Western’s campus is bustling and vibrant as the newest cohort of incoming students start their university journeys, joining thousands of others returning after the summer term.
There are telltale signs of a new academic year.
“September is one of my favourite times on campus – you can feel the energy and excitement for the year ahead and the sense of community as we welcome our newest students,” said Western President Alan Shepard. “I want to thank everyone involved in creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all our students, regardless of where they are in their academic journey. Best wishes to all for a successful year.”
From karaoke and food trucks to bumper cars to a late-night arcade in the Mustang Lounge, Orientation Week – known as OWeek – is in full swing with a full lineup of activities to help break the ice and share “purple and proud” traditions with Western’s incoming students.
More than 5,200 first-year students moved into Western residence buildings over the weekend, greeted by upper-year Sophs and new classmates. International and graduate students also returned to campus for a new academic year, finding support and connection through Western’s suite of programming.
Students, staff, faculty, alumni and their families filled the stands at Alumni Stadium as the Western Mustangs football team kicked off their season against York University on Sunday, defeating the Lions 78 to 7.
OWeek also helps students connect with their new community, starting with volunteering alongside London, Ont. organizations, including the Muslim Resource Centre and Indigenous employment and education centre Nokee Kwe, through OServes. Students can contribute through hands-on activities such as making cards for pediatric patients or preparing welcome kits for vulnerable high school students.
Building community at Western
Western provides a range of programming and student support during OWeek, including Care Hubs, help stations in high-traffic areas where volunteers answer questions and provide water, snacks and other necessary supplies. Mental health counsellors are also available in the Care Hubs.
Staff, faculty and Sophs pose outside of a Care Hub during OWeek 2026. Students can approach a brightly marked Care Hub at any time for help, support or to access resources. (Steve Anderson/Western Communications)
Student support continues well beyond OWeek. Western’s Student Experience unit offers an array of services for new and returning students, including transition-to-university resources, peer mentorship as well as learning and writing assistance.
Navigating campus
Whether walking, cycling or driving to Western in the coming days, a little extra travel time is recommended. Ongoing construction projects across campus – and city infrastructure upgrades around it – will affect some travel routes. There are also intermittent road closures to support OWeek celebrations.
Western’s campus improvements are designed to keep services strong and make way for new long-term projects such as buildings and infrastructure that are important investments in Western’s future. They support the university’s strategic growth, renew infrastructure, improve campus facilities and create spaces that enhance teaching, learning and research.
The City of London is upgrading Western Road and Philip Aziz to enhance safety and accessibility for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers, while supporting future growth in the area. Western road is reduced to a single lane this week, and Philip Aziz Avenue remains closed.
Learn more about how Western is preparing future leaders and global citizens.
