A group of spirited students at orientation, holding an Oakland University banner

New Student Orientation Agenda

During New Student Orientation, you and your guests will get an in-depth look at Oakland University’s student resources and support services. Students will meet with their academic adviser, register for classes, and engage with faculty, staff, and fellow new students. Throughout the day, students and their guests will participate in both shared sessions and separate breakout sessions designed to address the unique questions and needs of each group.

Orientation runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please plan to arrive early for check-in and note that participation in the full session is required.

Lunch will be provided for the student and up to two guests. This event is intended for guests ages 16 and older.

New Student Track

Note for students: Students must remain for the entire orientation program. Leaving early will result in a hold on your student account, requiring you to reschedule Orientation before you can register for classes. Once all registration requirements are completed, students are free to leave campus.

Check-In	Please note that check-in will conclude at 9:30 a.m.
Grizzly Celebration and Resource Fair	Meet the campus offices here to support your OU journey, all in one place! Please note, this will be the only time during today’s Orientation when you can connect directly with the offices listed below, ask questions, and explore additional resources.
Welcome	Mae Dennis, Assistant Director of Orientation and New Student Programs
Remarks from University Leadership	Hear from University Leadership and learn how OU is committed to your success!
You Belong Here	Join the Dean of Students for an important conversation on how OU supports your well-being and success. This session covers essential topics - including campus safety, mental health resources, and Title IX - so you know where to turn and how to stay supported throughout your time at OU.
Paying for College	Learn the essentials of financing your OU education. This session breaks down financial aid, scholarships, billing, and payment options to help you understand costs and stay on track throughout the year.
Small Group Time with OGL	Connect with your Orientation Group Leader and peers for guided activities and conversations.
School/College Breakout Session	Students will meet with the academic units to learn more about their major, expectations, and opportunities.
Breakout Session Options	Students will choose one of the following breakout sessions. Options include: Honors College: Learn about Honors curriculum, opportunities, and expectations. First-Gen: Connect with resources and programs designed to support first-gen student success. Housing: Explore on-campus living, community expectations, and key housing information. Commuter: Get tips, resources, and strategies for navigating campus life as a commuter student.
Lunch with Group and Faculty	Students will share a meal with their small group and a faculty member while diving into helpful topics that support their transition to college.
First Year Adviser Meet & Greet	Students will connect with advisers from the First Year Advising Center to learn about academic support, course planning, and how to schedule appointments throughout the year.
Class Registration	Students will work with their advisers to register for courses for the upcoming year. Once students have completed all registration requirements, they are free to head to check-out and the optional portions of the day.
Orientation Check-Out	Stop by our check-out station to ensure you have completed all the required steps to becoming a Golden Grizzly and pick up your free swag!
Optional Wrap-Up Opportunities with your Student:	Housing Tours from (Last tour departs at 4:15) Mini Campus Tours (Last tour departs at 4:15) Recreation and Wellbeing Tours (Last tour departs at 4:15) Campus Support Offices open until 5 p.m.

Parent and Supporter Track

Note for Parents & Supporters: Students will attend concurrent sessions on their own for most of the program, and supporters will not accompany them during this portion of the day. You will reconnect with your student after they complete registration.

Check-in:	Please note that check-in will conclude at 9:30 a.m.
Grizzly Celebration and Resource Fair	Meet the campus offices and services here to support your student’s OU journey, all in one place! Please note, this will be the only time during today’s Orientation when you can connect directly with the offices listed below, ask questions, and explore additional resources.
Welcome	Mae Dennis, Assistant Director of Orientation and New Student Programs
Remarks from University Leadership	Hear from University Leadership and learn how OU is committed to your success!
You Belong Here	Join the Dean of Students for an important conversation on how OU supports your student’s well-being and success. This session covers essential topics - including campus safety, mental health resources, and Title IX - so your student knows where to turn and how to stay supported throughout their time at OU.
Paying for College	Learn the essentials of financing your student’s OU education. This session breaks down financial aid, scholarships, billing, and payment options to help you and your student understand costs and stay on track throughout the year.
School/College Breakout Session	Parents and Supporters will meet with academic units of their choosing to learn more about their student’s major, expectations, and opportunities.
Small Group Time with OGL	Connect with your Orientation Group Leader and peers for guided activities and conversations.
Lunch
Campus Tour or Work Lounge	Parents and Supporters may choose between a guided tour of campus or time in the Work Lounge to relax or get things done.
Advising & FYAC Introduction	An overview of academic advising and the First Year Advising Center, helping Parents and Supporters understand how to access academic support throughout the year.
Student Supports Presentation	Learn about key campus resources that support your student’s success, wellness, and overall experience
Most Asked Questions	A session to hear answers to the most common questions Parents and Supporters ask about starting at OU.
Optional Presentations:	Housing: Explore on-campus living, community expectations, and key housing information. Commuter: Get tips, resources, and strategies for navigating campus life as a commuter student. Career and Life Design: Learn how OU is supporting your students future career aspirations.
Optional Wrap-Up Opportunities with your Student:	Housing Tours from (Last tour departs at 4:15) Mini Campus Tours (Last tour departs at 4:15) Recreation and Wellbeing Tours (Last tour departs at 4:15) Campus Support Offices open until 5 p.m.

Orientation & New Student Programs

North Foundation Hall, Room 101
318 Meadow Brook Road
Rochester, MI 48309-4454
(location map)
(248) 370-4653
[email protected]
Office Hours:
Mon-Fri: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.