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Kick Start Extended Weekend

This special 4 day program is designed to prepare students for a successful transition into the СÓÅÊÓƵ community, providing them with a head start on their academic journey. Participants will engage in team building and leadership development activities, explore campus resources, acquire essential college success skills, embark on excursions to cultural destinations, and enjoy enriching experiences that foster personal and academic growth. Don’t miss this opportunity to start your СÓÅÊÓƵ experience off strong and build lasting connections within our diverse community!

Connect with a Peer Leader

Connect and be mentored by a Peer Leader that offers invaluable support and guidance. Each Peer Leader is a current Rider student who has firsthand experience participating in the program. They are eager to share their insights, provide advice, and help new students navigate their journey at Rider. Building a connection with a Peer Leader allows students to benefit from personalized mentorship, fostering a sense of community and bonding with their upper-class peers.

Cultural Excursions

As a BELONG participant, you will have the enriching opportunity to embark on cultural field trips that broaden your horizons and deepen your understanding of diverse perspectives. These trips are curated to immerse you in different cultures, traditions, and histories, allowing you to explore beyond the classroom and engage directly with various communities. Whether visiting museums, attending cultural festivals, or exploring historical sites, these experiences will enhance your learning journey and foster a deeper appreciation for diversity within and beyond СÓÅÊÓƵ.

Group Project

During Kick Start Extended Weekend, you'll collaborate with your peers and Peer Leaders on an exciting group project designed to showcase your creativity and teamwork. This hands-on experience will not only strengthen your problem-solving skills but also foster meaningful connections with fellow participants. Together, you'll brainstorm ideas, allocate tasks, and work towards a shared goal, leading to a presentation that highlights your collective efforts and accomplishments at the conclusion of the program.

Academic Study Collectives

Academic study collectives, provide a collaborative environment where students can enhance their understanding of course material through shared learning and discussion. These collectives foster academic engagement by encouraging students to exchange ideas, clarify concepts, and tackle challenging topics together. By participating in academic study collectives, students not only strengthen their grasp of subjects but also develop essential skills in teamwork, communication, and critical thinking, contributing to their overall academic success and confidence.

Meet & Greets

Forge meaningful connections through meet-and-greets and seminars that introduce you to different areas of university life. Discover essential campus resources that support your academic and personal success, giving you the tools you need to thrive. Phase II aims to foster a sense of belonging within the Rider community, supported by opportunities to connect with Rider Professional Mentors who can guide and inspire you on your academic journey.

Engagement Experiences

Social engagement events and activities promoting diversity and inclusion create vibrant opportunities for students to connect, celebrate, and learn within a diverse community. These events foster meaningful interactions among peers, faculty, and staff, promoting understanding and appreciation of different cultures, identities, and perspectives. From heritage celebrations to workshops and dialogue sessions, these activities encourage conversation, empathy, and mutual respect. By participating in these events, students cultivate a sense of belonging, develop intercultural competencies, and contribute to a more inclusive campus environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

Leadership Development Summit

Attend Leadership Development Summit Weekend, where you will delve into professional development, leadership competencies, and learn how to become agents of positive change. This experience is designed to equip you for both professional success and personal fulfillment, empowering you to lead confidently into the future. Engage with industry leaders and peers to expand your network and gain insights that will shape your career trajectory.

Community Service

Students will actively engage in community service, dedicating their time and skills to initiatives that positively impact the local community. Through these experiences, they not only contribute meaningfully to societal needs but also cultivate empathy, leadership, and teamwork skills. This hands-on involvement instills a sense of responsibility and civic duty, preparing students to be active contributors to their communities long after their college years.

Become a Peer Leader

As you progress through Phase III, consider reaching back and becoming a Peer Leader for future BELONG students. This opportunity not only allows you to give back to the community but also reinforces your own leadership skills and commitment to fostering a supportive environment at Rider. Serving as a Peer Leader offers a chance to mentor others and contribute to the growth and success of incoming students, leaving a lasting impact on the university community.

• Early Move-In: Arrive on campus early to settle in and prepare for your first semester.
• Kick Start Extended Weekend: Dive deep into Rider with activities and essential information to kickstart your journey.
• Mentorship Opportunities: Gain guidance from experienced mentors.
• Leadership Development Summit: Develop leadership skills and attend professional workshops for career readiness.
• Earn Engaged Learning Points: All students need these to graduate.
• Cultural Experience Trips: Explore diverse perspectives through curated trips.
• Inclusive Excellence Programming: Engage in discussions fostering campus inclusivity.
• Networking and Friendships: Connect with diverse peers and build lasting friendships.
• Community Service: Participate in meaningful local volunteer work.
• Study Groups: Collaborate with peers for academic success.
• Awards Banquet: Celebrate your achievements at this special event!

• Attendance at Kick Start Extended Weekend (August 28th – August 31st).
• Participation in Leadership Development Summit Weekend.
• Monthly meetings with your mentor.
• Attendance at mandatory events, workshops and seminars.