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As we all are returning to campus, excitement is filling the city of Ann Arbor! It is important to focus on the busy semester ahead of you but also to enjoy campus and all the fun there is to be had, especially while the weather in Ann Arbor is perfect. Here are some of the best activities and events during this season to take in all that campus has to offer!

Enjoy the Outdoors

In my opinion, this time of year is the best time to hang outside with friends in the Diag or at the Nichols Arboretum. Not only is campus incredibly lively as everyone is happy to be back but it is also the perfect temperature. Head to the Diag to sit on a blanket and study as you watch the leaves begin to turn orange or enjoy a thrilling game of Spikeball or frisbee as the temperatures begin to cool down, either way you can’t go wrong.

I also recommend that you spend time at the Nichols Arboretum. Now is a great time to enjoy the greenery in the arboretum. Whether you are taking a walk on the many hiking trails or just relaxing in the shade, the arboretum is a perfect place for when you are looking to escape the crowds or ease your mind after a long day. As fall begins you can watch the leaves change and enjoy nature without getting too hot or sunburnt!

Attend Campus Events

Being back on campus means there are so many fun events to attend. These events are not only a great way to familiarize yourself with campus life, whether you are brand new to it or getting back into the swing of it, but are also a great way to meet new friends.

First, participate in the welcome back scavenger hunt around campus starting on Aug. 24 and ending on Sept. 14. It is called Goosechase: Welcome to Michigan, and you will compete with your classmates to meet people, explore campus, and solve missions. You can also win prizes such as gift cards!

Next, attend Game Night at Pierpoint Commons on Aug. 26, 8-10 p.m.! Enjoy board games, video games, snacks, and prizes as you compete with your fellow students. This is a great way to meet new people and enjoy a fun evening on campus.

Additionally, you should attend Beats and Treats at the North Campus Grove on Aug. 27, 6-8 p.m. This is a fun event with music, free Kona Ice, and yard games. It is such a great time to socialize, enjoy being back on campus, and take in the nice weather. It is so much fun when everyone can gather on campus outside to connect and make new friends, without shivering!

Make sure you get out and have a blast at U-M activities across campus. To find more check out the Happening @ Michigan events calendar!

Go To Outdoor Sporting Events

It is no secret that it is not only exciting to watch the University of Michigan’s sports teams but also an incredible opportunity to be a part of a fun-loving and high energy community.

First, get excited for the football season opener on Sept. 5 at 7:30 p.m. at home against Western Michigan University. The first game of the season is always thrilling as all of the U-M student body and Ann Arbor locals get together to celebrate our football team. In addition, the first few games of the season are especially fun if you love warm weather. Getting to enjoy the games without gloves and a winter coat feels great.

Next, enjoy both women’s and men’s soccer at the U-M Soccer Stadium. The women’s next home match is Aug. 27 against Notre Dame. Also at home, the men’s team will play against Niagara on Aug. 27. Come take in all the good vibes as you cheer on the soccer teams!

These are just a few of the local sporting events you can enjoy as we transition from summer into fall. More teams to support: field hockey at outdoor non-conference games, U-M cross country, and tennis teams. Then, when you are ready to head inside, stop by a thrilling volleyball game at the Crisler Center or Cliff Keen Arena!

Immerse Yourself in the On-campus Fun!

These are just a few of the many activities and events available for your enjoyment on campus as summer comes to an end. I highlighted a lot of outdoor activities as the weather is optimal for relaxing outside, socializing with friends, and taking in our beautiful campus, although there are a large number of fun indoor events as well that I encourage you to check out. Welcome back to campus and have so much fun!