Ask a rep-What can I expect at first-year orientation?
A: Most universities in Canada offer some type of orientation for first-year students. Some are mandatory and have no cost; others are optional and have a small cost associated. Either way, I encourage you to attend your first-year orientation, as it will be a very fun and informative experience for you.
First-year orientations usually run one or two days and include: Campus tours lead by current student volunteers.
Opportunities to meet people in your faculty, such as deans, professors, staff, upper-level students and other first-year students.
Obtaining your photo ID in advance of first week lineups.
Transition workshops.
At the University of Regina, we offer orientation during the week prior to the fall semester. Orientation is open to all new students, including those coming directly from high school, those transferring from another postsecondary institution, international students and mature students. Our tours are led by student ambassadors who share their experiences with you, show you classroom locations and take you to have your photo ID taken. The week following orientation, we also have a help desk attended by ambassadors who can answer any questions you may have or help you if you are lost.
Orientation is a great introduction to university. It helps you to feel less intimidated and more prepared to start classes. It also gives you the chance to meet the people you will be spending the next four years of your life with, including other new students who are in the same situation. It’s an exciting time in your life, so make the best of it, and attend your orientation!
Sheila McLean is high school liaison officer at the University of Regina.
