Northern Arizona University

About Freshman Orientation

Am I required to attend Freshman Orientation?

Northern Arizona University expects all new students to attend Orientation. It is a time for students to get better acquainted with the university and partake in class registration for their first term. 

What will I do at Freshman Orientation?

Freshman Orientation consists of a 2-day Orientation program. At your Orientation you will participate in workshops and sessions about Financial Aid, our Gateway Student Success Center, your major, academic advisors, faculty, student organizations, and many others. You will have the opportunity to get to know an upperclass Orientation Leader who can answer your questions. The Counseling and Testing Center will be available for you to take placement exams if necessary. You will meet with an advisor and enroll in your courses. You will stay in a residence hall on campus during Orientation. Click here for a sample agenda.

Do I have to stay on campus for Freshman Orientation?

Most students choose to stay in the residence hall during Orientation; however, it is not a requirement. Space in the residence hall is available for every Orientation student during the 2-day freshman sessions. If you plan to stay the night in the hall please make note of possible items to bring below.

Are parents required to attend Freshman Orientation?

No. However, parent participation is encouraged. Family members are welcome to attend Orientation for a small fee which covers programming, meals and materials.  Family members have a separate agenda where staff will answer questions more specific to being a parent, grandparent, guardian or spouse of a student.  Family members should make arrangements to stay at a local hotel during Orientation as housing in the residence hall is only provided for students.  Lodging discounts are available on the Office of Parent Service's website. Click here to find out more information regarding the Freshman Orientation Family/Guest Program.

When is Freshman Orientation?

Orientation dates for freshmen entering during the fall 2009 are in May and June. Please click here to see which orientation sessions are open.

Orientation dates for freshmen entering during the spring 2010 are in December and January. Please click here to see which orietnation sessions are open.

*Please note that December and January Orientation sessions are only 1-day sessions. Students will not be staying the night in a residence hall for these sessions.

Why should I attend Freshman Orientation?

Orientation is a great opportunity to meet people and learn about life as a Northern Arizona University Lumberjack. At Orientation you will learn tips on navigating the university system, on succeeding academically and on getting involved in campus life. You will enroll in your courses and be prepared for the upcoming semester.

During Orientation you will receive a lot of helpful information. You will receive the Orientation Handbook - a guide to life on campus. You will have an opportunity to meet with students from many clubs on campus and gather information about Greek Life, Outdoor Activities, campus services, and other campus events. You will also have a chance to hear from faculty on their expectations from our students.

What should I bring to Freshman Orientation?

What you should bring will depend on the time of year in which you are attending Orientation. Flagstaff has 4 seasons. December and January tend to be cold and possibly snowy. June and July tend to be sunny and warm during the day and cool at night. It often rains in the afternoon in June and July. No matter the time of year, Orientation is a fun and informal event so dress comfortably.

You should also bring:

*Official copy of your final high school transcript

*Copies of transcripts from all previous colleges attended

*A copy of ACT/SAT scores if taken after March 1, 2009.

*Financial aid and immunization information

*Casual clothes, walking/athletic shoes, jacket

*Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, umbrella

*Notebook and pen

*List of any questions you have

Students staying in the residence halls for the 2-day freshman sessions need to bring a sleeping bag or linens for the bed, toiletries and a towel.

What is an Orientation Leader?

An Orientation Leader is a returning NAU student (sophomore, junior or senior) who has been trained on the campus systems and is familiar with where things are, who does what, and where to go. Orientation Leaders take a 3 credit hour course and attend numerous other trainings to be prepared to help you succeed. If you are interested in becoming an Orientation Leader click here.

Do you offer special accommodations?

If you have special needs or accommodations please notify the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and Orientation at (928) 523-0632 at least two weeks prior to your Orientation date so that we can plan accordingly.