What is the Laker Familia Welcome program?

Who is invited to participate in the Laker Familia welcome program?

Do I have to live on campus in order to be a part of the Laker Familia Welcome?

Do I have to speak Spanish to be a part of the Laker Familia Welcome?

What are some of the benefits of attending the Laker Familia Welcome?

Do I have to attend all three days of the Laker Familia Welcome?

Is there a cost associated with the Laker Familia Welcome?

How does the Laker Familia Welcome make a difference?

Where can I register to be a part of the Laker Familia Welcome?

 

 

What is the Laker Familia Welcome?

The Laker Familia Welcome is a three-day experience designed to introduce new GVSU students to the campus, as well as the resources and services that support their academic, cultural, and emotional well-being. This program offers an excellent opportunity to connect with Grand Valley's dedicated and involved faculty, staff, and peer mentors, aiding in building a sense of community on campus.

After completing the welcome, participants will be automatically enrolled in the Laker Connections – Laker Familia Program. This year-long program will further familiarize students with resources that enhance their academic, cultural, and emotional well-being. Laker Familia promotes meaningful interactions aimed at improving students' sense of belonging. Through this program, students will connect with various student organizations and participate in events such as Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations, Día de Muertos, dances, and César Chávez celebrations, among others!

Who is invited to participate in the Laker Familia Welcome?

All new students that are registered to begin classes in the Fall semester are invited to the Laker Familia Welcome. Close family members and friends are also invited to the Welcome kickoff and lunch.

Do I have to live on campus in order to be a part of the Welcome?

No, students do not have to live on campus. Commuters are welcome to attend the kickoff reception and all of the workshops. 

Do I have to speak Spanish to be a part of the Welcome?

No, Spanish is not a requirement. Many of the students that have participated in past Welcomes are not bilingual. However, we do offer a bilingual (English/Spanish) welcome during the reception of Laker Familia Kick-Off.

What are some of the benefits of attending the Welcome?
Students have a unique opportunity to make new friends, meet faculty and staff mentors, and learn about campus resources. 

Do I have to attend all three days of the Welcome?
Students are strongly encouraged to attend all three days of the Welcome in order to take advantage of many of the Laker Familia benefits. Exceptions will be made on a case by case basis.

Is there a cost associated with the Welcome?

No. The Laker Familia Welcome is free. The program is supported by the Office of Multicultural Affairs.

How does the Laker Familia Welcome make a difference?
Students who participate in Laker Familia build stronger connections at GVSU, which helps them stay and graduate from GVSU. Laker Familia students also have a higher GPA and a better retention rate than non-participating Laker Familia students. 

Where I can register to be a part of the Welcome?
Student can register at www.gvsu.edu/lakerfamilia or by calling the Office of Multicultural Affairs at (616) 331-2177.