By admin 
TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – The University of Arizona is sharpening its focus on the next generation of Wildcats with the grand opening of its brand-new Wildcat Welcome Center. The facility will serve as the main gateway and hub for prospective students and their families navigating their college decisions.
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Construction on the welcome center finished just before classes began last month. The state-of-the-art space replaces the former information desk and is designed to kick off daily campus tours led by university student ambassadors, helping to craft a memorable first impression of “Wildcat Nation.”
University officials say the center is much more than a meeting point. It will host workshops for visiting high school groups, allowing them to explore academic programs, financial aid options, student life, and the application process in a dedicated, collaborative environment.
“Part of it is to make it feel a little less intimidating too,” said Kris Wong Davis, U of A Vice President for Enrollment Management and Dean of Admissions. “And just talk to us, have a conversation with our staff so it doesn’t feel like it’s a place that they don’t know anybody anymore—they have someone here they can connect with.”
For current and incoming students, the center represents an immediate sense of belonging.
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“I think it’s important to let the new students know they have a community here and there are all kinds of events happening here that can bring you to your new group,” said U of A freshman Robin Anicker.
The space itself breathes new life into the student union, partially taking over the area previously occupied by the Gallagher Theater, which once hosted movies for the student body. Now, the space will offer families a direct glimpse into what life is like as a student at the University of Arizona.
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