What Is College Orientation, and How Can Students Prepare?

Incoming freshmen have a lot to think about: What classes they want to sign up for. What items they need to take with them as they move in. Finding financial aid options to help fund their first year. The list may seem to go on. However, college orientation is meant to ease the transition, giving people a better understanding of what campus life is like. 

Whether this is your first time stepping onto the college campus or you’ve taken several tours and feel ready to go, college orientation is a chance for you to take the final steps necessary to begin your education. 

Feeling a bit overwhelmed or uncertain of what to expect about your upcoming college orientation? Here’s what students need to know before attending.

What Happens At College Orientation?

College orientation is an introductory program designed to help new students transition into college life. It typically takes place before the academic year begins and can last from a day to several days. The primary goal is to familiarize students with their new environment, provide them with essential information, and set the stage for a successful college experience.

As a new student, you’ll most likely be required to attend college orientation. You can expect a full day—or a few days—of introductions, tours, class scheduling, information meetings, and more. Ultimately, this is your opportunity to ask questions, see where the buildings you’ll frequent are located, and maybe even meet some of your fellow students. 

Want more information on what this day will look like? Some key activities might include:

Campus Tours

Introduces students to important locations such as classrooms, libraries, dormitories, dining halls, and student centers. You’ll most likely be put into a group and a staff member or orientation leader will take you around the various buildings and dorms where you’ll attend class, eat, and hang out with friends. This is especially helpful if you already know what types of classes you’ll take. 

Academic Advising

Offers you guidance on course selection, degree requirements, and study expectations. They can also answer any questions you might have about your program or about the university in general.

Workshops and Sessions

While this isn’t always the case, you’ll generally get to attend workshops either with your guardian or alone. These sessions will cover topics like time management, financial aid, campus safety, and mental health resources so you’re well-versed in what the school offers before beginning the academic year.

Social Activities

Whether it’s an ice cream social, breakout groups, or simply a chance to chat with the people around you, you’ll get to participate in social activities during college orientation. This provides you opportunities to meet fellow students, make new friends, and get involved in campus life.

Meeting Faculty and Staff

On top of seeing the campus, you’ll also meet various people you’ll interact with weekly once the school year starts. This includes professors, academic advisors, and administrative staff who will help guide you during college. Ask them questions, get to know a bit about them, and learn more about what their experiences have been like while at the university. First impressions matter, so use this to your advantage and start your relationships off on the right foot. 

College Orientation Prep: What Students Need To Know

So you know what the day entails; what else is there to do before you attend college orientation? Here’s a quick list of action steps and best practices to keep in mind as you prepare:

Review Orientation Materials

Don’t feel like you must have every packet and resource memorized beforehand. But, look through the materials so you know what to bring and what the schedule is. This will help you feel more prepared and less nervous.

Make a List of Questions

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions once you start class. However, it doesn’t hurt to get answers to any burning queries during orientation. 

Some helpful questions to ask faculty, advisors, and current students include:

• What can I expect out of this program?

• What requirements are needed to graduate?

• Is there a capstone project?

• Where can I get help on campus for my physical and mental health?

• What do I need to know about financial aid?

• How many classes should I take to graduate in four years?

• Where are the best places to eat on or near campus?

• Do you have any tips for moving in?

• What clubs and activities are fun to join?

Prepare Necessary Documents

Each university’s orientation requires different items. However, be safe and bring a few essentials:

• Government-issued photo ID

• Admissions documents 

• College forms

• Financial aid details

• Writing materials to take notes

Pack Comfortable Walking Shoes and Clothing

You’ll be walking around campus and standing quite a bit during the orientation program. Stay comfortable by wearing good walking shoes and clothing that won’t feel confining. This will help you stay focused on your orientation leader rather than on sore feet. 

Familiarize Yourself With Campus

You’ll be going on a campus tour and learning where everything is, but it does help to look at a map beforehand to get your bearings. You most likely won’t have to walk around on your own, so don’t be fearful of getting lost. However, knowing where you’re supposed to park and meet at the beginning of the day can save you some stress on the day of orientation. 

Be Open and Engaged

There’s no award for prospective students who talk the most or ask the right number of questions. However, you’ll have the best orientation experience by staying engaged during sessions and being open to having conversations with other new students. 

Get Rest and Stay Hydrated

Lastly, make sure you get a great night’s sleep the night before your session and drink lots of water so you can be alert and energized for the day ahead. Keep a water bottle with you throughout the day and don’t be afraid to pause at any drinking fountains in between sessions. 

Student Life At MCPHS

Yes, college orientation is about getting new students ready for their first day of class. However, it’s also a great lead-in for community building and making life-long connections with other learners. At Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS), we know a flourishing student life leads to a thriving school. That’s why we prioritize not just academics but events and community building as well. 

Student life at MCPHS is thriving and constantly evolving as new student groups step foot onto campus. From intramural sports and special events to clubs and activities, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re an international student, starting freshmen, or in a continuing education program.

Learn about what it’s like to be a student at MCPHS by applying and starting your college education journey today.