Why University Orientations Are Worth Your Time

Starting university can be a daunting experience, and new student orientation is designed to make the transition smoother. Orientation is a chance to get to know your new campus, meet your peers and staff, and learn about the academic and social life at your university. While some universities require students to attend orientation, others make it optional. However, orientation is considered a valuable opportunity to get introduced to your academic department and the resources available to you on campus. It's also a great time to sign up for classes and meet with an advisor to discuss your academic goals and class choices. So, if you're wondering whether to attend new student orientation, it's definitely worth considering as it can help you start your university journey on the right foot.

Meeting people and making friends

University 'Buddy' Schemes

Some universities have 'buddy' schemes, where current students volunteer to mentor new students. This is a great way to be introduced to university life and meet people who can show you the ropes. In some cases, you might be matched with a 'buddy' before you arrive on campus, giving you a familiar face to meet on your first day.

Online Forums and Social Media

Before you arrive, search for your university's official page on social media platforms like Facebook, as well as pages run by student groups, unions, and clubs. These online communities allow you to start getting to know your future classmates, seek reassurance, and find people with shared interests. You might even be able to arrange to meet up once term starts.

Orientation Program

The orientation program itself is a prime opportunity to meet people. It usually includes a campus tour, information sessions, and group activities. Participating in these activities will help you get to know your peers and feel more comfortable in your new environment. Be open to introducing yourself and starting conversations with others. Remember, everyone is in the same boat and likely just as eager to make friends.

Campus Events

Once you're on campus, attend campus events such as concerts, themed dances, socials, and speaker events. These events provide an automatic talking point and cater to different comfort levels. They are great places to meet people with similar interests. Keep an eye out for posters advertising events, and don't be afraid to attend alone and introduce yourself to others.

Campus Organisations and Clubs

Joining campus organisations and clubs is an excellent way to make friends as they provide regular opportunities to interact with the same people. Look for clubs related to your interests, whether it's a sport, social cause, hobby, or career aspiration. Be mindful of choosing clubs that allow for conversation and getting to know each other, as more structured clubs may leave less room for socialising.

Your Classes and Dorms

Your classes and dorms are also great places to meet people. Classes with group projects or labs provide more opportunities to talk and form connections. Living in a dorm means you'll be surrounded by potential friends, whether it's bonding over shared adversity or spontaneous social interactions in common areas.

Be Proactive and Vulnerable

Making friends requires intention and vulnerability. Be proactive in seeking out social opportunities and initiating conversations. Suggest one-on-one hangouts, like coffee or a casual lunch, to get to know people better. Be open to sharing your true thoughts and feelings, as this vulnerability is key to deepening friendships.

Remember, everyone is in a similar situation, and most people feel at least a little nervous and awkward when starting university. By taking advantage of orientation and putting yourself out there, you'll be well on your way to building a fulfilling social life at university.

Choosing your class schedule

Know your preferences

Think about whether you are a morning or afternoon person. This will help you determine the optimal times for your classes. If you are an early bird, sign up for a.m. classes, and if you are more productive in the evenings, grab those afternoon and evening slots.

Location, location, location

Check where on campus your classes are held. You don't want to be rushing from one side of the campus to the other, so try to choose classes that are close together.

Course content and professors

Look at the course catalog and balance your choices. Avoid taking all difficult classes in one semester. Research the professors and the course content to get a sense of which classes and instructors are valuable and which to avoid. Ask your peers about their experiences, and seek feedback from others. You can also check reviews on websites like Rate My Professors.

General education requirements

In your first and second years, you will likely be taking mostly general education classes. These give you a well-rounded educational experience, offering a variety of subjects and disciplines. Taking these courses first can help you decide on your major. Even if you already have a sense of the program you want to pursue, you may change your mind once you take a class on a new subject.

Be realistic and plan ahead

Be realistic about your schedule and your abilities. Make sure you have time for other activities outside of class and don't overload yourself. Plan out your semester in advance and register early to secure your preferred classes. Have backup options in case your first choices fill up.

Understanding the importance of orientation

Orientation is an important part of the transition to university life. It is designed to help new students feel more comfortable and confident as they embark on their academic journey. The orientation process can vary depending on the university, but it typically involves a combination of informational sessions, campus tours, and social activities. While some universities make orientation optional, others require it for all incoming students.

Benefits of Orientation

Orientation offers numerous benefits that can enhance a student's overall university experience. Firstly, it provides an opportunity for students to become familiar with the campus and its facilities. This includes locating classrooms, libraries, support services, and social spaces. By doing so, students can navigate their new environment more confidently and reduce the stress associated with starting university.

