From day one on campus, Parkhurst Dining helps establish a sense of belonging for all students, especially those arriving early to campus. Whether you’re an orientation leader, athlete, resident assistant, international student, band member, or other early arrival, our dining programs create memorable experiences that help students feel welcomed, supported, and connected.
Engaging Experiences for Early Arrivals
Creating a welcoming campus experience before the semester officially begins can be a difficult task, but our Parkhurst teams work hard to partner with campuses to develop engaging back-to-campus experiences for students arriving early.
At Loyola University, for example, our Parkhurst team supports early arrivals during move-in by providing a Hospitality Tent. We also work with the academic department, campus life, and athletics to organize and provide campus dining events for their various student groups. Another event in the works, alongside Student Affairs and College Advancement, is a “Tissues & Toast” event, focusing on parents and their engagement with the advancement team on campus. During this event, tissues will be provided for those that are sad to drop off their student and “toasts” for those that are celebrating.
Our Parkhurst team at Grove City College works with Student Life supporting various campus events like the Parent Coffee Connection and Student Resource Fair. Geared towards parents, the coffee connection is designed to share information regarding the school’s meal plan as well as the From Home With Love program.
For the students, the resource fair provides information about dining and Craveable resources while enjoying a fun snack like a chip and dip bar. Additional campus events designed to promote fun and connection for early arrivals at Grove City include the New Student Carnival and a Welcome Back Luau with a themed meal, games, DJ, and dancing.
Through such special events, welcome activities, themed meals, and intentional hospitality, we help transform dining spaces into gathering places where relationships begin and community is built. As a result, early arrivals are able to connect with their new environment and one another.
Building Connections Through Campus Dining
Campus dining plays a pivotal role in helping students build connections and feel at home. Since the first days on campus can shape a student’s entire college experience, it is important that early arrivals also experience this sense of connection while building community and establishing traditions. By creating warm, welcoming experiences through dining programs and campus partnerships, students can feel supported and excited for the year ahead. These moments reinforce that dining is more than just a meal—it is an important part of the student experience and campus culture.
Supporting the Student Journey
From a student’s first days on campus through graduation, dining spaces help foster belonging, create opportunities for connection, support student well-being, and become a meaningful part of the college experience.
Whether you are new to campus or returning, Parkhurst provides early arrival students with thoughtful dining experiences and campus partnerships designed to create a positive start and set the foundation for a successful year.
