PROVIDENCE, R.I. [Brown University] — The sidewalks of College Hill were lined with cars and carts as Brown University welcomed its newest group of first-year, transfer and visiting students to campus for move-in day.
Teams of students, staff and faculty volunteers greeted the new arrivals with smiles and helping hands as they carried boxes, bedding and books into residence halls. The excitement of move-in signaled more than just a change of address, marking the beginning of thousands of new academic and personal journeys at Brown.
Among the families unloading cars on a sunny, late-August day in Providence were the Previns of Westchester, New York, who said goodbye to their daughter, Lucy, a member of the Class of 2029.
“I’ve been prepared for this moment for years, but I think I’m still going to be sad to see her off,” said Tea Previn, Lucy’s mom.
Lucy, who hopes to study political science or international and public affairs at Brown, said that although move-in is bittersweet, she’s mostly just excited for the year ahead.
“Everyone’s been so nice and helpful, and it’s been such a smooth transition,” she said. “I’m really looking forward to getting to know new people, go to some of the events, start classes and truly begin my Brown experience.”
The move-in marked the official start of New Student Orientation, a weeklong series of events designed to help students settle in, connect with peers and learn about the University’s academic opportunities and traditions.
From ice cream socials and resource fairs to tours of Providence and a spirited Orientation Dance on the College Green, the week offers countless ways for Brown’s newest students to get to know their campus and community.
With returning students moving in on Saturday, Aug. 30, the official start of the 2025-26 academic year will kick off at Brown University’s 262nd Opening Convocation on Tuesday, Sept. 2.