Event Ideas for Students:

College event ideas

If you've been tasked with organising some fun ideas for college events, we've got your back. From ideas that encourage students to engage to showcasing future campus events, we've got something for all types of students.

A Close-Up Magician

Word's out that booking magician is a clever move for your event. It’s perfect for keeping things lively and interactive, especially if you’re worried about engaging your students. A magician can effortlessly shatter any awkwardness, spark interest, and sprinkle a dose of fun into your university gathering. Because of the interactive nature of close-up magic, it will engage students while increasing school spirit.

Outdoor Movie Night

An outdoor movie night is an exceptional way to welcome incoming students, combining relaxation with a touch of excitement. Set against the backdrop of the campus grounds, this event invites newcomers to unwind under the stars while getting acquainted with their new environment. Equip the area with a large screen, comfortable seating, and an array of snacks to make it an unforgettable evening. Choosing a selection of popular or classic films can spark conversations, helping students break the ice and form new friendships organically. An outdoor movie night isn't just a screening; it's a social launchpad for students beginning their university journey.

Themed Costume Party

Graduate students might appreciate a themed costume party that combines sophistication with a hint of nostalgia, offering a refreshing break from the rigours of academia. Consider themes like "Roaring Twenties" or "Hollywood Glamour," where guests can dress in timeless attire reminiscent of iconic eras. This environment encourages creative expression while allowing attendees to revel in elegance and flair. Providing quality music, bespoke cocktails, and carefully curated decorations will elevate the ambience, fostering an engaging and relaxing atmosphere. Such a themed party can act as a stylish getaway, offering graduates an opportunity to unwind, network, and celebrate in style, all while indulging their playful side.

Trivia Competition

A little trivia mixed with a little liquor - the perfect cocktail for a fun and interactive event. Invite students to come up with hilarious team names (a brilliant ice-breaker) and then test their general knowledge with some questions. Spice things up by including a few school-specific trivia questions to promote school spirit and familiarise students with their campus. Prizes can range from gift cards from local businesses to free tickets to upcoming school events, making it a win-win for students and the university. Trivia night? Good call.

Volunteer Opportunities Fair

If you’re fueled by the desire to give back (and who isn’t?), organizing a volunteer opportunities fair can be a fantastic way to engage students while giving a shout-out to some important causes. Invite local non-profits and charities to set up booths where they can regale students with tales of their work—because who doesn’t love a good story about making the world a better place? This event champions altruism and provides valuable networking opportunities for students eager to gain experience or make connections. After all, who wouldn’t want to add “making a difference” to their resume?

Karaoke Challenge

New students can show off their X-factor whilst providing free entertainment for your college students! Mix it in with a meet-your-professor session (they have to sing also!), and karaoke is not just a fun event for your college but also a great way to build bonds between students and faculty. Conclusion

Food Truck Festival

University events need a few things to succeed, and food (and entertainment) are the backbone of any exciting event. Contact local foodies who can offer you a deal for a university event. Local restaurants may also want to get involved to showcase their culinary delights to your new college students. Some ideas include:

• Tacos and Burritos

• Gourmet Burgers

• Wood-Fired Pizza

• Asian Fusion Cuisine

• Vegan Delights

• Barbecue and Grill

• Dessert and Ice Cream

Open Mic Night

An open mic night is essentially a talent showcase where performers strut their stuff—be it music, poetry, close-up magic, or that avant-garde interpretive dance you've been perfecting—in front of a live audience. Usually hosted in casual spots like cafes or student lounges, these evenings offer a cozy environment where aspiring and seasoned talents can test their material and snag some well-deserved exposure.

Plus, they invite college students to participate, creating a delightful community and student collaboration mix. Who knows? You might just stumble upon a hidden gem of talent on campus! It’s a chance for students to unleash their creativity and express themselves, all while keeping the vibe relaxed and fun. Former students can play judge.

Video Game Tournament

University students know their way around a PlayStation. These life skills must be rewarded! This could even be an online event - but for an in-person event, gather up a bunch of consoles and get students engaged in a few rounds of Mario Kart. Students love games and winning!

Career Fair

A career fair is a gathering where students and employers collide, offering a chance to dive into various industries, contemplate career paths, and schmooze with professionals in their field of interest. Students can make invaluable connections, get the lowdown on the job market, and who knows, maybe even land an internship or a job (no pressure, right?). On the other hand, employers get to flaunt their company culture while scouting out the crème de la crème of student talent. It’s a classic win-win: students inch closer to their dream jobs, and employers gain access to a pool of bright-eyed candidates just itching to make an impact.

Campus Scavenger Hunt

Looking for ideas for college students that don't break the bank? A scavenger hunt is a cheap option where you invite students to explore their campus and get acquainted with their new surroundings. Make a list of fun items or tasks related to various locations on campus, and let students loose. They can go solo, form teams, or compete against each other for the ultimate prize (a free meal at the local cafeteria, supporting local businesses). This activity encourages students to work together, think critically, and discover hidden gems they may have otherwise missed on campus. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity for student organisations to promote themselves by hiding clues or goodies at their booths! A student scavenger hunt is a great idea.

Charity Events

Encourage community engagement while raising awareness and money for your local charity. This is a great way to bring college students together. There are a multitude of ways to raise money for your chosen charity, including:

A hot air balloon ride
Relay races
Car washing

Cultural Event Ideas

• International Food Fair: Host an event where students and local community members can sample cuisines from around the world. Encourage participants to set up booths representing different countries, offering traditional dishes and explaining their cultural significance.

• World Music Concert: Organise a concert featuring music from various cultures and regions. This could include live performances from traditional musicians, dancers, and even contemporary artists who blend cultural elements into their music.

• Cultural Film Screening: Arrange a screening of films from different countries, showcasing both classic and modern works. Follow up with a discussion panel or a Q&A session for insights into the cultural context and filmmaking techniques.

• Cultural Heritage Exhibition: Partner with local museums or cultural organisations to display artefacts, art, and clothing from diverse cultures. This exhibition can provide educational insights into different traditions and histories.

• Language Exchange Meetup: Host regular meetups where students can engage in language learning and practice with native speakers. This encourages linguistic diversity and promotes intercultural communication on campus.

Wellness event ideas for college students

Stress Relief Day

College life can be overwhelming at times, so offering students a designated day to unwind and de-stress is a must. Some ideas for a calmer campus life:

• Yoga or meditation sessions

• Pet therapy with trained therapy animals

• DIY spa treatments or massages

• Art therapy workshops

• Outdoor movie night under the stars

Guest Speakers and Lectures

Invite industry professionals, successful alumni, or notable public figures to speak at your college event. This not only offers valuable insights and networking opportunities for students but also adds prestige to your event. Choose relevant and engaging topics to your student audience, such as career advice, personal development, or social issues.

Why college events are important

College events provide much more than just entertainment for students. They offer an opportunity for students to connect and engage with their peers, faculty, and staff in a social setting outside of the classroom. These events help foster a sense of community within the university campus and can even contribute to student retention rates.

Final Thoughts: Event Ideas for College

These event ideas are designed to help you host outstanding college gatherings. While engaging students and fostering a sense of community can be challenging, effective event planning and execution can make it achievable. You can create memorable experiences that resonate with students by inspiring excitement and motivation.