




Once you have been admitted to a school you may receive Summer Orientation information, if not check the school’s website for dates and activities. Attending Orientation is a good way to become familiar with your campus, room and board arrangements and most often time is set aside for you to meet with academic advisors and register for classes. Orientation spots can be limited so registering early is highly recommended and consider bringing a family member or two for support,
On many campuses you cannot do much without a Student ID. As soon as you arrive and learn how to have your ID made – and just do it.
Even if Orientation is not your first visit to the school it is a time set aside for you to explore and learn how to navigate the campus. Take advantage of this time and learn where every service you may want to use is and inquire as to rather or not you can or need to register for that service. Offices you may want to visit are the Medical Services, Gymnasium, Financial Aid, Bursar/Student Accounts, Cafeteria, Postal Center, Library, Book Store, Tutoring, Academic Advisor, Work Study, Student Activities, Athletic Ticket Sales, Housing and Parking. Once you know your schedule walk it and time it, you’ll be one step ahead knowing how much time it takes you to get where you want to go. Its also a good time to verify that your Financial Aid paperwork is complete, and learn what money you will need over the summer to pre pay any upcoming expenses as well as what you might need when you arrive on campus for Fall.
Depending on your major and the school you may or may not be assigned an Academic Advisor in advance. If you are assigned an Advisor, make an effort to introduce yourself on the phone or through an email before you go. If pre-scheduled appointments are allowed – get one. Be honest with your Advisor they are not there to judge you only help you find success at the school. If you have a plan let them know but if you don’t that’s alright too they are experienced at helping a variety of students.
If you can, meet with your Advisor first, then register for classes as soon as you can. Required general subjects and popular times fill up quickly. Discuss registering for an extra class or two with your Advisor, it’s a preventative measure that allows you some flexibility if a class doesn’t work well for you and provides options that can keep you on track to graduate as planned.
Many Orientations feature sign-up and information tables and/or opportunities to get to know the student activities groups active on campus. Take the time to ask some questions and find a few to sign up for. Many back-to-school events will be planned; you’ll meet some people and have some extra activities to fill your social calendar. If you haven’t already; check Facebook or other social networking sites for groups that are related to your school.
And don’t forget to have fun. If there are activities and social events that promote school spirit, even if it’s not your cup of tea, attend this
time. You never know what might be fun in your new home.
For those on a limited budget or unable to attend the Orientation dates available check with you school’s Admissions Office, they may offer a
Virtual Orientation.
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