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New Student Summer Orientation

All new incoming students should participate in one of our three Summer Orientation programs, which are designed to help you feel confident, prepared and connected before classes begin.

During Summer Orientation, you will:

  • Meet other new students
  • Learn more about campus life and resources
  • Connect with faculty and staff
  • Start preparing for your first semester

FAQ

When are the Summer 2026 Orientation Dates?
  • Thursday & Friday, June 25 & 26 (overnight event)
  • Thursday & Friday, July 9 & 10 (overnight event)
  • Monday, July 20 (one-day event)
Do I have to attend?

Yes, New Student Summer Orientation is required for new, full-time first-year students. Our new, incoming Transfer students are also welcome and invited to attend.

Does it matter which session I attend?

All three sessions offer the same core content. Our two overnight programs provide a more immersive experience, while the single-day option is a condensed version designed for students and families with busy schedules or those who live nearby or are already familiar with the University.

What if I cannot attend any of the Orientation dates?

If you have a scheduling conflict or live far from campus, please contact the First-Year Experience (FYE) office at 724-836-7470 to discuss alternative options.

How do I sign up?

Once you’ve submitted your $100 tuition deposit, you’ll receive an email (starting in early May) with instructions to register. Register early to get your preferred session date.

After registering and submitting payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your assigned session.

What do I need to do to prepare for Summer Orientation?
  1. Register & pay for your Orientation.
  2. Complete an online math placement exam.
  3. Fill out your First-Year Survey for course registration.
Why should I stay overnight?

If you choose one of the Overnight Orientation events, you have the option to stay the night in College Hall – one of our residence halls that is most popular with first-year students. This will allow you to:

  • Meet other students in a more relaxed setting.
  • Attend social events that will allow you to start building friendships early.
  • Get familiar with campus life.
  • Interact with Peer Leaders – upper class student leaders who are here to help welcome you to the University.

You’ll be assigned to a room in College Hall with one or two other incoming first-year students. Each room includes a private bathroom.

If any of your roommates will be attending the same Summer Orientation event, reach out to the First-Year Experience office to coordinate your room assignment.

What should I bring?

Keep it simple and comfortable! Bring comfortable clothes, toiletries (soap, shampoo, etc.), and a pillow and blanket. While we do provide a bed and shower, we do not provide linens such as towels and sheets/blankets.

Is there a program for families?

Families are invited to attend Orientation. While some sessions will include both students and their families, there will also be times when students and family members participate in separate sessions.

Families are not required to attend the New Student Orientation event, but we have found that it can be helpful in many ways. Families are important partners in the New Student Orientation process.

Please note that there are no overnight accommodations for families, but there are many local hotels within a 10-minute drive of campus.

What is the cost?

The fee for each student and guest for an Overnight Summer Orientation event is $75. This includes all program activities, meals & snacks.

For the single-day Orientation event, the fee is $50.

There is an additional $20 Overnight Fee for students wishing to stay on campus during our Overnight Orientation events.

All payments must be made at the time of registering for Summer Orientation. Please contact our office if you need to make alternative arrangements. Fees are non-refundable and cannot be prorated.