It has become a back-to-school ritual: the Student Welcome Day (JAE) brought together several thousand students this Thursday, September 25, at Castle Hill in Nice. Organized by FACE 06, the event combines meetings, activities, practical information, and concerts to welcome the new generation of Nice students.
It’s barely 2 p.m. and already, a crowd of young people is climbing the paths leading to Castle Hill. There, on this iconic site of Nice, a real student village has sprung up for an afternoon: association stands, sports activities, giant games, participative workshops, and relaxation areas follow each other under the trees, facing a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean.
Among the novelties of this 2025 edition: a “practical life” area where newcomers can ask all their questions about housing aid, university health, or transportation, an institutional village to meet university services, and even a stand dedicated to international mobility. “It’s the perfect opportunity to meet people right at the start of the year and not to feel lost when arriving in a new city,” says Sophie, 19, freshly arrived from Lyon for her first year in law.
The atmosphere is good-natured. Students compete on improvised volleyball courts, others challenge each other in a quiz on the history of Nice. Further away, a dance workshop gathers about fifty participants, while a food truck distributes pan bagnats. “Our goal is simple: for everyone to leave with contacts, useful information, and a smile,” emphasizes Lucas Bonfils, president of FACE 06, which brings together student associations in the Alpes-Maritimes.
Integration at the heart of the event
While the JAE is a festive moment, it primarily fulfills an essential mission: facilitating the integration of new students into their university and local environment. Each year, nearly 10,000 students join the University of the Cรดte d’Azur, a significant portion of whom come from other regions or even from abroad.
“We know that the first few weeks are often decisive. This day allows students not to feel isolated, to know their contacts, and to project themselves into their new life,” insists Lucas Bonfils.
The JAE is also a symbol: that of a dynamic, inclusive, and supportive student life. The event is free, open to all, and accessible to people with reduced mobility. “I just got information about housing aid and found a theater association that’s recruiting. I didn’t expect to learn so much in just one afternoon!” says Mehdi, a biology student.
An evening to kick off the year with music
The afternoon is only the first part of the celebration. Starting at 6 p.m., the heart of the JAE moves to the Theatre de Verdure, right in the city center. On stage, local DJs, student bands, and emerging artists perform one after another in front of an electrified crowd. Last year, more than 3,200 students participated in the evening.
“The evening is a moment of pure pleasure, but it’s also a way to show that student life is not just about classes: it’s a community, a collective energy,” explains Lalaina Tesan, press officer of FACE 06.
The only condition to participate is having registered in the afternoon on the Hill. It’s a way to link the practical and institutional side of the day with its festive aspect. And students do not hold back their excitement. “It’s incredible to see all this energy. It feels like being part of a big family from day one,” enthuses Sophie, already ready to dance until the end of the evening.
Between meetings, practical information, and festivities, the JAE sets the tone for a year marked by friendliness and student engagement.
