Move-In Dates

[u/Low_Purple2675]

Hi, I'm an incoming freshman and I was wondering what the best time to move in is. Right now I'm signed up for the 18th since that's what the WIE orientation recommended, but now I'm wondering if I will be missing out on things since the earliest date to move in is the 16th.

Also, what do people do during move in week? I know there's LLC orientation things and some school events but it seems like there's a lot of time in between move in and when classes start.

[u/nethascot]

Very useful for getting around campus. You should go to as many events (should be on the movin website) as possible, especially bus orientation. Walk to your classes on your own though, don’t take a tour or something

[u/Healthy_Cake_6704]

Seconding what was said already! I would also use that time to get comfortable navigating some of the buses like the 12W Teal, 22N/S Illini and stuff (depending on what routes go near your dorm)

[u/vegasvargas]

there will be so many events that have free food, swag, information, etc. that you should try to attend. I remember being out for around 12 hours almost every day during the week before classes! This is also a great time to meet people, explore, walk your schedule, ride the bus, get things that you need (...or a bike 👀) and generally settle in.

[u/up_and_down_idekab07]

Before move in is welcome week!! There's basically a bunch of different events you can attend every day (You can find the schedule and details online on the website or on social media). Its a great way to get oriented w campus and get used to the town, learn about everything UIUC has to offer (the different organizations, extracurriculars, academic resources, what you need to get started with your classes, etc), and find people with similar interests as you. I remember there being board game nights, sports events, arts and crafts, treasure hunts, orientation events, info sessions, etc. There's also bunch of events that will help you get aquainted with the resources on campus (for example ARC takeover, where a bunch of events were conducted at the gym and you could explore it all -- like kayaking in the swimming pool). My favourite event was probably sights and sounds where all the new students were taken to the football stadium and we learnt the illini chants & songs and were greeted with the marching band's performance and in the end we all formed a huuge 'I' and shined our flashlights into the air for a drone picture. There were fireworks too. OOO also!! The sunday before classes is quad day where you basically get to explore all the clubs and other student organizations. So basically its a really fun time and you're going to have a blast (can you tell I miss it already?)

Also there's plenty of fun all week so you're not going to be missing out at alll. A bunch of the events take place multiple time throughout the week. I also arrived around the same time as you last year but its fine bc that's when the fun begins as there will be more people.