TU welcomes its largest incoming first-year class

By Kyle Hobstetter on August 23, 2023

When classes begin on Monday, Aug. 28, Towson University will welcome 5,289 new students to campus. This includes 3,047 first-year students—the largest first-year class in TU history—exceeding the fall 2018 class of 2,996. This year’s incoming first-time students are also among the university’s most accomplished, coming to TU with a weighted grade point average of 3.83.

“We are excited to welcome more than 3,000 students, who join us as the largest first-year class in university history,” Interim President Melanie Perreault said. “From experiential learning and research alongside our world-class faculty, to Tiger athletics and arts performances, to our hundreds of student clubs and intramural sports, I encourage each of them to engage in all the opportunities TU has to offer. This is a very special university, made brighter by each of the new Tigers joining us this fall.” 

With more than 63% of first-year students identifying as an underrepresented racial or ethnic minority, TU enrolls the second-largest population of minority students in Maryland. This class also represents Maryland well, with 89% of the incoming first-year students being Maryland residents. TU will also have first-year students from 28 other states and 25 other countries.

The 1,404 transfer students come from 24 states and 21 countries, with 53% identifying as underrepresented racial or ethnic minorities. And TU’s 838 graduate students this fall hail from 25 states and 26 countries.

Welcome To TU

With the start of the fall semester at Towson University, Student Affairs, and the Office of Student Activities make sure that the newest Tigers have plenty to do in their first weekend on campus.

Welcome to TU is an annual event on campus that offers dozens of events on or around campus that gives incoming students a chance to get familiar with their new on-campus home, as well as a chance to meet fellow students.

“Our team has been working hard all summer to provide an amazing welcome to campus for our new and returning students,” says Vice President for Student Affairs Vernon Hurte. "The educational and engagement programming through Welcome to TU is designed to provide our new Tigers with important information that will help them have a great start to the academic year.

“Equally important, students will have many opportunities to make meaningful connections with their peers and with a variety of support resources available across campus. We know connections are key to student success.”

Here are just a few of the highlights that students will be able to experience over the weekend.

Speed Friending 

Wednesday August 23 | University Union, Room 329 | 9 to 10:30 p.m.

DJ Glow Party in Tiger Plaza with Free Insomnia Cookies and Glow Gear

TU Takeover 

Friday August 25 | Various LocationS | 6 to 11 p.m.

One night, 20+ campus locations filled with activities and free food from local vendors. Featuring: Live Band Karaoke in Science Atrium, Charm City Trivia in Paws Pavilion, Game Night in Cook Library, carnival rides on Newell Field, and so much more!

Intense mentalist magician Matt the Knife 

Saturday, August 26 | University Ballrooms | 10 - 11:30 p.m.

Come to the University Union Ballrooms for the outrageous mentalist, magician and speaker that's known for his trademark brand of wit that blends intense charisma with wickedly humorous improvisation and unique performance art. He's thrilled audiences in 21 countries across four continents and has gone on to shatter 12 Guinness World Records - more than any other magician ever.

Set it Off

Sunday, August 27 | Tiger Plaza | 7 p.m.

Set It Off is a celebration that kicks off the academic year with food, games, music and giveaways! New and returning students are invited to (re)connect and engage with student organizations and campus partners.

Hot Air Balloon 

Sunday August 28 | Towsontown Field | 6 - 9 p.m.

Soar high above campus. Get an amazing pic! Our annual tradition of a Hot Air Balloon returns to campus for 2023. *Rides are limited and weather dependent. Line for rides will open at 5:30 p.m.*

For a complete list of events happening over the weekend, students can download the TU Events App to their smart phone or device. All events and a list of the over 200 TU student organizations will be listed at the Involved@TU website. Student can also stay in the know by following TU Student Activities on Instagram.