Breadcrumb
Graduate Student Orientation
Welcome to Cal Poly Humboldt!
Fall Orientation
Thursday, August 20, 2026
1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Goodwin Forum (Nelson Hall East 102) (Map Location 5E)
Our orientation is designed to welcome you to campus and help support you as you begin your graduate studies at Cal Poly Humboldt. You'll have an opportunity to meet fellow students and faculty and learn about resources to support you at Cal Poly Humboldt. A zoom option is available.
Check out the additional options throughout the Welcome Week to help you get connected to your new campus community!
The schedule details are subject to change.
Fall 2026 Graduate Student Welcome Week Schedule
| When & Where | Activity |
1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Goodwin Forum Nelson Hall East (NHE) 102 (Zoom option available) | Graduate Student Orientation Get ready to dive into an exciting session filled with information, resources, and connections that will set you up for success. |
4:30 p.m. - 6 p.m. Starts & ends at the Harry Griffith Hall Bike Station | All-Abilities Group Bike Ride (Optional) Join us for an easy ride from campus to the Arcata Marsh on the Humboldt Bay Trail. No bike? No problem! Show up for FREE use of a bikeshare bike! We start and end the ride at the bike station in front of Harry Griffith Hall (corner of Harpst St and B St). Meet other cyclists, experience the bike path and have fun! |
7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Forbes | Drop-In Basketball (Optional) Join us for casual, non-competitive basketball open to all skill levels. No teams or registration required, just show up, play, and enjoy the game. Great for staying active, meeting other players, and having fun in a relaxed environment. Bring your sneakers and get ready to shoot some hoops! |
| When & Where | Activity |
9 a.m. - 11 a.m. Library 209 (Fishbowl) | ADPI+MENA Scholar Program Orientation Calling all first-year, transfer, and graduate ADPI+MENA students! Whether you are already a scholar or interested in joining, come learn about our program structure, services, and center resources. Breakfast and merch provided while supplies last! |
11 a.m. - 2 p.m. University Quad | Lunch, Student Reception, & Campus Resource Fair Explore a world of opportunities at the Campus Resource Fair and enjoy a free lunch! Connect with various on- and off-campus organizations, clubs, and support services while enjoying a delicious meal. Discover resources to enhance your university experience and make lasting connections with fellow students and staff. |
11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Outside Rec & Wellness Center | Pop-up Thrift Store Stop by our Welcome Week Pop-Up Thrift Store and shop sustainably! Everything is FREE for students! Find clothes, kitchen items, accessories, and treasures to make your new semester shine while keeping perfectly good items out of the landfill. |
12 p.m. - 3 p.m. Library 027 | Drop-in Advising Have a quick schedule update or advising question? Want to check in on your classes or just come see the Academic Advising Center? They will be here during your free time today! |
2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Fieldhouse | Drop-in Zorb Soccer Join us for Drop-In Zorb Soccer! Bounce, roll, and score in giant inflatable bubbles. Fun, laughter, and new friends await—drop by anytime! |
2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Student Recreation Center | Drop-in Climbing Session Stop by the Student Recreation Center for a fun, low-pressure drop-in climbing session! Whether you’re a seasoned climber or trying it out for the first time, all experience levels are welcome. Gear is provided. |
3 p.m. - 5 p.m. Kate Buchanan Room (KBR) | Connect with the Centers for Inclusive Academic and Career Excellence! Stop by our welcome mixer to meet the team, connect with fellow students, and learn how the Centers for Inclusive Academic and Career Excellence can support your journey at Cal Poly Humboldt. Discover our culturally responsive academic advising, student success support, and resources designed to help you thrive! Refreshments will be provided—we look forward to meeting you! |
4 p.m. - 5 p.m. Meet in front of the SBS | Campus Tour Explore key academic buildings where you'll attend classes, discover the heart of campus life, and hear fun facts about our Cal Poly Humboldt's history and traditions. Please bring your class schedule. |
5 p.m. - 8 p.m. Meet in front of the Harry Griffith Hall to catch the shuttle | Friday Night Market Arcata welcomes you to your new home! Check out the Arcata Night Market featuring local businesses, music, booths and more! First 500 new students get a $20 voucher to buy food and drinks! (Shuttle will go back and forth from 5-8pm.) |
| When & Where | Activity |
10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Meet in front of HGH to catch the bus, or meet at HBAC (921 Waterfront Dr, Eureka, CA 95501) | Open Boathouse Tour (Optional) Check out the Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center (HBAC), meet the rowing teams, learn to use the rowing machine, and learn more about Outdoor Adventures! A bus will bring students from campus at Harry Griffith Hall (HGH) to HBAC every 30 minutes starting at 10 a.m. or you can meet at HBAC. A final bus will leave the HBAC at 12 (noon). |
| When & Where | Activity |
10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
| Explore the Ma-le'l Dunes Get to know your new backyard with a guided hike through Ma-le'l Dunes, just 15 minutes from campus. We'll explore the dune trails, walk along beaches where you won't see a soul in sight, and make our way to the North Jetty at the entrance to Humboldt Bay. This trip is a fun way to start discovering all that Humboldt has to offer. Hosted by Outdoor Adventures. Register Here: Explore the Ma-le'l Dunes (Registration not required but pre-registration guarantees a spot!) |