ATLANTA — Georgia State University this week is welcoming tens of thousands of new and returning students to its Atlanta and Perimeter College campuses for the start of the fall 2025 semester.
Even before the first classes kicked off Aug. 25, the university began hosting a raft of activities starting with Move-In Days last week for residential students living in University Housing.
GSU’s Division of Student Engagement on Thursday hosted the Global Grillout, offering an opportunity for international and domestic students from across all campuses to connect, socialize and learn about each others’ cultures over lunch and games.
Saturday night, downtown Atlanta’s Hurt Park became an outdoor screening room for the annual Cinema Under the Stars. Featuring “Sinners” with Michael B. Jordan, the event included a selection of food trucks and free blankets while supplies lasted.
The slate of events is part of more than a week of activities known as Panther Welcome designed to help students start the academic year off right. From a job fair to bingo to a Fraternity and Sorority Life Expo, the events help students get to know Georgia State and find the resources they need to thrive in college and beyond.
“You are the reason for our growth and the inspiration for what comes next,” President M. Brian Blake said in a welcome-back message to faculty, staff and students. “I encourage you to stay engaged in campus life — cheer on our Panthers at football games, join student organizations and take advantage of the many opportunities to connect, learn and lead.
“Here’s to a year filled with growth, discovery and Panther pride. Welcome back, and let’s make this year our best one yet!”
Georgia State President M. Brian Blake welcomes incoming first-year students during First-Year Convocation Sunday, Aug. 24.
But before new Panthers headed to their first classes this week, they attended First-Year Convocation, held in the GSU Convocation Center, Aug. 24. With much of the pomp and circumstance of a commencement, First-Year Convocation welcomes incoming first-year students to Georgia State with a guest speaker, remarks from university leaders, the first-year pledge and performances of the university fight song and alma mater.
The guest speaker this year was Jessica Mitchell (B.S. ’16), a campus outreach program manager for Google and a member of the Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 Under 40 Class of 2025. At Google, Mitchell plays a pivotal role in cultivating top-tier talent for internships and entry-level positions.
Following the convocation ceremony, all students were invited to the Panther Welcome Party, a back-to-school block party featuring food, music and time to socialize and take selfies with Pounce in GSU’s giant inflatable armchair.
The first two days of classes, Georgia State’s campuses also host Welcome Breakfasts sponsored by Student Engagement. Recreational Services will showcase its activities and services during its Pounce Around the Rec event Tuesday, Aug. 26,
The grand finale of Panther Welcome is GSU Night at Six Flags Friday, Sept. 19, which is open to the entire GSU community, including employees, alumni and their guests
“We are hosting our biggest Panther Welcome ever,” said Michael L. Sanseviro (Ph.D. ’06), vice president for Student Engagement. “This is really a chance for our students to discover all the ways that Georgia State can enhance the college experience and help them grow academically, socially and professionally. It’s an exciting time at Georgia State and we’re excited to welcome all of our students for what’s sure to be a remarkable year.”
— Photos by Meg Buscema