Navigating Your New Student Orientation

As summer moves from July to August, it seems as though the first week of college

classes will be here before we know it. But before that exciting first day on campus,

many incoming first-year students will participate in their Student Orientation on

their new college campus. While all of the new can be exciting and filled with potential, it

can also be overwhelming. For those of you nervous or anxious for orientation, you’re not alone! It’s the official start to the next chapter of your life, which will be filled with various information sessions, social gatherings, and meetings with your academic advisor.

Here’s The Good News

You have so many resources and support systems to help you. With a little research, you can figure out how to navigate class schedules, find your way around campus, get involved in organizations, and so much more. You’ll also likely have the first chance to meet with your academic advisor, who will help guide you through course registration, and set you up to achieve your academic goals over the next few years. Take advantage of this interaction! Share your goals and interests, and don’t be scared to tell them if you don’t know what you want to major in. This is the time to explore and be inquisitive, and their job is to help you navigate the rest!

In addition to your advisor, all the current students and staff you’ll meet at orientation will be eager to share their beloved campus with you. The staff will find ways to help you anyway they can, so whatever questions come to mind, don’t be afraid to ask! Chances are many other first-year students have the same questions that you may have, and asking that question could lead to great conversations and getting to know a new friend.

You’ll learn a lot at orientation, and meet many new people, but remember it is just the

beginning. If you leave orientation feeling just as nervous, or even more nervous than before your first official day, that’s normal! The most important thing to remember is that you’re not alone. As you acclimate to this new normal, there are always helping hands just a call or email away. Try to embrace the new and unknown, no question is a bad question, and most of all, try to have fun!