As students head back to Virginia Tech or make their way for the first time, various organizations are waiting.
Hokie Hi is a program that promotes the first-week activities of any organization or group. The goal is to get students involved with student life and socialize.
Jessica Johns is the Hokie Hi committee chair. The committee is comprised of representatives from student affairs, Tech athletics, Virginia Tech Union, Residence Life, and others. Since 2003 they've promoted the events that are put on by the respective organizations.
Hokie Hi will distribute fliers and booklets containing full schedules in the residence halls and in off-campus apartments.
There are a few "flagship events" that Johns said are organized each year by various groups
RHF Campus Bonanza
The Residence Hall Foundation brings in free pizza from various Blacksburg vendors and lets students taste all brands and then rate them. Prizes are awarded throughout the event.
Welcome Back Picnic
Students get to the Welcome Back Picnic through the Lane Stadium tunnel. While eating, Tech athletics introduces various teams and people.
Career Services Tailgate
Sponsors provide food and prizes for Tech students, and representatives from the companies will be present who are looking to hire students and graduates. Career Services staff will be available for advice and introductions.
Gobblerfest
This is the second year for the street fair-style event. In additon to games and food, student organizations will be present to talk to interested students. There will also be a business expo and a volunteer fair for VT-ENGAGE, Tech's program to encourage community service by students and faculty.
Kickoff Concert and Rally
Every year the kickoff concert and rally is held by the junior class. The class of 2011 will host this year's events.
Individual events
Organizations and departments can sign up events with Hokie Hi to be put on the Web site or in the booklets. This way, new and interested students can take the opportunity to meet various groups early in the year and get involved.
Various academic departments and majors also hold events to allow students to meet faculty and peers within the same area of study.