Frequently Asked Questions about Orientation:

What is Orientation?

As a first-year student, you will be welcomed to campus with a fun and informative four-day program of getting-to-know-you activities, academic preparedness programs, class unity events, awareness building educational workshops, and introductions to campus and student services. Well-trained senior, junior and sophomore student leaders including: Orientation Leaders, Resident Advisors, Peer Counselors, Peer Mentors, International Peer Counselors, LAF Executive Committee members and Landis Center Staff, will assist you with your transition to College during the Orientation period and beyond.

Is Orientation required for all students?

Yes, Orientation is required for all first-year students.  You will be making important contacts throughout your first four days on campus, so it is important that you attend all sessions.

Will I be with my parents during Orientation?

The first day of Orientation is when you will be moving into your residence hall.  Your parents will be with you the entire morning to help you get settled.  After lunch a separate program will be presented to parents, while you will be getting acquainted with your residence hall at a floor meeting.  After this meeting, there will be a family farewell time, where you will have an opportunity to say good bye to your parents before starting the rest of Orientation.  Then you will have your class picture and meet your Orientation leader and group at the Orientation Kick-off!  

What should I bring?

When you arrive for Orientation, you will be moving in to your assigned room for the year.  For a list of what to bring and what to leave home, visit the Residence Life webpage.  Everything that you need for Orientation will be provided to you.

How will I know where to go when I get here?
           
When you first arrive on campus, you will go directly to your assigned residence hall… don’t worry, there will be plenty of signs and people walking around to point you in the right direction!  As you check into your hall, you will also receive information about Orientation, including the schedule and your Orientation group assignment.

How & When do I eat?

All Orientation meals are provided and you will be eating with your Orientation group.  The meals are split up so that every student has the opportunity to experience each of our Dining Halls.  On the first day of class, your meal plan will begin and you may choose to eat at any of our dining facilities. 

Who are the Orientation Leaders?

Orientation Leaders are upperclass students who have been selected for their knowledge of campus, enthusiasm, and love of Lafayette!  They will be your guides for the four days of Orientation, attending all sessions with you and answering any questions you may have about life on campus. 

Who are the other members of my Orientation group?

Your orientation group is made up of students who live in the same area of campus as you.  You will get the opportunity to meet students from several of the surrounding residence halls.

Will I meet any faculty or upperclass students during Orientation?

Yes!  During Orientation you will meet your faculty advisor, attend faculty discussion sessions, and participate in Convocation (a ceremony officially marking the beginning of the academic year).  You will also interact with many student leaders.  In addition to the OL’s, many student groups are present on campus to assist with your transition to college life, including the Resident Advisors (RAs), Lafayette Activities Forum (LAF), Peer Counselors, Peer Mentors and International Peer Advisors.  You will have an opportunity to interact with each of these groups both in sessions and during social events.