Laker Connections Welcomes
Welcome
We are looking forward to your arrival on campus this fall and would like to extend an invitation for you to participate in Grand Valley State University’s Laker Connections Welcome programs. These welcomes are designed 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. These programs offer 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.
Laker Connections Welcome Programs
Laker Connections FAQ
What is the cost?
This program is free of cost! OMA will provide you with snacks, refreshments, or meals if activity is outside dining hall hours or you do not have a meal plan.
What are the Laker Connections Welcome requirements?
- Confirm enrollment for Fall semester at GVSU
- Have signed up and attended GVSU Summer Orientation
- Complete the Laker Connections Welcome Registration Form
- Commit to fully attend the Laker Connections Welcome from start to finish
What are the benefits affiliated with Laker Connections year-long Programs?
In addition to the activities listed above, our programs offer:
- Opportunities to connect after move-in throughout the year
- Expansion of networks
- Leadership development opportunities
- Above all, making lasting friendships and your first college memories in a supportive community that understands your needs!
What are my responsibilities as participant of the Laker Connections year-long Program?
The Welcome and year-round programs are guided by learning agreements that outline expectations. While this is not comprehensive, we find especially important the items below:
- Commit to engagements as outlined (students will get to review)
- If you cannot attend an engagement, please notify the LC Lead, mentor, peer lead, or ambassadors so you are accounted for at all times
- Uphold all GVSU student code of conduct standards (whether on or off campus)
- Respect the human dignity of ALL program participants
I do not identify as Black/African American, Native/Indigenous, Latinx/Hispanic, or Asian/Asian-American, Pacific Islander, Desi-American. Can I still attend?
While these programs are centered around the experiences of the groups listed above, our Laker Connections are designed for ALL our GV students and every student is welcome to participate in our programs to learn, engage and celebrate through a cultural lens!
I do not speak Spanish, Indigenous, or any languages in the AAPIDA community; can I still participate?
YES!!! While you may encounter a few Spanish or Anishinaabemowin words like familia (family) or chi miigwech (big thank you), all content will be delivered in English or with its corresponding translation or equivalent concepts in English.
How do I know if the Laker Connections Welcome/Programs are right fit for me?
Signing up for a program that starts on the very first day of move in can be a daunting commitment. We completely understand, in fact, most of our OMA team were the first ones to earn a Bachelors or Master’s degree in our family or communities. We design our programs to promote a sense of community among our groups, we train our mentors, peer leads, and ambassadors to care for all our participants and ensure we provide processing breaks/spaces. But we know that you are already a leader by the time you walk under the GVSU arch and we are excited to join you in your journey as a college student!
What is the deadline?
You must submit your registration by July 31, 2025.