Hi, gap-year students in the Class of 2027!

Welcome back for the spring 2024 semester! We hope you had a fun and restful winter break.

This special edition of the Bear Bulletin contains information specific to first-year students who took a gap year prior to enrolling at WashU. If you have any questions, feel free to email or reach out on Instagram.

- Student Transitions & Family Programs

Share your thoughts in a focus group!

STFP is interested in strengthening its support and programs for gap-year students like you. We invite you to attend our Gap-Year Focus Group to hear YOUR thoughts and opinions on the gap-year experience while you enjoy FREE food and drinks.

Our Gap-Year Student Focus Group will be held on Tuesday, January 23 at 6:00 PM in Umrath House L924. Please complete our Interest Form to let us know you are interested in attending and to share any information that would be helpful for your arrival. 

Monthly study sessions

At our monthly study sessions, meet other students and enjoy FREE snacks while you study for exams or complete class assignments. These study sessions are exclusively for gap-year students like you! These sessions are offered on:

• Tuesday, February 27 @ 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM in Umrath House L924
• Tuesday, March 26 @ 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM in Umrath House L924
• Tuesday, April 16 @ 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM in Umrath House L924

Spring 2024 events for gap-year students

Throughout the spring semester, Student Transitions & Family Programs will collaborate with departments on campus to connect you with other gap-year students and resources on campus.

The Skandalaris Center for Interdisciplinary Innovation and Entrepreneurship is hosting two events of interest to gap-year students:

• The Skandalaris Center Open House: Monday, January 22 @ 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM in Mallinckrodt 128.
• Stop by to connect with the Center's team; learn about updates, events and competitions; enjoy a hot cocoa and cookie bar; pick up a free reusable coffee mug; and make your own miniature snow globe at the Make It Take It corner.
• IdeaBounce®: Wednesday, February 7 @ 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM in Mallinckrodt 128.
• Sign up to participate in IdeaBounce®, an opportunity to pitch your ideas for invention, service, research, or startup. You can get feedback on your ideas and make connections in a safe, collaborative learning environment. Prizes are awarded to the top ideas!

Additional events are being planned, so watch for future emails and communications throughout the spring semester to stay up-to-date on gap-year student information and programming!