PROVIDENCE, R.I. [Brown University] — The first week in September is a momentous one at Brown — the first leaves begin to fall from the elms on the College Green, the time-honored tradition of the Van Wickle Gates opening for entering students arrives again, and thousands of new Class of 2021 undergraduates, graduate students and medical students begin their Brown University academic careers.

From open houses, campus tours and first reading seminars to midnight organ concerts, trivia nights and a post-Convocation Welcome BBQ, the campus community is ready to help students and families navigate the first few days of the new academic year.

Can't make it to Providence? Brown’s 254th Opening Convocation ceremony will be broadcast live on Tuesday, Sept. 5 at 3:45 p.m., as President Christina Paxson officially opens the school year by welcoming students and introducing this year’s speaker, Professor of Anthropology Daniel Smith. Join the conversation and share your photos, videos and messages with #Brown2021 and #BrownWelcome.