Lecture One: Orientation Pre-Class: What do you think you will learn at a college orientation session? All information is the property of Eduardo Lopez, Jr., M.S.Ed and David J. Napiorski, M.S.Ed

What you will learn… The purpose of orientation. What to expect during orientation. Do’s and Don’ts during this process. Essential phone numbers for the first five weeks of your college life.

Why you are here…(purpose) Orientation is designed to give you essential information that you will need to ensure a successful transition from day zero (arrival) to day one (class).

How it feels and looks (expectations) Orientation is designed to give you a lot of information in a short amount of time. Information topics can include the following (partial list): –Safe Sex - Psychological / Health Services –Campus Police - University Clubs / Orgs. –Residential Life Policies - Religious Life –Internet / Downloading Policies - Alcohol

How it feels and looks (expectations) Pt.2 Most orientations run about one to three days. A list of events and times (some mandatory and some optional) will be given to you. –Tip: Don’t toss this list in the garbage! You will move on a timed schedule (think of it like going from class to class).

How it feels and looks (expectations) It will be crowded and somewhat chaotic. Most universities will have “orientation guides” to escort/direct you to the next event. These guides will either have a bright color shirt or a big sign! You can’t miss them.

Do’s and Don’ts Do: Keep the orientation event sheet! Do: Say hello to a fellow student you might not know! Do: Write some important notes from the orientation events - names/numbers/places Do: Keep a bottle of water and gum! (helps you stay awake). Do: Keep a campus map in your pocket/purse.

Do’s and Don’ts - Pt.2 Don’t: Lose the orientation schedule sheet! Don’t: Get drunk, do drugs, or have a late night before or during orientation. Don’t: Skip any mandatory orientation events. Don’t: Skip these optional sessions (some schools might have these sessions as optional): Police safety, Alcohol policy, Academic Dishonesty, Internet policy, Sexual Violence and Abuse Don’t: Get lost!

Essential phone numbers! 1.University Registrar Office 2.University Financial Aid Office 3.Health/Psych Services 4.Your Roommate! 5.Campus Security 6.University Shuttle

Final thoughts Orientation is supposed to be a time to introduce yourself to the university as a new student. Believe it or not, it will help set your academic and social tone. Accountability and Responsibility pick up from high school graduation begin once orientation is over. Have fun!