Starting college is an exciting adventure, filled with new opportunities and experiences. One of the first steps is freshman orientation. But what exactly is freshman orientation? What does it involve, and why is it important? Let’s talk about it.
What is Freshman Orientation in College?
Flickr user Oglethorpe University
Freshman orientation is essentially an introduction to college life at the college or university you’re attending. It typically occurs before the start of the academic year. The purpose is to familiarize incoming students with campus resources, academic expectations, and social opportunities, helping them feel more confident and prepared as they begin their college journey. At most orientations, students will:
- Tour the campus
- Participate in presentations to learn about school and safety policies and more
- Receive their student IDs
- Have the opportunity to meet with a financial aid officer
- Take placement tests
- Create their course schedules
Let’s explore more about this college orientation.
The Itinerary Is Different from One Campus to Another
Before you head to your freshman college orientation, be sure to check out the paperwork they’ve sent you. It should include a detailed schedule of what’s planned for the day (or days) and what you should bring.
Every campus has its own way of organizing orientation. Some may group you by your major, some split students into random groups, and some address everyone altogether. The length of orientation varies too. Some schools pack the day with activities while others keep it limited to afternoon sessions.
Attending orientation is a requirement and some schools while not at others. It’s generally though recommended that you attend even if yours isn’t mandatory.
There are just 8 important things that you’ll benefit from on your orientation.
1. Tour the Campus
This is a standard feature at almost all college orientations. No orientation is considered complete without a tour of the campus.
During the tour, you’ll get an idea of where all the academic and extracurricular facilities are located around campus. A tour guide will take their group around the education buildings, individual classrooms, student health center, library, computer lab, gym, cafeteria, dorms, and other facilities including the emergency stations. This will help you and all of the other new students get familiar with the layout and surroundings—this part will go a long way in easing the transition when you arrive for your first semester.
2. Watch Presentations
Presentations are another integral feature of all college orientation programs. These sessions cover a wide range of topics from major selection and style of lectures to campus policies, campus amenities, and safety protocols.
Keep a notebook and pen handy and make notes during these presentations. There’s a lot of information to take in within a short span of time and you’re likely to forget important details without notes.
Also, write down any questions that come up during the presentation. Most presentations are followed by a Q&A session. Don’t be afraid to speak up and ask for any clarifications you need. Chances are, many other students would also like to get that same question answered.
3. Get Your School ID
At some time during the orientation, you will be asked to go to a specific location to get your college ID photograph taken. As a college student, you’ll need an ID for almost everything, from registering for classes and getting into your residence to borrowing a book from the library, paying your college bills, and getting a meal at the dining hall. You may even get discounts at several stores if you have a student ID.
4. Discuss Financial Aid
Financial aid is one of the biggest concerns for most future college students and their parents. Colleges understand this and will make sure to schedule time to cover this topic on orientation day.
Staff associated with the financial aid office will first outline the various types of financial aid the school offers and the minimum eligibility criteria. This will usually be followed by a question-and-answer session. You can also schedule a one-on-one chat if you need more detailed information.
Before setting out for the college orientation, it’s a good idea to take time and read through the financial aid package the school would have sent you with the acceptance letter. Also, make a list of questions that you have regarding any aspect of the financial aid package. This will help you get the most from the financial aid presentation and question and answer session on that day.
5. Take Placement Tests
Some colleges use the freshman orientation as an opportunity to test your abilities in certain subjects. Common tests include math and various foreign languages. Your grade on these tests will help the school determine what level you are at in the subject. If you score low on the Spanish exam, for example, you may be required to start at Beginner Spanish 1. However, if you score higher, you may be able to start at Intermediate Spanish 1.
These tests aren’t always required, and sometimes colleges will let you complete them at home in your own time. Be sure to read up on your college’s orientation requirements regarding placement tests.
6. Meet Your Professors
For many students, the chance to meet their future professors is the highlight of orientation day. These are the mentors who will play a big role in shaping your future prospects. After all, most of the time in college is going to be spent in class attending lectures. If you’ve already chosen your major, take this opportunity to introduce yourself to your professors.
7. Create Your Class Schedule
Orientation is almost always the time the college uses to help freshmen choose their first-semester schedule. They will explain the courses that are mandatory in your first year, and also help you start to have a plan in mind regarding your GE requirements and intended major. Most colleges require you to take Rhetoric, for example, in your first year, but if you took AP English and Speech in high school, you might be able to skip those courses.
There will be an academic advisor present on orientation day to help students pick classes they need to get started, whether it’s for their major or in general education. If you’re not sure about which classes to take, don’t hesitate to ask an academic advisor. They’ll be happy to help you get your classes all lined up so when the semester starts, you’re ready to go.
8. Mingle and Make Friends
Almost everyone attending orientation day is filled with a mix of trepidation and excitement. They’re excited at the thought of college, new friends, and the promise of freedom. But there’s also that ‘what if’ at the back of everyone’s mind.
Don’t let your nervousness or anxiety stop you. Remember, everyone is likely as nervous as you. Introduce yourself to the others attending the orientation. Exchange stories. Ask them about the courses they’re taking, what clubs they’re interested in joining, or what made them choose that particular school.
Not only will you get a different perspective from other students, but you may just find someone you get along very well with. You may even find your future dorm mate!
Parents May or May Be Able to Attend Orientation at the College
In recent years, colleges have opened orientation day to parents, offering tailored sessions alongside students. These sessions cover school policies, safety measures, departmental responsibilities, and tuition details. Although formats vary, they typically include campus tours and separate presentations for parents and students. These sessions provide crucial information, especially for parents new to the college experience.
Now you are ready!
Freshman orientation is all about gearing up for your first semester at college and beyond. It’s not just about the next few days—it’s about getting ready for your whole time in college, where you might even make lifelong friends. Don’t forget to check the orientation schedule, especially if your college has overnight events. You’ll want to make sure you have all the paperwork and things you need to be comfortable.
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