The Orientation Week, or "Orientation" for short, is an important part of starting your studies in the USA. It helps you find your way around the campus, make new friends, and get used to your new surroundings. Since American universities offer a comprehensive program for new students, it is crucial that you make good use of this time to get off to a successful start in your college life.
American universities typically offer two different types of orientation events:
General Orientation: These events are for all new students. You will receive information about university-wide offerings, take campus tours, and get to know the most important contact points such as libraries, registrar's offices, and sports facilities.
International Orientation: These special sessions are for international students and help you adapt to life in the USA and on campus. Typical topics are visa and residence regulations, cultural differences, and academic customs. Here you will also meet other international students who are in a similar situation, which makes it easier to get started.
Our Recommendation:
Plan your arrival so that you are on site at least one day before the official Orientation. Most universities open their dorms (dorms) one day before the start of Orientation Week, so that you have enough time to settle in and prepare for the start.
There are some important things to keep in mind to get off to a good start in Orientation:
Timely Arrival: Since the dorms often open a day earlier, you should make sure that you arrive on time to avoid stress during your arrival.
Communication with your Coach: Find out from your coach if there is already a sport-specific program before the general Orientation. Some sports teams organize their own meetings and activities to welcome new team members.
Class Registration: Depending on the university, course registration may already take place before Orientation. If this is the case, you will receive the relevant information by email. In many cases, however, you will also receive support in registering for your courses during Orientation. Clarify in advance how this is handled at your university.
While the specific program points vary from university to university, the general schedule is similar:
Day 1: Arrival and Check-In
Picking up your Student ID Card
Moving into your dorm and getting to know your roommate
First orientation on campus (e.g. with a campus map or the university's app)
Day 2: Introduction to the University
Welcome by the international office and introduction to the main contact persons
Events to present the university's rules and behavior guidelines
Information on health and safety on campus
Day 3: Academic Orientation
Meetings with academic advisors and discussion of your study plan
Workshops on using the university's online platforms
If you have not yet registered for your courses, you will be supported here.
Day 4: Leisure and Cultural Program
Social events like BBQs, game nights or city tours
Networking opportunities with other new students
Cultural introduction to better understand life in the USA
Day 5: Closing Event
Grand welcome celebration for all new students
Joint events with older students to make contacts
Official introductory event for all new college students
Many universities require new students, especially international students, to attend the Orientation Week. You should therefore carefully read through all the dates and tasks that are sent to you in advance and arrive on time.
Typical preparatory tasks may include:
Pre-Arrival Tasks: Online forms to notify your arrival time, provide information about your accommodation and visa status.
Online Courses: Some universities offer pre-arrival online courses on topics such as academic integrity or intercultural competence that must be completed before arrival.
Health Insurance & Immunization Forms: Fill out all forms for health insurance and health care in advance, as this is a typical part of Orientation Week.
Use Orientation Week to clarify any outstanding questions. Here are some points you should definitely address:
Student ID Card: Make sure you get your student ID card. You will need this for access to most university facilities and for discounts on campus.
Course Registration: If you have not yet registered for your courses, schedule an appointment with an academic advisor to create your schedule.
Opening a Bank Account: Many universities offer on-site support in opening a US bank account. Find out during Orientation how this process works.
Communication with your Coach: Take the time to get to know your coach personally and to discuss when the first team meeting or practice will take place.
Orientation Week is also a good opportunity to make new friends and establish contacts. Here are some tips on how you can network better:
Participate in all social events: Even if you still feel unfamiliar at first, it is important that you actively participate in the events.
Use the Welcome Events: Events like BBQs, sports activities or city tours are ideal for getting to know other students.
Orientation Week is a valuable time to find your way around your new environment. Use this time to take care of all necessary administrative tasks, make contacts, and get used to the new routines. With good preparation and a positive attitude, you will lay the foundation for a successful study in the USA.
If you have any questions about Orientation or need support, the Smarthlete team is always there for you. We are happy to help you master your first steps at the university and ensure a successful start to your college life!