If you’re an incoming freshman or transfer student, then you know you have to endure a few days of seemingly pointless icebreakers and activities, campus tours and class registration, as well as shove countless school facts and resource information into the back of your mind (where it will most likely stay). However, freshman and transfer student orientation does have its benefits: a chance to meet new friends, ask questions about your new school, see the sights and experience your first taste of college (or of a new college).
“Orientation is a crucial part of the college experience,” said HC contributing writer Gennifer Delman, a Welcome Week Coordinator for Hofstra University. “It truly helps bridge the gap between high school and college before your first day.”
How to make the most of: Orientation activities
Your Dorm Stay – “Try to take notice of the dorm room you spent the night in during orientation,” said Jessica Stringer, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill recent grad. “Sure, you'll probably be able to look up your exact dorm room dimensions on the housing website but actually being in a room similar in size to yours will be a reality check when it comes to packing.”
During my Orientation at Colorado State, I happened to stay in the same dormitory that I lived in freshman year, so I got to see exactly what my room would be like. I also experienced the food they serve there, although I remember it being a lot tastier during Orientation than it ever was again, so be prepared for things to go downhill a little bit.
Campus Tours– “One of the best things about orientation is that you get to observe the campus before you're a full-time student,” said Gen. “Keep note of where your class buildings are so you can wow your professors on your first day by being on time! Walk around campus and familiarize yourself with where everything is. Browse the bookstore, hit the gym, or visit the computer lab. There are likely summer sessions going on and you may make a friend along the way!”
{Take advantage of Orientation to get an idea of what your classes will be like! Ask your leader about class structures and sizes if you aren’t sure.}
Mock Classes– “Hofstra has a ‘mock class’ during Orientation where you discuss a relevant text,” says Gen. “This gives you a good idea of how our classes are structured and demonstrates what's expected of you. So read it and get involved! You'll make a great first impression and who knows, you might have that professor in the fall!”
Resource/Involvement Fairs– L.J. Ankarlo, Colorado State ‘11 and a Preview Late Night Coordinator (L.J. helps with late-night activities at CSU’s Freshman Orientation), says to take advantage of fairs to find out what services and activities are available on your campus. “This will give you a glimpse of what activities will be offered and what programs/groups you can become a part of,” she said. “You should take your time while going through the fairs and think about what you might want to get involved in once school starts. It is easy to get overwhelmed sometimes with everything that is offered, but know that you can take your time to decide and you don't have to sign up for everything at the very beginning.”
Registration– L.J. suggests taking advantage of your advisor when registering for your first classes. “Make sure that you take your time choosing classes and your schedule. I was one of the last ones left in the room when I registered for my classes and it was worth it because I got to know my advisor really well and she gave me specific suggestions on my schedule.”
Group Activities/Seminars, etc. – “If there is a mandatory event for orientation, go! If there's an event that's not, go!” said Jessica. “Take advantage of the opportunities to learn about college life, your new computer, Greek life, whatever. Trust me, when you're a little lost that first day of school, you'll be glad you took advantage of orientation.”
