26 Steps for the Class of 2026

  1. Settle into your new home away from home. Explore the UVA Grounds and Charlottesville area!
  2. Celebrate your second year at the Welcome Back Bash on Saturday, August 26, from 2 to 5 p.m.
  3. Participate in one of the time-honored traditions on the Lawn: Rotunda Sing (August), Trick-or-Treating on the Lawn (October), or Lighting of the Lawn (December).
  4. Chat about gaining career-related experiences during an appointment with a career counselor or by swinging by the Career Center in 1515 or drop-in hours in Clemons from 1:30-4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday.
  5. Enroll in the Public Service Pathways Program by September 5th to join a community committed to developing the knowledge and habits needed to make positive change in the lives of others.
  6. Explore education abroad opportunities: attend the Fall Education Abroad Fair on September 6, research programs, and meet with an education abroad advisor.
  7. Attend an Introductory Workshop during the Fellowships & Undergraduate Research Series.
  8. Use your talents for good and learn more about the local community by engaging in public service. Volunteer with Madison House, take a community engaged course, or join a public service CIO (student organization).
  9. Attend the Majors Fair on October 10 from 1 to 4 p.m.
  10. Develop an academic plan with your academic advisor.
  11. Take the online PathwayU assessment to learn more about your interests, skills, and values.
  12. Visit and reflect on the Memorial to Enslaved Laborers.
  13. Sign up for industry-specific Career Communities newsletters to find the best possible information on the career pathways you are most interested in!
  14. Explore different major options by meeting with the Directors of Undergraduate Programs.
  15. Attend Career Fairs and other UVA Career Center events to talk directly with employers interested in hiring UVA students and learn about their internship programs.
  16. Prioritize self-care using the UVA Well-Being Guides.
  17. Search for an alumni mentor on the Virginia Alumni Mentoring (VAM) platform.
  18. Interested in a subject? Take a class in it, or utilize online learning resources like LinkedIn Learning or Coursera.
  19. Spark a conversation about a class with a faculty member during office hours.
  20. Seek support from your family or friends.
  21. Eat at a restaurant on the Corner.
  22. Start something new, such as joining a new student organization or exercise class.
  23. Reflect on your journey so far through journaling or meditation.
  24. Attend a UVA sporting event and learn the UVA cheers!
  25. Submit an application for a summer job, major, or internship.
  26. Celebrate your Success!!!