10 Ways to Make the Most of Your Orientation Experience

In August, you will have the opportunity to go through a parent orientation program. Here are some suggestions for making the most of this opportunity:

Prepare Questions. Think about what you really want to know, not just what you “should” find out. Want to know to whom your student can turn if he’s having learning difficulties? Ask the question. Interested in how students can apply their learning in practical settings? Ask about internships, jobs and co-op opportunities. Thinking ahead will help you determine what’s truly important to you and your student.

Listen and Take Notes. Jot some notes as various presenters present you with information. That way, you can read through them when you get home and clear your head. It’s easy to say, “I’ll remember that point or that contact info” yet the sheer volume of information you are offered during orientation makes remembering everything without notes very difficult.

Don’t be Shy. Sitting back and listening to presenters and panels makes good sense. However, if you have additional questions, don’t hesitate to ask. Whether it’s in a group setting or one-on-one after the presentation, your concerns deserve attention. And no question is a “dumb” one!

Get to Know Other Parents/ Family Members. Orientation is an excellent time to mix and mingle with others who are going through the same thing that you are: sending your student to college. Develop informal support structures and compare notes with other parents and family members.

Give Your Student Some Space. This is his first campus experience as a matriculated student so it’s important that he learn to navigate on his own. Give him space to meet people, to ask his own questions and to take charge of his college life. Starting off with a dose of self-responsibility during orientation will set a positive tone for the rest of his time on campus.

Tour the Campus. It may be hot and you may be tired. Yet nothing beats seeing something with your own eyes. So, if you have time, consider touring the campus. You’ll see the academic buildings, residence halls, community spaces and much more. Then, when your student starts talking about these places during the fall semester, you’ll be able to accurately picture her in her surroundings.

Keep Yourself Healthy. Orientation sessions often happen on some of the hottest days of the year. Drink water, stay cool and pace yourself.

Have Paperwork in Place. Work with your student to make sure that you’ve sent or are bringing all the required paperwork to campus for the semester's start. Go through a checklist ahead of time so that you both feel prepared to dive into orientation without worry!

Attend the Welcome Program.  The 2012 Welcome marks the beginning of your student's career at Lafayette. It will introduce you to the Orientation Leaders and your student's new home community. Plan ahead on where to meet your student before the ceremony – 600 students will be looking for their parents!

Join a Parent Association Committee. Lafayette offers volunteer committees for parents, so why not join? These groups do everything from evaluating programs and publications to assisting Admissions, Career Services, and the Parents Fund. Plus, they offer another connection to campus that can be invaluable when you have questions, concerns and ideas.

Orientation can be an exciting time for both you and your student.  Make the most of it!