MACON, Ga. – Mercer University will begin its 193rd academic year by welcoming the incoming freshman class, most of whom will move into their residence halls on the Macon campus this Friday and Saturday.

The University will welcome more than 1,100 new students to the Macon campus, including over 1,000 freshmen and more than 100 transfer students.

“Move-in Day at Mercer sets the stage for something far greater than unpacking boxes,” said Executive Vice President and Interim Provost Dr. Penny Elkins. “It marks the beginning of a journey where students will be equipped and inspired to lead lives of purpose, service, impact, and ultimately, to change the world.”

Two students carrying large blue bags walk on a campus sidewalk during a sunny move-in day event.
Move In Day 2024

First-year students arriving on Mercer’s campus for the start of the fall semester will be greeted by the Mercer Movers, a group of more than 100 volunteer upperclassmen, faculty and staff who help unload and carry new students’ belongings into their residence hall rooms.

“Enrolling one of the largest classes in the University’s history truly takes a campus-wide effort,” said Director of Undergraduate Admissions Mark Fox. “I’m incredibly grateful for our admissions team, our colleagues across the enrollment division and the many campus partners who made this possible. I can’t wait to introduce this remarkable group of Mercerians to our faculty and staff.”

Move-in starts Friday at 7 a.m. and will kick off several exciting event-filled Opening Days for the new students, including:

  • POP-a-Palooza on Cruz Plaza, where students and their families can enjoy their favorite “pops” (popcorn, popsicles, soda pop) as they prepare for the annual Macon Pops concert in Hawkins Arena.
  • Bear Beginnings: First-Year Student and Family Kick-Off in Hawkins Arena, where students will hear from Mercer administrators, meet other members of the Mercer community and receive more information about what is to come during Bear Beginnings
  • The traditional Class of 2029 photo on Cruz Plaza at 10:30 a.m., Sunday, Aug. 17
  • Picnic and glow parties
  • Bear Fair, an annual event designed to introduce the newest Mercerians to campus organizations and the Central Georgia community
  • The University’s annual Fall Convocation, the traditional start of the academic year, will take place Monday, Aug. 18, at 2 p.m. in Hawkins Arena.

For the full Opening Days and Bear Beginnings schedule, click here.

An aerial view of a university campus with a large group of people forming the shape of the letters "MU" on a lawn. The campus is surrounded by lush green trees and several brick buildings with pointed roofs. The sky is overcast.
The Class of 2028 forms an MU on Cruz Plaza during 2024 Bear Beginnings. Photo by Matt Smith

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