their tuition they are paying for these things as well.”

Nicholas said the first event, a welcome-back party, will start at 7 p.m. today in gym and quad area. He said there will be free food, take-home novelties, music and group competitions with prizes.

“It’s just another environment for them to socialize, meet new people and connect with returning students,” Nicholas said. “It’s a fun, engaging program to get them ready and have a good time right before school starts.”

Events for the rest of the week:

l Monday, Aug. 25 — Get Connected Day, 9 a.m.-noon, New Ranch.

l Tuesday, Aug. 26 — Student Organizations Fair, 9 a.m.-noon, New Ranch.

l Wednesday, Aug. 27 — Welcome Back Wednesday & Meet the Greeks, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., quad.

l Thursday, Aug. 28 — Campus Ministry Day, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., New Ranch.

l Friday, Aug. 29 — Community Day, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., New Ranch.

For more information, call the activities office at 475-5609.(Special to the American Press)