Beyond Blocks | August 28 - October 31, 2025
Designed to offer a wide range of engaging opportunities where you can connect with peers who share your interests. These programs follow a drop-in format, and registration is not required. We encourage you to explore as many as you'd like and dive into what inspires you most.
Please note: Events are subject to change.
August 2025
2–3 p.m. | Institute Archives and Special Collections Dept, 3rd Floor of Folsom Library
History Revealed: Rensselaer History and Traditions
Visit the Archives! Get to know Rensselaer's archivists, and take an engaging look at the Institution’s founding, evolving campus life, and notable alumni. This tour will highlight major milestones, unique traditions, student life, and organizations that have shaped Rensselaer's identity. Through archival material and various historical objects and memorabilia, this tour ensures greater understanding and appreciation of Rensselaer's dynamic past, helping to connect students to their new academic home.
5–7 p.m. | Chabad House of RPI, 1908 Burdett Ave
Chabad of RPI Cha-BBQ Welcome Party
Join us at the Chabad House of RPI and enjoy a kosher meal at your Jewish Home Away From Home! Meet the Morrison Family, club officers, and learn about the many events Chabad hosts throughout the year. Vegan options available but don't expect any cheeseburgers at this barbeque! There is no dress code, religious requirements, or Jewish heritage necessary, all are welcome! Spots are limited! Please reach out to Chabad of RPI with any questions, concerns or allergies.
6–11:30 p.m. | Rensselaer Union Games Room
RPI Smash Club Freshman Bracket
Come and check out the Super Smash Brothers Club, with free entry into a freshman-only tournament! Test your might or just have fun playing the game and meeting like-minded people!
1–3 p.m. | Mueller Center
RecWell at the Mueller Center Open House
Tour the facility to learn about our recreation and wellness offerings. Tours depart every 30 minutes.
6:30 p.m. | McNeil Room
Night of Performances
Music, dance, and improv—come support the performing arts talent of the class of 2029! This multifaceted performance features '29ers who spent their NRB sessions developing sets with improv troupe Sheer Idiocy, Rensselaer Music Association (RMA) Jazz and Symphonic bands, and Dance Club!
9 a.m.–2 p.m. | Downtown Troy
Troy Waterfront Farmers Market
Visit one of the region’s largest farmers and vendor market. The market is outdoors May through October and indoors November through April in the Troy Atrium.
10 a.m.–12 p.m. | J-Building Large Rehearsal Room
100% Natural Noise - America's Pep Band!
Come meet America’s Pep Band and get a feel for what we’re all about! Bring your instruments; we’ll play some of the music we play at hockey and football games. Sousaphones and percussion will be provided, and, if needed, we may be able to provide woodwind and brass instruments. All instruments and skill levels are welcome!
11 a.m.–3 p.m. | Union Arcade Lounge
Press Start: RPI Esports
RPI Esports invites you to the school's official gaming community and our new esports lounge!
1–3 p.m. | Shelnut Gallery – Union Room 3606
Faith in Community: A First-Year Welcome
Welcome! First-year students from Muslim, Jewish, and Christian backgrounds can come together to connect and build community. You’ll have the chance to learn about the faith-based organizations on campus, find resources that can support you, and meet others over a slice of pizza. Whether you’re looking to grow in your faith, gain new perspectives, or simply find your place here, this event is a great way to start your journey with us!
1–3 p.m. | Rensselaer Union Games Room
CS Club Ice Cream Social
Stop by and get some free ice cream from HackRPI! You’ll also get to meet other freshmen and upperclassmen; and you’ll learn more about HackRPI, other CS clubs on campus, and upcoming events. There will be free stickers, shirts, and other swag!
1–3 p.m. | Union Multicultural Room (RU 3202)
Boba & Bites with SASE
Enjoy some boba tea and Asian treats with the Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers (SASE)! Meet your new classmates in fun games and activities, seek advice and connections with upperclassmen, and learn all about the social and professional opportunities our organization has to offer.
