Students who get connected with their college’s services, programs and resources tend to
be more successful. Connect to success with new student orientation.
Why is Orientation Important?
Some colleges build new student orientation into the advising and enrollment process. Others have a separate event shortly before classes begin. In most cases, orientation is not mandatory. But no matter the format, orientation is always recommended.
Students who attend orientation:
- Are more involved in educationally enriching activities
- Perceive the campus environment to be more supportive
- Report greater gains during their first year of college
- Are more satisfied with their overall college experience
What Does New Student Orientation Include?
It varies, but in general, student orientation includes information about:
- Campus resources and student services
- Registration procedures, important dates
- How to select courses
- Student responsibilities and faculty expectations
- Student activities, clubs and athletics
- Meeting other students, staff and faculty
Special Orientations
Besides general orientations, there may be other activities that interest you.
Department or program
New students accepted into certain programs—such as Running Start, Worker Retraining, culinary arts, health sciences or nursing—may be expected to participate in a department orientation.
Distance education
Some colleges have online information for students thinking of taking a course using distance learning technologies such as the Internet, interactive television (ITV), and educational cable television.
Information sessions
Departments and programs often provide “how to get started“ sessions for new and prospective students.
International students
Students on an F-1 visa need to know a lot to succeed in school and life in the U.S. Get information about your college, local community, how to stay in-status with Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (BCIS), student services, American classroom culture, employment options, health insurance and more.