ACES’ Start to the Fall 2025 Semester

September 2nd marked the first day of classes for the 2025 school year! We were excited to welcome both our incoming ACES students and our returning LLP and minor students through move-in, student events, and the Honors Convocation.

From day one, ACES places a strong emphasis on fostering a sense of belonging and connection. Community building remains at the heart of our program and continues to be one of the most meaningful aspects that students value during their time in ACES.

First Year Student Move-In

Our first-year students kicked off their ACES journey a bit earlier, arriving the week before Labor Day for move-in and Welcome Week activities. Upon arrival, each student had the opportunity to meet with ACES staff, learn more about the week’s upcoming programming, and pick up their free ACES merchandise!

The following day, students gathered for the First Year Meeting, where they were officially introduced to the ACES program. In addition, this meeting featured interactive icebreaker activities to give students a chance to get to know one another, many for the very first time. The ACES Student Board also took the stage to share their roles and highlight upcoming events designed to help students build connections and support one another throughout the year.

Events For Students

The days leading up to and following the first day of classes were filled with exciting events hosted by the ACES program including speed friending, field day, and group campus tours, just to name a few.

Among the highlights was one of ACES’ most beloved traditions: Brick Painting. This creative activity allows students to design and personalize their own bricks, which can later be used to prop open their automatically closing dorm room doors if students choose to. More than just a practical tool, these bricks serve as conversation starters and help foster a welcoming, open-door culture within the residence halls.

Another favorite event among students is the ACES Peer Mentor Dinner, which kicks off the ACES Peer Mentor (APM) program. This initiative pairs interested first-year honors students with second-year honors students, creating opportunities for meaningful mentor-mentee relationships to form. The dinner offers a relaxed and welcoming space for students to meet their mentor/mentee, ask any questions they may have, and ensure that first-year students feel supported as they transition into the ACES community.

Honors Convocation

Lastly, the Honors Convocation was held on August 29th, and is a special event for all first year honors students to ring in the beginning of their college experience. Welcoming remarks were delivered by key university leaders, including the Director of the Honors College, the Dean of Undergraduate Studies, and the Vice President of Student Affairs.

This year’s keynote address was given by Dhruvak Mirani, the elected President of the Student Government Association, and a proud ACES alum. Now a senior double-majoring in Computer Science and International Relations, Mirani completed the ACES Honors Program in Spring 2024. His speech offered both inspiration and insight, reflecting on his own experiences and encouraging students to embrace the journey ahead.

Kicking Off a Promising Year

With the first week of school now complete, many meaningful memories have already been made, setting the tone for a vibrant year ahead. As we look forward to the rest of the academic year, ACES is energized and ready to continue fostering growth, collaboration, and community among all of our students, new and returning alike. Here's to a year full of opportunity, learning, and connection!

photo credits: Amina Lampkin

Published September 15, 2025