Orientation | Freshmen (Summer)
Freshmen Orientation 2009 (Summer)
Looking forward to beginning college? Excited and anticipating a great experience, yet just a little anxious? How is college life different from high school? How challenging are classes? What is there to do on campus? Will I have help if I need it? When do I register for classes? What is it like to live on campus? Will I meet people I'll like? Will I be successful?
The answers to these questions and many more are answered when you attend Freshman Orientation. In fact, you will attend a summer Orientation and a fall Orientation just before the start of classes. This gives you plenty of time to meet people, get to know the campus better, and to take care of all the most important processes in a relaxed, fun atmosphere with lots of assistance from current students, faculty, academic advisors and staff. It is also during the summer Orientation that you will:
- meet with your academic advisor
- finalize your fall semester class schedule
- attend information sessions regarding campus services, academic support services, how to be a successful student at UA, academic goal setting, personal and property safety, residential life, commuter information and much more
- receive your student I.D. card
- become familiar with the campus and meet new classmates
- experiece a one-night stay in a residence hall
With assistance, correct information and an idea of what to expect of the University community, you'll be off to a great start! You'll also be able to make well-informed decisions that will help you to take advantage of all the University offers you.
Summer Planning Conference Dates are as follow:
| July 2 - 3 |
(Th- F) |
|
July 16 - 17 |
(Th - F) |
| July 6 - 7 |
(M - T) |
|
July 20 - 21 |
(M - T) |
| July 9 - 10 |
(Th - F) |
|
July 23 - 24 |
(Th - F) |
| July 13 - 14 |
(M - T) |
|
July 27 - 28 |
(M - T) |
"Great Dane Beginnings"
which is the name of the fall orientation welcome weekend for freshmen program occurs on Thursday, August 27 through Sunday, August 30.
A full schedule of programs and activities are planned for both commuter and resident students to give you a jump-start on your college experience. (Complete schedule will be on our web site and will be mailed in August)
- Send your $150 Admissions Deposit to the Student Accounts Office by the May 1 deadline.
- UAlbany mails you a "Welcome Packet" by mid-May that contains orientation information and important information from several other offices.
(Students who pay their Deposit after May 1 will receive this information on a rolling basis.)
- Select 3 dates you are able to come to Summer Planning Conference. Rank order your preferences.
- Print and return your Reservation form, Payment Transmittal form and $200 Orientation fee*. Subsequently, you will receive a confirmation of the date to which you are assigned, along with material you must act on before you arrive.
- If your parents/guardians plan on attending, there is an additional cost. Please refer to the "Parent" section.
* Orientation Fee covers costs associated with summer and fall student programs, including special staff, meals, and all printed materials and is payable when you reserve your Orientation date.
When is freshman orientation? What will happen during Orientation?
Freshman Orientation consists of 2 days in the summer (Summer Planning Conference) and additional days just before the start of classes in the fall (fall orientation welcome weekend for freshmen program called "Great Dane Beginnings"). Summer Planning Conference (SPC) marks the beginning of your orientation to the campus community and will provide you with the information necessary to make your transition as smooth as possible. Every freshman will attend one of the eight 2-day conferences between July 2 and July 28.
At SPC, faculty, academic advisors, professional staff and student Orientation Assistants are excited to meet you and guide you and your group throughout the program. During this time, you will:
- meet with your academic advisor
- finalize your fall semester class schedule
- attend information sessions regarding campus services, academic support services, how to be a successful student at UA, academic goal setting, personal and property safety, residential life, commuter information and much more
- receive your student I.D. card
- become familiar with the campus and meet new classmates
- experiece a one-night stay in a residence hall
Plan to check in on the 1st day of your conference between 10 and 10:30am. Your 1st meeting begins promptly at 10:40. You will participate in many programs throughout the 1st day and into the evening. On the 2nd day, the program will resume at 8:00am. Students will meet with their advisor at some point during their conference. The conference ends at about 3pm on the 2nd day.
Do I need to attend one of the first summer Orientations to get the classes I want?
Your course registration will occur before you attend Orientation, so it doesn't matter which date you select. You should select dates that best suit you/your family's summer plans.
What should I bring to summer Orientation?