2–4 p.m. | J-Building Large Rehearsal Room
Percussion Ensemble Open Rehearsal
Open rehearsal of percussion ensemble in J, where we will sight-read easy and fun charts. At the start, I'll be giving a run-down of all the percussion opportunities in the RMA (jazz groups, rock groups, symphonic, etc.)
10 a.m.–12 p.m. | Mueller Center Studios 1 & 2
RPI Dance Team - Open Practice
Come see what practice is like on the RPI Dance Team! We perform Pom, Hip Hop and Jazz routines at RPI home football and basketball games and compete at NDA Nationals. Whether you have previous experience in dance, cheer, gymnastics or something similar, this is a great opportunity for students to be able to get a taste of what the RPI Dance Team does. We will be working on skills and technique and learning dance team choreography, followed by an info session at the end. Be sure to wear athletic clothes and bring water. We cannot wait to see you there!
12–3 p.m. | '86 Field
Multicultural and Diversity Barbeque
This event will be a barbeque with multiple multicultural organizations and clubs. First year students are welcome to play lawn games and eat food with the organizations as a way of learning more about the cultural professional organizations and clubs.
2–4 p.m. | J-Building Studio
Experimental Music Quinetet
We play modern jazz fusion (ex: Sungazer, Kneebody, Bob Reynolds Group). We are hosting a jam session to showcase the jazz oriented small groups the RMA offers. Contact Conrad (cheunc2@rpi.edu) for more information.
2:30–4 p.m. | J-building Small Rehearsal Room
Clarinet Choir Open Rehearsal
Join us for our first clarinet choir rehearsal of the semester. We play all sorts of music from transcriptions of classical/band repertoire, jazz and traditional folk music, as well as music from video games and movies. Auxiliary clarinets (Alto, Bass, and Contrabass clarinets) will be available to anyone interested in playing them.
5 p.m. | Chapel + Cultural Center 2125 Burdett Ave., Troy, NY 12180
Catholic Mass
Catholic Mass offered especially for university students, a time to step away from the busyness of campus life, reflect, and be renewed in faith. All are welcome to attend this uplifting celebration of the Eucharist, connect with our vibrant student community, and grow spiritually during your time at college.
6 p.m. | Lawn outside the Chapel + Cultural Center
Catholic Community Welcome Picnic for Rensselaer Students
Join us as we kick off the fall semester with food, fellowship, and fun! Right after the 5:00 PM Mass at the Chapel + Cultural Center, we’re hosting a Catholic Community Welcome Picnic for all Rensselaer students on Sunday of Labor Day Weekend - August 31, 2025.
Whether you're returning to campus or new to the community, come hang out, meet new friends, enjoy delicious food, and take part in games and activities. It’s a great way to unwind before classes are in full swing, reconnect with friends, and get to know the vibrant Catholic community at RPI.
7–8 p.m. | DCC, 324
Time Management Workshop
Learn to balance your new slate of academic responsibilities, social life, and day-to-day functions. It’s all doable, we promise.
September 2025
9–11 a.m. | Start and Finish will be in the ECAV Lobby
Fun 5K Run/Walk
Join Rensselaer Running Club and the Counseling Center for a fun 5K run/walk! Whether you are a competitive racer or someone just wanting to enjoy the outdoor air, we have a place for you. Here, you’ll get to run/walk around a local park, meet people with similar interests, have some post-race snacks, learn about support opportunities at RPI, and enjoy the good vibes!
7–9 p.m. | J-Building Large Rehearsal Room
Introduction to Strings in the RMA
Do you play a string instrument? Do you want to learn to play a string instrument? Join us for a string musician meet-up! We'll be discussing options for string players in the RMA, including groups looking for members, rental options, and resources for learning a new instrument. Bring your violin, cello, bass, guitar, ukulele, whatever string instrument you play and maybe we'll jam a bit. If you don't have an instrument, contact Danielle (Email: villad4@rpi.edu, Discord: _dandragon) and we'll arrange something for you.
6:30 p.m. | Chapel + Cultural Center 2125 Burdett Ave., Troy, NY 12180
Newman Catholic Fellowship
Are you a Catholic student looking for fellowship and community? Are you interested in putting your faith into action? Are you curious about how to deepen your relationship with God? Do you have questions about your faith? Then come for dinner and see what we are all about! All are welcome!
