INDIANA – Summer break gives teens an opportunity to rest, go on vacation, spend time with family and friends and earn extra money. But for soon-to-be college freshmen, it’s also a time to start thinking about moving onto campus in the fall. Many colleges and universities host orientation to introduce incoming students to campus life and traditions.
Orientation – which can last anywhere from one day to a week – occurs over the summer and often right before the start of classes.
Whether your teen is attending orientation or even taking a college tour as a prospective student, it’s important to ask questions. Talk with orientation leaders, current students, and staff members to learn about campus safety, career services, first-year experiences, academic resources, and available student organizations.
Consider some of the following questions:
- What kind of security methods are in place for entering residence halls and other sensitive areas?
- How does the school communicate with students in an emergency?
- How might the career services office help a freshman as compared with a senior?
- What is the student-to-adviser ratio?
- What first-year experiences are available on campus?
- What health insurance or health discount programs does the school’s health center accept?
- How can I drop or add a class?
- What are my financial aid and tuition payment options?
- Are all dining options covered in the campus cafeteria?
- What are the latest COVID-19 protocols?
