KEVIN KLAUS/Arizona Daily Wildcat As part of Wildcat Welcome Thursday afternoon, CCIT employee Kelley Bogart, left, answers questions by undecided freshman Lisa Ramsey, right, and her mother Patti.

When most students move into the dorms they get help from their parents, friends and roommates ÷ but some opt for help from top university administrators.

It's called Wildcat Welcome Week, and the program, which is in its fourth year, kicked off Wednesday as university faculty, administrators and staff helped new students move into their residence halls.

The program is in full swing and offers students food, directions to class, entertainment, tours of campus and free shuttles to malls and grocery stores, said Juliette Moore, the director of campus recreation.

With a $35,000 price tag, the week event is primarily run by the University Activities Board and includes several events each day to help students find their way around campus and create an open and welcoming environment.

Today's activities include a poster and vendor fair on the mall, a Child Care and Family Resources Open House and a planetarium show at the Flandrau Science Center. Also, volunteers will be in booths and golf carts around various parts of the campus to help with directions. Students can also enjoy free Eegees on the UA Mall from noon to 1 p.m.

"Our goal is to help students find their way around campus and help freshmen become accustomed to campus life," said Chrissy Lieberman, an arts education masters student and a campus activities coordinator.

The events will culminate with the Freshman Sizzle, a tailgating event that will include free food and drinks before the first football game Saturday. Thursday's events will include an improvisational comedy show at the Student Union Memorial Center and free ice cream on the Mall from noon to 1 p.m. Students are also invited to wear red clothing to show school spirit on Thursday.

One of the most popular activities was Friday's barbecue at Bear Down Gym. Approximately 1,000 students and parents participated in the event.

"I have residents who were very excited to meet people their age and get involved in school and excited about it. It's good for freshman to meet people their age and get involved and excited about school," said Rachel Williamson, a Palm Shadows resident assistant.

Moore agrees with Williamson but also thinks the barbecue provided parents with a great opportunity to meet UA parents from across the country. Moore said that the program was a success despite being affected by the statewide education cutbacks. The $60,000 program was only partially funded by the university. UAB and other university employees raised donations from Tucson area businesses and private individuals, she said.