9–9:45 p.m. | RU 3202 (Rensselaer union 3rd floor, 3202)
RPI TV GBM
Come meet the team behind producing live events such as D1 Hockey, Football, Soccer, Acapella Groups, Dance Groups, and more. These events are streamed to both ESPN and YouTube.
6–7:30 p.m. | The Archer Center for Student Leadership Development, located in Academy Hall
Intro to LEAP Night
Our Intro to LEAP night will consist of an introduction to LEAP as an organization. After this introduction we will eat pizza and play games and demonstrate the types of activities we do as an organization.
6–7:30 p.m. | South 208 Vorhees (VCC)
Quantum Computing Unveiled: A Journey through Qiskit and Beyond!
We will start our session with a guided tour of the IBM Quantum Computer housed in the VCC, during which we'll discuss fundamental concepts of quantum computing and answer any related questions. Following the tour, we will deliver a Google Slides presentation that introduces Qiskit, the Python library for quantum computing. This presentation will help attendees understand the basics of quantum circuits and show them how to execute code on a quantum computer. We expect the entire session to last between 40 minutes and an hour.
6–7:30 p.m. | Union Mothers Room
Irish and Bluegrass Folk Jam
A beyond block to meet and jam with the folk bands of RPI. The first 45 minutes will be playing with Ceili Band, the traditional Irish group, and the next 45 minutes will be playing with Not Quite Bluegrass. We can provide music so that people can play along if they wish.
7–9 p.m. | Union Ellsworth Room
Big Band Bonanza
Join us as we read some jazz big band music. Rhythm instruments and large winds will be provided for anyone that needs an instrument.
7–9 p.m. | J-Building Large Rehearsal Room
Studio Orchestra Soundtrack Jam
Come jam with the Rensselaer Music Association’s Studio Orchestra! Music will be played from popular movies, video games, and other forms of media, provided during the block. All instruments and skill levels are welcome, from strings, to brass, to percussion, to winds.
8 a.m.–4 p.m. | '86 Field
All the Things You Can Do with Ham Radio
From talking to people around the world to talking with satellites in orbit, RPI's Amateur Radio Club W2SZ in conjunction with the Warren County Amateur Radio Club will be demonstrating what is possible with the wide world of Amateur Radio! Want to learn more about radio communications and possibly even operate a radio yourself? Make sure to stop by the trailer this Thursday!
4–6 p.m. | Academy Hall 4600
First-Gen/BIPOC Ice Cream Social
Enjoy ice cream while you learn about RPI’s services, resources, and study spaces.
6:30 p.m. | Union 3602
Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) GBM 1: Kickstart Your SHPE Journey!
Come meet our Executive Board, play some games, grab some good free food, and get a glimpse into what SHPE is all about, both at RPI and nationally. Whether you're looking for a new community, leadership opportunities, professional development, or just a good time, it all starts here. Don't miss it!
7–9 p.m. | J-Building Large Rehearsal Room
Symphonic Band Open Rehearsal
Join the first RMA Symphonic Band rehearsal of the year! We'll have conductor/manager introductions, and pass out some fun concert band music.
7–9 p.m. | Mueller Center Studios 1 & 2
RPI Dance Team - Open Practice
Come see what practice is like on the RPI Dance Team! We perform Pom, Hip Hop and Jazz routines at RPI home football and basketball games and compete at NDA Nationals. Whether you have previous experience in dance, cheer, gymnastics or something similar, this is a great opportunity for students to be able to get a taste of what the RPI Dance Team does. We will be working on skills and technique and learning dance team choreography, followed by an info session at the end. Be sure to wear athletic clothes and bring water. We cannot wait to see you there!
5–7 p.m. | Anderson Field
Learn Ultimate Frisbee
All experience levels are welcome! Come learn the rules, how to throw & make plays, and meet some new peers! We will do some drills and finally scrimmage, putting all the knowledge together.
