Clyde's Kickoff FAQ

Clyde's Kickoff FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Clyde’s Kickoff and what is its purpose?

Clyde’s Kickoff is event-packed week for all students to either be introduced as incoming freshmen or to participate as upperclassmen. This week is meant to kick off the fall semester as a series of events that are fun, engaging, and insightful. Clyde’s Kickoff is one of the most significant series of events for the entire campus. Each event has a goal and purpose, introducing students to resources, staff, faculty, methods of advisement and support, one another, and builds community.

What should students be prepared to learn during Clyde’s kickoff?

1. Students will be able to identify the mission/purpose of one department who sponsors/hosts a program during Clyde’s Kickoff

2. How to create connections with students in a space of shared difference

3. Understand the expectations and rigors within the academic environment

4. How connections to faculty and staff can benefit their transition and experience to college life

What are the goals of Clyde’s Kickoff Week?

1. This week features programs that help first year students acclimate toward college socially, emotionally, and academically

2. This program will engage students in a variety of social contexts in order to create live-long friendships, develop healthy behaviors, and become exposed to different cultures and backgrounds

3. This program provides resources from various departments and services in order to introduce students to the support networks available at UCCS.

4. This program constructs opportunities for students to interact with one another in residential, commuter and other diverse settings.

When is Clyde’s Kickoff held?

Clyde’s Kickoff is held from August 14th to August 19th. During this week, there are several events during each day that are jam packed with activities that interact with other students and learn about resources available on campus.

Do I have to attend Clyde’s Kickoff week?

Clyde’s Kickoff is a highly recommended program. Students who do not participate in Kickoff week are at a higher risk of not having a successful first semester, not learning the resources necessary to be successful, and are not as likely to get involved on campus. There are aspects of the week that are required, such as Gateway Days GPS classes. Clyde’s Kickoff is one of the most important event weeks that is attended by first-year students and upperclassmen alike.

Are there events held during Clyde’s Kickoff?

Yes, there are events every single day, with some days hosting multiple events. All the events are engaging and fun. Each event has a structure/propose to help you have fun, meet other students, but also learn about the campus.

Am I a commuter? Do I need to attend Clyde’s Kickoff?

It is highly recommended commuter students attend Clyde’s Kickoff week. Why wouldn’t you? Parking is free, events are free, many events have free food and you get to meet other students in your class. Please do know if you are registered for a GPS Class and the course meets during kickoff week, you are required to attend. This week gives commuter students the ability to engage with the UCCS community.

Commuter students find it hard to connect on campus, and Clyde’s Kickoff is the opportune time to engage with. There are also events geared specifically for commuter students.

Are there events and programs dedicated to parents?

The majority of events are geared specifically for students. However, the Department of Student and Family Connections hosts multiple events throughout the week for families.

What is GPS Gateway Days?

GPS is an experience for first year students to get accustomed to UCCS before the official start of the fall semester. This pre-term experience gives first-year students access to classes, resources, and activities at UCCS.

Do I have to attend GPS Gateway days?

If you are registered for a GPS Class, it is a required course to attend. It is three credits. Not showing up can lead to negative repercussions on your grade point average.

I am a residential student. Where do I find out about my move-in daytime and living assignment?

Contact the Office of Residence Life and Housing. They will share with you all the details related to move-in.

Do I need to purchase a parking pass to park on campus for this week?

Parking is free during this week

Are the events only Monday-Friday or are there events over the weekend?

Clyde’s Kickoff also has another day of events, Saturday, that have 6 separate events that span from 10:30 AM – 10:30 PM.

May I bring guests to the event?

While we encourage you to get to know your classmates, you can absolutely bring a guest who is not a student at UCCS.

What if I have work commitments during this time?

We have a week’s worth of events that you can attend and participate in during your days off! However, we hope we have given you plenty of time to request time off. If you are a GPS student that is required to attend Gateway Days, you need to attend these scheduled days. If you are having trouble attending these days contact your teacher immediately.