Parents/Guardians
We know how essential you are to your student's success in college as a family member or supporter.
We offer a separate, optional Parent/Guardian Orientation that runs simultaneously to the Student Orientation to help you learn more about SHU and your student's transition. While Parent/Guardian Orientation is optional, Student Orientation is required for all new students. We have planned a variety of sessions and events to support your student’s transition; requests to leave early will not be accepted, so please plan accordingly. There will be many sessions on topics such as:
- Financial Assistance & Student Billing
- Health Services
- Residential Life & Commuter Life
- Academic Support Services and much more!
You will have the opportunity to meet and speak with many of the faculty and staff members at SHU.
Registering for Orientation
If you are interested in attending Parent/Guardian Orientation, your student will be able to register a maximum of two guests in their Orientation reservation. The cost for a parent/guardian is $25, which includes admittance to meals, sessions and events and bag including an informational packet.
New Student Checklist
To help students and their families stay organized, we have developed a New Student Checklist to ensure the completion of everything required before, during and after Orientation. Students will not be able to access their New Student Checklist until they have activated their SHU email account.
Use the checklist as conversation starters with your student on the items they need to complete. It is important that your student works these items individually but with your support. You can complete the Checklist together, but do not do the tasks for them!
Family Summer Newsletter Series
We understand there are questions and concerns before the semester begins. Family members can expect to receive two emails a month from May through August on services at SHU, updates and other transition topics. These emails will provide tips for families as well as updates but please note, all action items and reminders will be communicated only to the student.
FAQ's
Yes! All new commuter and residential students are required to participate in the entire Orientation program. This is a great opportunity for them to visit campus, obtain their SHU Card and meet other students and staff! Requests for students to leave early will not be accepted, so please plan accordingly.
There is no charge for students to attend Orientation. There is a nominal fee for Parent/Guardian Orientation (if applicable). If you are interested in attending, your student will be able to register you in their Orientation reservation. The cost for a parent/guardian is $25, which includes admittance to meals, sessions and events and a bag including an informational packet.
Yes! We have designed a separate Orientation for parents/guardians that runs simultaneously to the Student Orientation. Each student is permitted to register a maximum of two guests to attend. If you are interested in attending, have your student register you through their Orientation reservation.
Orientation begins with check in at 8 a.m. The Parent/Guardian Orientation consists of different sessions will take place, followed by lunch and additional afternoon presentations designed to assist you in supporting your students transition to SHU. The day will conclude between 4-6 p.m. with our Services Fair which will include information from campus departments and residence hall tours.
While we cannot offer on-campus accommodations, we have compiled a list of local hotels. Contact the hotels directly for reservations and additional information. Check out the hotel listing page.
The dress is casual, so wear comfortable clothes. The bookstore will be open during Orientation, in case you want to do some shopping, too!
Please be aware the Student and Parent/Guardian Orientation are individual programs. They will both conclude between 4-6 p.m. with our Services Fair.
Important Dates
For other important dates, view the Academic Calendar.
We look forward to seeing you at Orientation. If you have any questions, feel free to email us at orientation@sacredheart.edu or call Student Life at 203-371-7846.