If new Kansas University students want to learn the tricky clap that accompanies the traditional fight song “I’m a Jayhawk,” they better get a head start at Hawk Week, which begins Sunday.

The New Student Orientation organization, which sponsors Hawk Week, is making it easier to learn the clap and other traditions this year.

“As I’m sure people know from being in Lawrence, KU has a lot of traditions,” said Matt Goble, Hawk Week intern. “One of the new things we’re going to do this year is print the fight song and clap pattern so the visual learners will have something to look at.”

Since July, Goble, 22, of Lawrence, has helped Heidie Grove, Hawk Week coordinator, plan and finalize events that run through Aug. 18. This is his fourth year working with the organization.

“I remember when I was a freshman, the chance I loved the most was to get out and meet people and get involved from day one,” he said. “Whether it’s going out with friends, getting free food or pre-ordering textbooks, it makes them feel involved before classes even start.”

Shanda Hurla, assistant director of the University Advising Center and Traditions Night chairwoman, said Hawk Week helps new students with “getting the basics out of the way,” such as figuring out where classes are and navigating the libraries.

“One thing we offer that’s really amazing is personal class schedule tours so you aren’t lost and know where you are going,” Grove said. “It saves a little embarrassment and you won’t be shocked when you walked into Budig (Hall) that first day.”

Budig Hall is a lecture building that holds about 1,000 students. The personal tours will be offered at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Monday through Wednesday.

Goble said his favorite event is Traditions Night, which is at 8 p.m. Monday at Memorial Stadium. A pre-show performance will feature KU student groups and organizations. The KU student group Inspirational Gospel Voices will perform the alma mater, “The Crimson and the Blue.”

Classes at KU start Thursday.