6–8 p.m. | Heffner Alumni House
Red & White Trivia and Game Night
Ever wanted to participate in a game show, proving your trivia skill to millions of people? Well now is your chance (minus the millions of people part)! For the first hour, compete in Red & White’s Jeopardy, with snacks, drinks, and an ice cream bar available! The winners of our Jeopardy will, of course, receive a prize. Then, for the next hour, have fun with board games, cornhole, and other activities! So if you think you got what it takes to come out on top and prove your trivia superiority, then join us!
6–9 p.m. | Union McNeil Room
RPI Ballroom Intro Dance
Come on out for an introduction to dancesport and ballroom dancing! no partner or experience required.
1–2:30 p.m. | Martial Arts Dojo, '87 Gym
Self Defense Seminar w/ TKD Club
Learn self-defense with RPI Tae Kwon Do Club to learn how to stay safe during your college experience.
2–4 p.m. | Mueller Dance Room
Move Your Body with Wedeymove
Come and enjoy a day of learning Afrocentric dancing with members of ASA’s very own wedeymove. All skill levels are welcome to join, so if you want to learn to gbese and out-legwork people at parties now is your chance!
6–8 p.m. | JEC 3207
Ice Cream Social with Spaceflight Society
Meet some of the current members of the Spaceflight Society! Learn about some of our projects, including the liquid rocket engine and Lunar R&D! Ice cream and drinks will be provided.
1–3 p.m. | RPI Challenge Course
Challenge Course Day with LEAP
Dive in Deeper into LEAP by participating on RPI’s new low ropes challenge course. Have fun, challenge yourself, and make new friends by experiencing a fully designed workshop by trained LEAP facilitators.
4–5:30 p.m. | Muller Center Classroom
Beading and bracelets with Club Softball!
Have you ever wanted to try a new sport? Or are you a previous player looking to get back into the game? Come check out Club Softball while we make some beaded bracelets! Come meet the team and learn more about our program. Beginners encouraged! We can't wait to see you there!
7–9 p.m. | 87 West Gym
RPI Cheerleading Open Practice
Join RPI Cheerleading for an open practice and learn about the team. No experience required!
4–6 p.m. | Lawn North of Amos Eaton
Math Club Ice Cream Social
Introduction of Math Club and Pi Mu Epsilon Honor Society to new students over ice cream. Rain location: Amos Eaton 4th floor
5–7 p.m. | CII 3206
Industrial Engineering Welcome Party
The student chapter of the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers will be hosting a get-to-know and welcome party for all students interested in Industrial and Management Engineering! Meet new students, upperclassmen, and professors while enjoying fun games and snacks!
7–8 p.m. | DCC, 324
Time Management Workshop
Learn to balance your new slate of academic responsibilities, social life, and day-to-day functions. It’s all doable, we promise.
7–9 p.m. | DCC 113
WRPI Troy Tech Time
Come in and learn about our tech department, and mess around with technology and wires!
6–10 p.m. | Sage 3101
RPI Humans Vs. Zombies Blaster Build Night
Join RPI Humans Vs. Zombies on a fun-filled night learning how to build your own foam dart blaster with a chance to take one home for yourself! There will be free pizza and beverages along with entertainment!
7 p.m. | EMPAC Studio 1
[Switch~ Ensemble]
Public concert of four world premieres in experimental music. With RPI ID: Free at doors / $5 in advance guarantees entry.
10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Troy Farm's Market: Monument Square in Downtown Troy
International Students Farmer’s Market Meet Up!
Meet other international students while exploring the local farmer’s market! Discover fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade goods, while practicing using U.S. currency in a real-world setting. This trip is for international students, exchange students, and scholars.
7–8 p.m. | DCC, 324
Study Habits Workshop
What is the best way to prepare for exams? Hint: It’s not a quick review the night before. Learn how to study in a way that works for you.
4–6 p.m. | Sage 2211
LEGO Social hosted by Design, Innovation, and Society (DIS)
At this relaxing social event, you can build and play with LEGO while learning about more opportunities for "hands-on humanities" through the Design, Innovation, and Society program.
