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Division of Academic and Student Affairs
Multicultural Student Affairs

Symposium for Multicultural Scholars

August 12 - 14, 2025

The Symposium for Multicultural Scholars is a culturally affirming educational and transitional experience centering on and exploring the experiences of incoming undergraduate first-year and transfer students and first-generation college students from all backgrounds at NC State. Its purpose is to foster a sense of community for students while providing them with information about campus support, personnel, and resources as a basis for helping ensure academic, social and emotional success at NC State.

This program is open to students from all races, ethnicities, and cultures, and we encourage any interested student to register.

The Symposium for Multicultural Scholars is hosted before the start of each semester, twice a year, in August for fall admitted students and in January as a program for Spring Connect students.

The Fall 2025 Symposium for Multicultural Scholars will be from Tuesday, August 12th to Thursday, August 14th.

Symposium for Multicultural Scholars and all MSA-sponsored/supported programs and initiatives are open to all students from all backgrounds. 

Register for Fall 2025 Symposium

Symposium FAQ’s

Please check the FAQ’s below for important information for Symposium sessions.

FALL FAQ’S (AUGUST)

  • When is the Symposium?
    The Symposium for Multicultural Scholars is hosted before the start of each semester, twice a year, in August for fall admitted students and in January as a program for Spring Connect students.
  • Is there a fee for the Symposium?
    Students are able to attend the symposium at no cost. Students who sign up and are accepted to participate in the symposium are expected to attend all program sessions and activities.
  • How long is the symposium?
    The Symposium for Multicultural Scholars will take place over 3 days the week before classes start. Aside from the opening day, the remaining days will typically be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with small group sessions and various workshops. Meals and snacks will be provided each day, as well as after-hours community fun events.This also means that Symposium participants get to move into their residence halls early!
  • If I’m participating in the Symposium for Multicultural Scholars when do I move into my on-campus residence hall? The Symposium for Multicultural Scholars is considered an Early Arrival event. Participants in the Symposium DO NOT need to sign up for an appointment time.  The Symposium administrators will provide housing the names of participants, and housing will know that those students are moving in early.  Once you register, we will communicate details on move-in. Information about the Fall move-in guidelines can be found on the University Housing website.
  • What should I bring to the Symposium for Multicultural Scholars sessions?
    Backpacks and materials are provided as part of the registration process. However, students are encouraged to bring a water bottle, comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket or sweater.
  • If I have a scheduling conflict during the Symposium?
    Schedule accommodations can be made for students who are participating in Symposium and another early start program. Students should communicate these scheduling conflicts with us via email at multicultural@ncsu.edu .
  • If I attend the Symposium for Multicultural Scholars, do I still need to attend Orientation?
    Yes, all incoming first-year and transfer students are required to attend Orientation. The Symposium for Multicultural Scholars is an additional opportunity to engage and find community, separate from the New Student Orientation Experience.

Resources

As you begin your transition to NC State, here are some key resources that we believe would be helpful for your journey.

Please stop by our offices in Talley Student Union Room 4261 to say hello and find out more about our programs. We look forward to meeting you! Please contact us at multicultural@ncsu.edu with any questions or concerns.

Student Organization/Campus Partner Tabling Opportunity at Symposium

All student groups, campus departments and units are welcome to participate in tabling opportunities at this year’s Symposium for Multicultural Scholars. Space is limited. Register here.