What to Expect at Freshman Orientation

If you're one of the thousands of students headed off to college this fall, you may have already had or anticipating your freshman orientation session. Some colleges hold an orientation session in the summer; others may have them before fall classes begin, or they have both kinds of sessions. Orientation may seem overwhelming but it's actually one of the best times of your college life.

Here's some of what you may do during your orientation:

Campus tour: You will be able to see the academic buildings, residence halls, and dining facilities. You may not to go inside every building, but usually, your student guide will have something to say about each of them; such as what kinds of classes are held in what buildings. While in residence halls, you'll usually get to see a model room (put together for tours only) or an actual student's room.

Visit the bookstore: Some bookstores may have discounts for open house or orientation day. Take advantage of the discounts and start stocking up on your college paraphernalia. In the fall, make sure to get there early enough to start buying your books. If you don't know where to find what you are looking for, the staff will be readily available to help you. Bookstores may even be like a mini mall; selling pain medicine, shower supplies, and other dorm room necessities.

Icebreakers: When you are in a group with your orientation leader (usually an older student), you will be able to do different activities to get to know your fellow freshmen. These may be something like asking a question from an index card or throwing a ball around the room to say your name and one interesting fact about yourself. No matter what you are doing, participate actively. This is a great opportunity to make new friends.

Presentations: You will probably have the option or be required to go to several presentations during your orientation. They can be about any topic facing students today, such as the dangers of binge drinking or time management during college. You should attend at least one presentation that isn't required of you along with the other mandatory ones.

Activities fair: A lot of the clubs and organizations at your new school will hold an activities fair. You can sign up for organizations and ask current members about the group's mission and what kinds of people are in the group Some organizations' tables will even hand out freebies such as candy or little toys. Make sure to visit as many tables as possible. It's OK if you later decide an organization isn't right for you.

Eat in a dining hall: Aside from lunch or dinner always being the best part of a day like this, you'll get to sample what kinds of food you'll be eating throughout the next four years. You'll also learn about how different food places are laid out which will help you navigate easier when you're actually a student. Besides, on orientation, you will probably get one or more meals for free. Who would turn down free food?

Now that you know what you may be doing during orientation, here are some tips to help it go successfully.

Ask questions. Your orientation leader, upperclassmen, and college staff members are always eager to help new students. If you don't understand something, don't be afraid to speak up. If the first person you meet can't answer your question, ask if they can refer you to someone who is able to help.

Explore on your own. Try to go to places the tour guide did not show you. Take a look at the inside of some of the buildings you didn't get in to. See if you can sit in on a class in your major. Explore the computer labs in the library. Check out the off campus shopping and restaurant options. There is no limit to what you can do once you're on your own and you will be able to get a better feel for your new home.

Talk to others in your orientation group. It doesn't matter if you don't become best friends with everyone. Just turn to the person next to you and start basic conversation about where they're from, what they want to major in, or what they thought of the last presentation. These people may end up living on the same floor as you or sitting next to you in a class; which guarantees that you will know someone during those first few days.

Have fun. While you should be getting to know your new surroundings as much as possible, most schools will offer a variety of fun activities as well. Go to a games night, see a movie, or go to a welcome dance. This will help you to relax and enjoy the days before your classes begin. You can even take one of your orientation friends along.

Freshman orientation is a great way to get adjusted to the school you'll also be calling home. It is also a great place to make new friends and explore the surrounding community. Use your time during this period wisely and your adjustment to college will be at least a little easier.