6 p.m. | Houston Field House
Women's Hockey vs. Minnesota State University, Mankato
7–9 p.m. | DCC 113
Karaoke with WRPI Troy
Come join us for a fun night of singing and shenanigans at WRPI Troy!
12 p.m. | ECAV, Stadium
Men’s Football vs. SUNY Brockport
3 p.m. | Houston Field House
Women's Hockey vs. Minnesota State University, Mankato
3–4 p.m. | New Theater in the Union
Sheer Idiocy Comedy Improv Workshop
Practice Comedy Improv with RPI's best and only improv troupe. You will learn skills such as characterization, content generation, dramatic storytelling, and comedic timing while building on everyday things like self-confidence and public speaking skills.
6–9 p.m. | DCC 113
Hang Out and Meet the Ecomm
Come hang out in the station with us, listen to music, and get to meet the WRPI Ecomm board!
7–8 p.m. | DCC, 324
Study Habits Workshop
What is the best way to prepare for exams? Hint: It’s not a quick review the night before. Learn how to study in a way that works for you.
2–3 p.m. | Institute Archives and Special Collections Dept, 3rd Floor of Folsom Library
History Revealed: Rensselaer History and Traditions
Visit the Archives! Get to know Rensselaer's archivists, and take an engaging look at the Institution’s founding, evolving campus life, and notable alumni. This tour will highlight major milestones, unique traditions, student life, and organizations that have shaped Rensselaer's identity. Through archival material and various historical objects and memorabilia, this tour ensures greater understanding and appreciation of Rensselaer's dynamic past, helping to connect students to their new academic home.
11 a.m.–3 p.m. | DCC 113
Learning the Live Studio at WRPI Troy
Come hang with us and learn the ins and outs of the live department, recording music, and hosting bands!
12 p.m. | ECAV, Stadium
Men’s Football vs. University of Rochester
October 2025
6 p.m. | Houston Field House
Women's Hockey vs. Sacred Heart University
7 p.m. | EMPAC Studio 1
Thuy-Han Nguyễn-Chi
Be part of a scene in the artist’s new film. With RPI ID: Free at doors / $5 in advance guarantees entry.
10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Off Campus
International Students Go Apple Picking!
A classic fall activity in the U.S., this is a perfect way to explore local culture and connect with international classmates. Pick fresh apples, enjoy the fall scenery, and make new friends along the way. This trip is for international students, exchange students, and scholars.
7 p.m. | Houston Field House
Men’s Hockey vs. Miami University (OH)
1 p.m. | ECAV, Stadium
Men’s Football vs. Buffalo State
6 p.m. | Houston Field House
Men’s Hockey vs. Miami University (OH)
2–3 p.m. | Institute Archives and Special Collections Dept, 3rd Floor of Folsom Library
History Revealed: Rensselaer History and Traditions
Visit the Archives! Get to know Rensselaer's archivists, and take an engaging look at the Institution’s founding, evolving campus life, and notable alumni. This tour will highlight major milestones, unique traditions, student life, and organizations that have shaped Rensselaer's identity. Through archival material and various historical objects and memorabilia, this tour ensures greater understanding and appreciation of Rensselaer's dynamic past, helping to connect students to their new academic home.
7 p.m. | Houston Field House
Men’s Hockey vs. Boston College
4 p.m. | Houston Field House
Men’s Hockey vs. Providence College
August 24-26
Family Weekend
Join us for athletic events, fun fall activities, annual traditions, and performances.
6 p.m. | Houston Field House
Women's Hockey vs. St. Lawrence University
7 p.m. | EMPAC Studio 1
Stevie Manning, Soraya Chemaly: We Will Not Be Composed
Public concert of new multimedia work. With RPI ID: Free at doors / $5 in advance guarantees entry.
August 24-26
Family Weekend
Join us for athletic events, fun fall activities, annual traditions, and performances.
3 p.m. | Houston Field House
Women's Hockey vs. Clarkson University
6 p.m. | EMPAC Studio 1
Suneil Sanzgiri: An Impossible Address
Public film premiere. With iEAR Presents! With RPI ID: Free at doors / $5 in advance guarantees entry.