Secondly, orientation allows students to meet and interact with their peers, faculty members, and staff. This social aspect is crucial for building a sense of community and belonging within the university. It also enables students to form friendships and establish valuable connections that can provide support throughout their academic journey.

Academic Planning

During orientation, students receive guidance on academic planning and course selection. They meet with academic advisors who help them choose classes that align with their interests and major requirements. This ensures that students start their academic journey on the right track and with a clear understanding of their degree program.

Important Information and Resources

Orientation also serves as a platform for students to gain access to important information and resources. This includes details about financial aid, billing processes, campus safety, and student support services. By attending orientation, students can learn about the various resources available to them and how to navigate administrative processes, which can contribute to their overall success at the university.

Transition to University Life

The transition to university life can be overwhelming, and orientation helps to smoothen this process. It provides a structured framework that assists students in understanding the expectations and demands of university life. Additionally, orientation often includes social activities and workshops that address the social and emotional aspects of this transition, ensuring that students feel supported and prepared for the challenges ahead.

What to wear to orientation

So, you're wondering what to wear to your university orientation? It's an important question, as you'll want to feel confident and comfortable during orientation, especially if it's spread over several days. Here are some tips to help you decide:

Dress for the Weather

Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately. If it's hot, opt for light clothing like shorts, a tank top, and sandals. If it's chilly, go for jeans or leggings with a sweater or jacket. Layers are a good idea, as you'll likely be moving between indoor and outdoor spaces, and some lecture halls can be cold.

Comfort is Key

Orientation involves a lot of walking and moving around campus, so wear comfortable shoes. You'll also likely be sitting on the ground at some point, so keep that in mind when choosing your outfit. Avoid anything too tight or restrictive.

Show Your Style

While you want to be comfortable, you can still look cute and show off your personality and unique style. If you're feeling nervous about what to wear, a simple outfit of shorts, sandals, and a cute top is a safe bet. You can also add accessories like unique jewellery, a trendy headband, or cool shoes to elevate your look.

Be Prepared for Photos

You'll likely be taking your student ID photo during orientation, so you may want to choose an outfit you feel good about being photographed in.

Dress Appropriately

While you want to show your style, avoid anything too revealing or short that might become uncomfortable during a day of activities. It's also best to leave the collegiate-themed clothing and high school t-shirts at home.

Professionalism

If you're meeting with an advisor or faculty member, consider changing into something a bit more professional. This doesn't mean business attire, but perhaps something a little more formal, like swapping a crop top for a cardigan.

Overnight Essentials

If you're staying overnight in a dorm, don't forget to pack pajamas, a robe, and flip-flops for the shower. You never know who you might bump into, so choose something you feel good about being seen in.

Overall, the most important thing is to feel comfortable and confident. Orientation is all about starting your university journey on the right foot, so wear something that makes you feel excited and ready to take on this new chapter!

What to bring to orientation

University is an exciting time, and orientation is a great way to get a head start on your campus experience. It's also a good opportunity to meet people and get to know your way around. So, what should you bring? Here's a list of essentials to make your orientation experience a success:

Clothing and Comforts

Firstly, dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. It's likely to be warm, so wear something casual and light, but don't forget to bring a jacket or a sweater for those chilly lecture halls and air-conditioned rooms. If it's sunny, don't forget your sunglasses and sunscreen to protect yourself from the glare and the heat.

Stationery and Devices

You'll be getting a lot of information, so bring a notebook and a pen/pencil to jot down important details. You might also want to bring a folder to keep any handouts organised. If you're expecting to need access to your university systems, bring your tablet or laptop, and don't forget your phone and charger.

Identification and Documentation

Make sure you have your state/government ID with you, as you'll likely need it to get your student ID card. It's also worth checking with your university if there are any other documents you need to bring, such as your social security card.

Umbrella and Water Bottle

Be prepared for the elements with an umbrella, poncho, or raincoat, and stay hydrated with a refillable water bottle.

Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so a good pair of comfortable shoes is essential. You want to be able to walk and stand all day without blisters or sore feet.

Other Essentials

If you're staying overnight, bring your own pillow and an extra blanket for comfort. Don't forget your toiletries, and if you're particular about showering, bring flip-flops for the communal showers.

Optional Extras

You might also want to bring some snacks, and if you're driving, be sure to check the parking situation and costs.

So, with your bag packed and your questions prepared, you're all set for a great start to your university journey!

Frequently asked questions