Register for orientation if not done

Overview

Orientation registration may still be open or re-opened as you prepare for fall. Complete any remaining orientation prep.

If You Haven't Registered Yet

• Log in to student portal
• Select orientation session
• Pay orientation fee
• Book travel if needed

Orientation Types

Summer Orientation

• Most common
• 1-3 days during June, July, August
• Includes course registration
• Campus overview

Fall Welcome Week

• Few days before classes start
• More social focus
• Already-enrolled students
• Additional to summer orientation

International Student Orientation

• Longer for international students
• Immigration/visa advising
• Cultural transition
• Usually arrives before domestic students

Transfer Orientation

• Shorter than freshman orientation
• Focus on credit transfer, advising
• May be same session as freshmen or separate

Pre-Orientation Prep

Complete Assignments

• Read assigned summer books
• Complete math placement if required
• Take language placement
• Submit health forms

Tech Setup

• Activate university email
• Set up multi-factor authentication
• Install required apps (learning management, library access)
• Test connectivity

Course Research

• Review requirements for your major
• Check AP/IB credit acceptance
• Plan potential schedule
• Prepare questions for advisor

Logistics

• Book travel
• Pack for 1-3 days
• Bring needed documents
• Note orientation address and schedule

What to Bring

• Photo ID
• Student ID if issued
• Completed health forms
• Insurance information
• Financial aid documentation
• Transcripts
• AP/IB score reports
• Laptop/tablet
• Water bottle and snacks
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Layered clothing

Orientation Day

Activities

• Check-in and welcome
• Campus tour
• Academic advising
• Course registration
• Mental health panel
• Residence life overview
• Diversity and inclusion session
• Social ice-breakers
• Group photo

Meal Options

• Dining hall experience
• Sample food at multiple locations
• Ask about meal plans
• Note dietary accommodations

Housing Tour

• See dorms where you'll live
• Understand layout
• Meet residence advisor (RA)
• Check out common areas

Student Panel

• Current students share experiences
• Ask candid questions
• Note cultural insights

Advising Appointment

• Academic plan for semester
• Course selection
• Long-term planning
• Major-specific questions
• Balance of requirements and interests

Course Registration

• At orientation
• Following advisor recommendations
• Priority usually goes in order of orientation attendance
• Some flexibility for unique situations

Meeting Classmates

• Ice-breakers designed to introduce you
• Exchange contact info
• Social media groups
• Stay in touch post-orientation

Parent Participation

• One day typically included
• Parent-only sessions available
• Separate from student sessions
• Opportunity for families to meet

Accessibility

• Requests for accommodations
• Mobility devices
• Service animals
• Dietary needs
• Religious observance
• Mental health support

Evening Activities

• Social events with other students
• Optional but encouraged
• Build early connections
• Explore campus

After Orientation

Review Notes

• Course registration confirmation
• Advisor recommendations
• Campus resources learned
• Contacts made

Follow Up

• Email advisor with remaining questions
• Connect with roommate (if matched)
• Join student organizations of interest

Plan Move-In

• Confirm housing assignment
• Schedule move-in
• Arrange transportation
• Purchase final items

Common Orientation Mistakes

• Showing up unprepared
• Not completing pre-orientation tasks
• Missing mandatory sessions
• Ignoring advising advice
• Not engaging with other students
• Treating it as a vacation

Mental Health

• Orientation can be overwhelming
• Pace yourself
• Take breaks when needed
• Drink water, eat well
• Sleep even if FOMO

Long-Term Value

Orientation sets the tone for your college experience:

• First impressions of school and people
• Foundation for first semester
• Network of friends
• Connection to college culture