Schools throughout the US hold orientation sessions at the beginning of each academic year. New students are often required to attend these sessions. When participation is not mandatory, students should plan to attend anyway, as they offer an excellent opportunity to meet other new students, prepare for classes and become familiar with the campus and its resources.
Orientation programs vary widely. They may be one day or one week in length. Although their content can differ significantly, some common activities include:
· a tour of the campus
· a tour of the community
· an introduction to support services, including counseling, health services, religious services and academic advisors
· study skills workshops
· a meeting with an academic advisor for course planning
· course registration
· programs that match new students with older students who can offer support and advice
· social activities - parties, barbeqeues, concerts
Orientation is an excellent opportunity for students to seek the support services they may need during the year; it is a shortcut. Part of the difficulty of being a first-year student is not knowing all the answers - and sometimes not even knowing what questions you should be asking. Some of it might be lame, sure - but hey, you've got to start somewhere. Students should also take the time to explore the campus and learn where their classrooms are, before classes begin. Students who prepare ahead of time and know where they are going and how long it will take to get there will find the first few days less
