UNH Parents Guide to Joining the Wildcat Community

UNH Parents Guide to Joining the Wildcat Community
Parents Guide
December 8, 2025

How will my student find friends and community in college? Welcome back to our Parents Guide series, where we answer common questions about your student's transition to college life. Read on to learn more about how your student will be supported by peers and take an active part in building an even stronger campus community through campus resources for inclusion and belonging. 

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The New Hampshire Outing Club welcoming new members at the University Day picnic

How will my student find friends and community?

Your student will find friends and community at UNH in a variety of ways, including more than 200 student clubs and organizations, social events in their residence halls, on-campus jobs, and fitness classes at Hamel Recreation Center. Each fall, University Day (UDay) kicks off the year with a campus-wide BBQ and student organizations fair that showcases just how vibrant and welcoming our community is. Encourage your student to explore, connect, and find their place at UNH!

What clubs can my student join?

With 200+ clubs, there's something here for everyone, whether your student wants to continue a hobby or discover something new. Here are just a few examples: WUNH: Start your own radio show. Slow Food UNH: Coordinate campus farmers' markets. Intramural & club sports: Try something new or continue a sport from high school. The New Hampshire student newspaper: Share your voice and cover campus news. NH Outing Club: Experience outdoor trips and activities for all levels.

UNH student spirit group the 'Cat Pack Captains recruiting new members at the University Day picnic
UNH students eating ice cream in downtown Durham

How will my student be included on campus?

UNH offers countless ways for students to feel a sense of belonging. In addition to hundreds of clubs and organizations, students also build connections through intramural sports, Residential Learning Communities, and religious and spiritual groups. Our supportive campus culture truly offers something for everyone. The Beauregard Center for Equity, Justice, and Freedom is a cornerstone of this welcoming environment. Here, your student will find an intersectional center that empowers students, especially those from historically excluded and underserved backgrounds, through connection, advocacy, and support.

How can my student access accessibility resources?

Student Accessibility Services offers reasonable accommodations and equal access to all UNH students with a documented disability, assisting students who have permanent or temporary disabilities that affect academics, housing, dining, and parking.

UNH students in residence hall room

Your student will thrive here.

Published
December 8, 2025