10 things every new Laker must know

GVSU move-in officially begins on Aug. 26, welcoming the Class of 2030 to campus for the start of a new academic year. Whether you’re brand new to campus or a seasoned Laker, this season can be full of adjustments to new living situations, class schedules and more. 

No matter what this new year looks like for you, the start of the fall semester boasts countless opportunities to push yourself out of your comfort zone and find a new place to belong on campus. 

Read on to learn how to find your community and succeed as a Laker!

Campus traditions

If you are a new Laker getting acclimated on campus, you’ll quickly pick up on some of the traditions that come with being a Laker. For instance, if you are walking near the Great Lakes Plaza, you’ll see that many people avoid walking underneath the Transformational Link, the blue structure outside of Au Sable Hall that was created by artist Gary Kulak. According to campus lore, if you walk “the wrong way” under the Transformational Link, you’ll fail all of your exams and will never graduate from Grand Valley. The origin of the tale itself is unknown, but many Lakers, both student and non-student, avoid walking underneath the Transformational Link altogether.

What does your student ID do?

Your student ID gains you access to valuable GVSU resources and facilities. Whether it’s scanning your ID to enter the Recreation Center for a workout or to enter a football game at Lubbers Stadium (did we mention all home games are free for students with a valid student ID? ), be sure to always have your student ID on you. When it comes to getting from Valley Campus to City Campus and beyond, all routes on The Rapid bus system are free for students with an ID . Free transportation is not the only perk available with your ID – check out this list of student discounts .

Interactive campus map

As you start to make your home on campus, be sure to explore as much as you can in the first few weeks to make your surroundings feel familiar. Explore academic buildings and to find your classrooms, learn the different housing buildings your future friends might call home and find what might be your new favorite study or hangout spot with your friends. GVSU’s interactive campus map is your go-to tool to help explore everything from the stunning ravines on the Valley Campus to the bustling downtown energy of the City Campus.

Resources to thrive

Challenges are inevitable during your time as a Laker, but you will never have to face them alone. As these challenges arise, be sure to lean on GVSU’s faculty, staff, programs and resources to find a way forward.

Knowledge Market

Grand Valley’s Knowledge Market houses the Library Research Center, Writing Center, Digital Creator Lab, Speech Lab, Resource Market and Tutoring and Reading Center. Whether you’re looking for help brainstorming a topic for a class project, how to use new software or equipment or a consultation on a speech you have coming up, GVSU’s Knowledge Market is a go-to resource full of specialized experts who are ready to help you thrive academically.

Student Accessibility Resources

Student Accessibility Resources helps Lakers thrive through creating a more inclusive and accessible campus. The website contains countless resources, from navigating food allergies on campus to walking through how to register for SAR resources to assistive technology training and so much more. See more resources and find out how to schedule an appointment on the Student Accessibility Resources website .

Counseling Center

With locations both on the Valley Campus and City Campus, the Counseling Center offers a variety of services and programming, including personal counseling, online screenings, emergency services, trainings, group events and more. For more information about their services and locations, visit the Counseling Center’s website .

Replenish Basic Needs Center

Replenish Basic Needs Center has two locations: one on the lower level of the Kirkhof Center on the Valley Campus and one on the third floor of the Center for Health Professions on the City Campus. Replenish offers perishable and non-perishable food items, personal care products and household items, as well as access to the university's laptop loan program. All members of the Laker community can utilize Replenish, and there are no income guidelines or requirements for enrolled students.

Need help? File a CARE Report

If you or another student are experiencing a non-academic hardship, all GVSU students, faculty and staff are encouraged to fill out a GVSU CARE referral. Reasons for filing a CARE referral can include personal or emotional distress, basic needs insecurity and well-being red flags. Once the report is submitted, GVSU’s CARE team will connect with the student in the appropriate manner to offer personalized support and resources. For more information about when and how to submit a CARE referral, visit the CARE website.

Laker Welcome Events

When it comes to building your life on campus, you get out what you put in. The kickoff of a new academic year is the perfect time to nudge yourself out of your comfort zone by trying a new club or getting to know some new friends. Grand Valley’s Laker Welcome events are specifically designed to set students up for success during the most impactful and formative weeks of their college experience.

There are two events that every new Laker should have on their radar. First is Laker Kickoff on Aug. 28 from 6 p.m.-11 p.m. The event will feature a pep rally-style new student welcome in Lubbers Stadium, a class of 2030 photo on the football field, a party on Kirkhof Lawn and, to close out the night, a drone and fireworks show. Second is Campus Life Night , hosted on Sept. 30 from 6 p.m.-8 p.m., where students can meet and interact with GVSU registered student organizations, campus departments and even local businesses and non-profits.

If these larger events feel overwhelming, there are many smaller events to help you meet other Lakers in a more relaxed environment. Try out Speed Friending with the Campus Activities Board to meet your new best friends, meet similar Lakers at more specialized events like the Commuter and Transfer Student Welcome , volunteer with other students at the Beach Clean-up in Grand Haven, meet others who live in your housing community during Housing Neighborhood Parties and more. See a full list of events on the Laker Welcome website .

Find your community

Whatever your interest, there is an opportunity for you to pursue it at GVSU. There are plenty of opportunities for you to get plugged in, but here are a few to get you started:

• Intramural Sports
• Registered Student Organizations
• Greek Life
• Student Employment/Internships
• Fitness and Wellness Programs
• Office of Multicultural Affairs
• Rainbow Resource Center
• Veterans Resource Center