The Requisite Guide to Owning Orientation
Here’s everything you and your family need to know to start your SHU college experience on the right foot
Key Highlights
- Everything you need to know about Sacred Heart University orientation—dates, schedule, and what to expect as a new SHU student
- Key tips for incoming freshmen and families—what to bring, what to wear, and how to prepare for a successful college start
- Important orientation details and requirements—mandatory attendance, parent sessions, travel info, and the new student checklist
Welcome Pioneers! As your transition into college life is just beginning, there is no event more crucial to ensuring you feel confident come move-in day than orientation.
“Orientation is meant to be an exciting time and the start of a new chapter,” said Tori Vacca, associate director of first-year programs at SHU. “You will receive a lot of information that day and meet a lot of new people, but the main thing to remember is that we are all here to support you in your transition to becoming Pios!”
Follow along for the best tips to ensure your orientation is a success!
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Is Orientation mandatory?
Yes! Orientation is a required event for all incoming undergraduate commuter and residential students. The dates for this year’s orientation sessions are June 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, and 10. As for the group you’ll be in, your orientation leader will reach out by text or email on the day before your visit with further information.
What is the schedule of events?
For all of SHU’s orientation days, check-in begins at 8 a.m. Following check-in, you will be assigned to your orientation group and have a chance to meet your future peers, classmates, and friends. Soon after that, you will attend various sessions centered around your first year at SHU, team building, and life as a Pio. After a lunch break, it’s back to your group to attend informational sessions that will focus on the fall academic schedule. To end your day, you can pop by one of the optional sessions being offered around campus such as performing arts or Division I athletic meetings or take a tour of one of the open residential halls. These will be listed in the orientation schedule, which you will receive on campus during the day of your session.
My parents are coming. What should they expect?
Parents of our future Pioneers have their own orientation that runs during the students’ sessions. Parent sessions focus on topics that include student services, student billing, financial assistance, academic support, residential life, commuter life, and much more.
What should I do if I’m traveling more than three hours to get to SHU?
SHU does not provide on-campus housing for orientation sessions. However, we have a list of recommended accommodations that you can contact directly.
What should I wear?
Throughout the day, parents and students will be on the move from session to session, so dress casually and be sure to wear comfortable sneakers!
Is there anything else I should know before my orientation?
Yes, be sure to consult our new student checklist. This list provides a comprehensive guide to everything you must do before you begin your college journey. This includes activating your SHU email account, uploading a photo for your SHU ID, and lots of other information that will get you ready to become a Pioneer! Should you have any further questions about your checklist, you can ask your orientation leaders. They are your guide to making sure you’re prepared to start your college experience.
Any questions?
Do not hesitate to reach out. You can email student life or call 203-371-7846.