Get Ready for College Orientation! Posted byJohn Hall May 28, 2023May 28, 2023 Get Ready for College Orientation! By unigooffice In the upcoming weeks, students all over the country are gearing up for their college journeys and eagerly anticipating their college orientation. Nowadays, numerous colleges require freshmen to attend orientation before they can register for fall classes. However, some schools still leave the decision to participate up to the students, particularly those hosting events earlier in the summer. Regardless of whether attendance is mandatory or not, it is highly recommended that you take part in these well-planned activities. College orientation provides invaluable information for both incoming students and their families, alleviating common anxieties associated with leaving home and embarking on a new chapter in life. Moreover, it offers reassurance to parents who may struggle with letting go. Building connections during orientation can also lay a solid foundation for a successful transition into college life. Let’s explore what you can expect during your new student orientation. WHAT TO EXPECT Before the orientation concludes, you will most likely register for your fall classes, as well. To ensure you get the classes you need or desire, review the course catalog and college website prior to arriving for orientation and have a list of classes you prefer. It’s a good idea to have a second and third choice, just in case the classes are no longer available when you register. Here are a few other things you may want to bring with you during orientation. WHAT TO BRING Campus Tours: Even if you have previously toured the campus before making your decision, college orientation offers a more comprehensive tour. You can anticipate visiting key locations such as the financial aid office, student union, administration buildings, and dormitories. Pay close attention to your dorm room layout, take photos, and measurements to avoid overpacking when you return in the summer. This is also an excellent opportunity to ask any questions that may not have been addressed on the school’s website or in housing contracts. Student Life Discussions: You will have the chance to engage with individuals from various departments who will provide an overview of campus life. These discussions may involve athletic directors, Greek organization leaders, student government officers, and others involved in organizing student activities both on and off campus. Breakout Sessions: Expect to meet with your academic advisors, have conversations with financial aid officials, and explore study abroad opportunities during orientation. A significant portion of your time will be spent absorbing a wealth of information and asking pertinent questions. Campus Organization Fair: Most colleges arrange an informational fair for incoming students, where campus clubs, academic societies, and Greek organizations set up tables to showcase their roles on campus. This is an excellent chance to meet like-minded individuals and take a breather from lectures on campus regulations. Meet & Greet Events: Your college will likely organize several opportunities for students to interact with administrators, faculty, alumni, and current students. These events are often informal, and some schools even host dances and mixers in the evenings. For those who are more reserved, this is an ideal time to forge new friendships before move-in day arrives. Housekeeping Tasks: While orientation primarily focuses on introducing you to available campus resources through discussions and breakout sessions, it also presents an opportunity to take care of certain administrative tasks. You should bring your vaccination records to submit to the medical unit, purchase a parking pass if necessary, and obtain your student identification card while on campus. Some colleges may also offer placement tests for math, English, and foreign language classes during this time. Towards the end of orientation, you will likely have the chance to register for your fall classes. To ensure you secure the classes you need or desire, familiarize yourself with the course catalog and college website before arriving for orientation. It’s advisable to have alternative choices in case your preferred classes are no longer available when you register. Here are a few items you should consider bringing with you to orientation. Comfortable Clothing: Orientation often involves a fair amount of walking, so it’s wise to wear comfortable shoes and lightweight clothing. Dressing in layers is recommended since lecture halls can be cooler than the warm summer weather outside. Snacks: While many schools provide free breakfast, lunch, and dinner during orientation, it’s a good idea to have snacks on hand for longer sessions. Pack your backpack with items like granola bars, nuts, and water to keep you energized and satisfied. Avoid bringing noisy foods like chips, as they can disrupt the proceedings. Protective Items: Depending on your college’s location, you may need items like sunscreen, lip balm, and bug spray for outdoor tours. Southern colleges can be particularly warm during the summer, and it only takes a few minutes to get sunburned and dehydrated. If you’re not accustomed to high humidity, these conditions can be challenging. Don’t forget to bring a hat and sunglasses, especially if you’re headed to a sunny state. Money: Make sure to have enough cash on hand, as you may need it for your student ID card, parking pass, and other expenses. While many meals are covered, some may not be, and you might want to explore dining options off-campus. Additionally, you may wish to visit the campus bookstore and grab some college-themed apparel for your friends and family back home. Linens & Toiletries: Confirm with your college whether they provide bed linens and towels during your stay. In most cases, students are expected to bring their own sheets, pillowcases, towels, and toiletries since they’ll be staying in vacant dorm rooms. Remember to pack a pair of flip flops or shower shoes as well. Other Items: As orientation involves a lot of information absorption, it’s a good idea to have a pen and notebook on hand to jot down important dates, requirements, and questions that arise during lectures and breakout sessions. Consider bringing a tape measure to help you plan your dorm room and a camera to capture memories. Don’t forget to bring a phone charger and remember to keep your phone on silent during lectures and important discussions. While many parents accompany their children to orientation, it’s important to remember that this is a time for students to discover their new home. Allow them to take the lead during tours and sessions. Parents should observe from a distance or, even better, let their children enjoy this experience independently. It can be challenging to let go, but giving students space is crucial for their growth and success. Conclusion n conclusion, college orientation is an exciting and crucial step in your journey towards higher education. Whether it is a mandatory requirement or a voluntary opportunity, participating in orientation can provide numerous benefits for both students and their families. From campus tours and student life discussions to breakout sessions and meet-and-greet events, orientation offers a wealth of information, resources, and connections that can help ease the transition into college life. It is an opportunity to familiarize yourself with campus facilities, academic support systems, and extracurricular opportunities while meeting new people who share your interests. Moreover, orientation allows you to take care of important administrative tasks and register for fall classes, ensuring a smooth start to your academic journey. As you prepare for your college orientation, remember to pack essential items such as comfortable clothing, snacks, protective items, and necessary documents. Keep an open mind, ask questions, and take advantage of the opportunities to engage with faculty, staff, and fellow students. While parents may want to support their children during this time, giving them space to navigate orientation independently can empower their personal growth and self-discovery. Embrace this exciting chapter in your life and make the most of your college orientation. It lays the foundation for a successful college experience and sets the stage for new friendships, academic achievements, and personal development. Get ready to embark on an incredible journey of learning, growth, and endless possibilities as you begin your college adventure. Good luck!