Portland State's weekly student newsletter for the week of January 5, 2026

College is more than classes and credits — it’s also about the connections you make along the way. Whether you’re looking to meet people who share your interests, try something new, or get more involved on campus, Find Your PSU is a great place to begin.

The site brings together student organizations and student-led events so you can explore what’s happening and discover communities that match your passions. From cultural groups and creative outlets to advocacy, gaming, and service, there’s something for everyone.

Getting connected can help you feel more at home at PSU — and the friendships and experiences you build can last well beyond your time here.

Monday, Jan. 5: Classes begin

Sunday, Jan 11: Last day to drop with 100% refund, Last day to add courses online 

Academic Calendar  | myPSU  | Registrar

Ready for the beginning of term? Student Academic Support Services offers a wealth of resources to enhance your study strategies and create a successful plan! Make your tutoring appointment or select an Academic Coach that will best fit your learning needs. Services are free and available to ALL students, so make your appointment today!

Whether you are a new student or returning to PSU, stop by the Welcome Week Table! Get answers to your questions, directions to your classes, or take advantage of extended hours for drop-in advising. Learn about helpful resources for your first week and beyond.

Tabling Events:

Jan. 5 and Jan. 6
8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. 
First floor Smith Memorial Student Union (SMSU) and first floor Fariborz Maseeh Hall (FMH)

Extended drop-in Advising:

Jan. 5 - Jan. 9
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

It's important to submit your 2026-27 FAFSA by March 1 in order to receive the most aid next year. The deadline for the PSU General Scholarship Application is also fast approaching on March 1. PSU’s Financial Wellness Center is hosting workshops on FAFSA or General Scholarships in January and February, to help you be well prepared financially next academic year!

This Week’s Workshops:

In-Person Scholarship Workshop: Tues., Jan. 6
Virtual FAFSA Workshop: Wed., Jan. 7
In-Person FAFSA Workshop: Thurs., Jan. 8

You can learn more about the help that’s available and the people who work at the Financial Wellness Center in the article, “Finance is Scary! Let’s Talk About It"  on the Inside Portland State Blog!

Kick off the new year and explore opportunities for wellbeing at Campus Recreation's annual Winter Rec Fest! Discover what the Rec Center has to offer and enter the raffle to win exclusive prizes. Participate in fun activities including archery tag and target shooting, pickleball, log rolling in the pool, climbing challenges, Group X sampler classes every 15 minutes and Personal Trainer challenges. Bring a friend and stay for a few minutes or the full two hours. The first 100 attendees can snag some free SWAG! 

Wednesday Jan. 14
4 - 6 p.m. 
Campus Rec

Are you interested in getting moving but feeling intimidated to get started? If so, Rec Buddies is for you! Rec Buddies matches you with a staff member and another Rec buddy to help increase your comfort in the Campus Recreation Center. Rec Buddies will meet for four weeks to explore Campus Rec's various programs and services. Learn what kind of movement brings you joy, build community and more. Space is limited so be sure to submit your interest form by Friday, Jan. 9!

Cheer on the Trail Blazers with PSU alumni, faculty, staff and students on Jan. 15 as they take on the Atlanta Hawks. The first 50 to purchase tickets will receive an exclusive, limited-edition co-branded Portland State x Trail Blazers sweatshirt. 

Jan. 15
7 p.m. 
Moda Center 
$38.15 - $89.02

How green is campus culture and how can it be stronger? The Sustainability Literacy & Culture Survey helps PSU understand what faculty, staff and students know, value and do when it comes to sustainability. Your answers will directly shape future programs, events and initiatives that make campus more sustainable and socially responsible. The short, multiple-choice survey takes just a few minutes. There are no right or wrong answers — it's all about your perspective.

PSU's Multimedia Production Team is working toward solutions to decrease poverty for unhoused individuals. Check out the new website featuring videos, blogs and statistics about the benefits of micro-income and community anchoring. Learn how you can help make a difference in the Portland metropolitan area.

Tribal Relations at PSU is partnering with Applied Linguistics and Tribes across Oregon to launch a Tribal Language Speaker Series at PSU. Tribal partners are invited to present their language program's history, revitalization efforts and future projects. Join one or both of the January events to be a part of this new initiative.

Wed., Jan. 14
Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe of Indians with Elizabeth Bryant, Lead Takelma Teacher Learner
Wed., Jan. 28
Coquille Indian Tribe with Dr. Jaeci Hall, Language Program Manager

Both events will be held from 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. at the Native American Student and Community Center (NASCC). 

When Grad School is a Zoo

Portland State University’s biology department and the Oregon Zoo have partnered for years on a little-known graduate program that allows students to conduct hands-on research on animal wellbeing and conservation while attending classes at PSU. Few of these programs exist in the U.S. This month’s Portland State Magazine features the program, its students and instructors, and the ways it has benefited the animals in the Oregon Zoo. Be sure to also check out the behind-the-scenes video at the zoo!

Biology Seminar Series 

L@L - Forest Bailey

Beginner Climb Night

INFO SESSION PSU Faculty-Led: Italy: Living Rome  

INFO SESSION PSU Faculty-Led: PSU Faculty-Led: Italy: Catania 

Ye Olde Study Social

Meet the Economics Faculty Coffee Hour

L@L The Hugs

International Student Climb Night

Music @ Midday: Joe Manis Quartet

Virtual Viking is Portland State University's student newsletter, published weekly by University Communications. To submit a news item or event, email virtualv@pdx.edu.

Visit Virtual Viking for submission guidelines and deadlines.