Bear Beginnings

The Bear Beginnings program is designed to help first-year students transition both academically and socially to life at Mercer. During Bear Beginnings, students finalize their fall course schedule, learn of various campus resources, gain an understanding of Mercer’s academic expectations, and attend social events. First-year students experience Bear Beginnings alongside their Peer Advisor (PA), orientation group (O-Group), and academic advisor. Once Bear Beginnings in complete, students remain connected with their PA, O-Group, and academic advisor through the University 101 (UNV 101) classroom experience.

Bear Beginnings Schedule

View the 2024 Bear Beginnings Overview and Schedule here.

• Residential first-year students: If you are a residential student, you will move into your residence hall during your assigned move-in timeframe on your assigned move-in. Housing and Residence Life has implemented an online Check-In procedure to simplify your Check-In process. Please go to MyMercer and click “Online Check-In” to access this process. The Housing Online Check-In form must be submitted before you will be allowed to receive your keys/door access; therefore, you will need to complete the form before you arrive on-campus in order to expedite the process.
• Commuter students: If you are a commuter student, you must check-in at our Commuter Check-In on Saturday, August 17th in Willet Auditorium.
• International students: If you are an international student, you will work with Caroline Mason within the Office of International Programs.