March Through the Arch
A Northwestern rite of passage.
A First-Year and Graduation Tradition
The tradition known as "March through the Arch" is a procession under the Northwestern's iconic entry gate, Arnold Weber Arch.
Each fall, incoming students, led by Northwestern University Marching Band, progress through campus to symbolically step onto the campus to begin their college experience. They are cheered on by current students, faculty and their families. The process is repeated by graduating seniors, who retrace these steps prior to graduation. This is called "Marching Back Through the Arch."
The march begins at the iconic Weber Arch, located at the corner of Sheridan Road and Chicago Avenue in Evanston.
Campus leadership, faculty members and Willie himself are present to cheer on new students.
Students march with their Peer Adviser groups, which are small groups of incoming students.
They are led by their Peer Adviser, an upper-level student who helps guide them through the summer and Wildcat Welcome.
The Northwestern University Marching Band shepherds the parade of new students through campus.
After the march, students and families often gather on Deering Meadow for a University Welcome.