UW-Stout Early Experience for Incoming Students

Resources for first-year families and friends
January 16, 2026

We are thrilled to welcome your student to UW-Stout! Starting college is an exciting time, and we know it can feel like a big transition. The UW-Stout Early Experience helps make that transition easier.

This opportunity gives your student the chance to move in early, meet other students, and take part in activities that help them feel comfortable and confident on campus before classes begin. Through this experience, your student will:

  • Move in a week early, Sunday, Aug. 23, to Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026.
  • Explore campus resources that support their academic and personal success.
  • Build confidence in a new environment.
  • Form meaningful connections with peers, faculty and staff.
  • Get an early start on their college journey.

We offer three unique programs, each tailored to different interests and needs:

  • Polytechnic Launch: Engages students in hands-on learning, career exploration and networking with industry professionals. This is ideal for students excited to experience Stout’s polytechnic advantage and connect with career opportunities.
  • Stoutward Bound: A supportive living-learning community focused on building meaningful connections, a sense of belonging, and a supportive network of peers, faculty and staff.
  • TRIO Early Bridge: For students eligible for TRIO Student Support Services, this program provides individualized advisement, guidance, and resources to help them navigate college academically and personally.

This is an incredible opportunity for your student to start strong, feel supported and begin building their future at Stout. We’d love for them to be part of this experience! We encourage you to talk to your student about this opportunity. Your student can learn more about the programs and apply using their UW-Stout account login at UW-Stout Early Experience.


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