Arcadia START: Pre-Welcome Week Experience

Students interested in global interconnectedness and social justice are invited to move into their residence hall three days (two nights) before the traditional fall Welcome Week experience. During Arcadia START (Students Taking Active Responsibility Together), you’ll meet the Division of Civic & Global Engagement staff and student leaders, make friends with similar interests and goals, and explore Glenside and Philadelphia.

Arcadia START Benefits

  • A warm welcome to campus from staff and student leaders
  • Themed Civic & Global Engagement activities, including guest speakers, a Glenside public art tour, and a Philadelphia tour. 
  • Opportunity to help run a Welcome Week community service activities for the incoming class.
  • Guaranteed spots for FYSAE/SYSAE participants, Civic Scholars, Steppingstone Scholars, and international students.

SIGN UP FOR START

A $60 fee to participate in Arcadia START will be added to your student account. Most meals are included, and need-based aid is available.

Experience Firsts with START

I would definitely recommend Arcadia START. Before Welcome Week even started, I was moved in and feeling psyched. Through the program I made new friends, tried Indian food for the first time—and enjoyed it!—and learned more about Philadelphia, including its street art/graffiti. It was a lot of activity in a short period of time, and a lot of fun.

- Dot Bertrand '25, Global Media & French Major

Four students and a professor sitting outside of library
 
Learn More

Civic Scholars

Arcadia Civic Scholars offers a home base, a training ground, and an incubator for students in any major who are passionate about driving social change.

LEARN MORE

Civic Scholars
 
Learn More

First-Year Study Abroad Experience (FYSAE)

Spend the spring semester of your first year in London through Arcadia's First-Year Study Abroad Experience. Connect with the world beyond campus, develop your global mindset, and gain real-world skills.

LEARN MORE

First-Year Study Abroad Experience (FYSAE)
Four students standing in front of river in London
 
Learn More

Second-Year Study Abroad Experience (SYSAE)

During the fall semester of your sophomore year, you'll have opportunities to explore new cultures, gain international internship experience, learn outside the classroom, and become part of local communities in which you study.

LEARN MORE

Second-Year Study Abroad Experience (SYSAE)