- Linen or sleeping bag, pillow, towels
- Informal clothing that is appropriate for outdoor activities and comfortable shoes (Significant walking and outdoor activity will be required. Bring sneakers; sandals alone will not suffice.)
- Portable fan, umbrella
- Photo ID, UAlbany ID number, and pens/pencils
- Activate your myUAlbany and University email accounts and bring your Net ID and password
- Parking permit and campus map from your confirmation of orientation date mailing
- Money for vending machines and bookstore if desired.
- Your questions.
How can I carpool with a friend(s) who is also planning to attend UAlbany?
Students who would like to attend the same Conference should mail their Reservation forms and fees in the same envelope and add a note that you would like to carpool. All students planning to carpool should select the same 3 dates in priority order. While we will make every effort to accommodate your wishes, this is not always possible.
Can I bring a friend to Orientation?
If you would like to carpool with another new student, please follow the directions as stated above in "How can I carpool with a friend(s)?" You will not likely be in the same group, but you will certainly have opportunities to spend time together periodically. You will not be able to bring a friend who is not coming to the University as a new student. No accommodations can be made for others who are not assigned to your Orientation date and you will be busy attending mandatory sessions and completing numerous important administrative processes.
I have a long drive to get to campus. Can I stay on campus the night before Orientation?
Yes, there are overnight accommodations available the night before your orientation.
Apartment style accommodations are available on Empire Commons. These feature air conditioning and full size beds, but there is no phone or TV in the apartment. While you will have your own bedroom/bathroom, you may be assigned to share an apartment with someone else as there are two separate bedroom/bathrooms located within each apartment. Towels, linens and blankets are provided. There is access to a Community Building until 8:00 pm that houses a TV, Fitness Center, pool table, and foosball table. Call (518) 956-6250 for reservations. The cost is $50/bedroom.
Students stay on Colonial Quad the night of their actual orientation which is covered by their orientation fee. No linen is provided for the student on their orientation night. Parents do not reside with students on their orientation night.
Will I stay with my parents?
No, students stay with their group and their group's Orientation Assistant, a current student, on Colonial Quad. Parents may opt to make reservations for:
What do I need to prepare/complete before coming to Orientation?
What do I need to complete prior to the fall?
- Attend a Freshman Planning Conference.
-
Planning to live on campus?
Housing information will be mailed after May 1 to newly accepted and deposited students in the UA "Welcome Packet." Included in this mailing will be information on how to complete your housing application online via the MyUAlbany website.
For information on campus living: http://www.albany.edu/housing/
Health Forms — All new students must complete and return Health Forms to the University Health Center.
http://www.albany.edu/health_center
Click "Health Forms," then click on the two links in the text on the right for Forms and more information. These forms are also included in the "Welcome Packet." Questions may be directed via email to: askUHC@uamail.albany.edu.
Complete Admissions Process — Be certain that final official transcripts of all college coursework, CLEP and AP credit have been sent to the Undergraduate Admissions Office.
Financial Aid — To be eligible for any form of financial aid, you must first apply. Information for new students can be found at http://www.albany.edu/financialaid
I am going to commute to Albany from my home. Must I stay overnight?
Yes, all freshmen, whether they plan to live on campus during the academic year or commute from home, attend the full 2-day summer orientation program that includes one night on campus. There is much to be learned about the University and how you will relate to it, and our program sessions begin early and end late on the 1st day. There are social events that night that provide an excellent opportunity for all students to get to know one another. We begin again early the 2nd morning and meetings continue until 3:00 pm. Information learned is equally applicable to both commuter and resident students.
Will my roommate at Orientation be my roommate during the academic year?
There is no relationship between the person(s) with whom you stay overnight at Orientation and the person(s) with whom you will live during the academic year. Roommates are assigned randomly for your Orientation night.
What is the fall orientation welcome weekend for freshmen program?
Freshman participate in additional days of orientation called "Great Dane Beginnings" that occurs immediately before classes begin in the fall. This fall portion of the program continues with more detail than you learned in the summer program. In addition, you will be able to attend a variety of social programs so you can meet many more of your classmates which will help you feel part of the campus community right away.
Among last year's events were:
- traditional official University welcome of new students at the Candlelighting Ceremony and fireworks,
- liquid video jam party,
- bus tour of City of Albany,
- block party,
- "Screen on the Green" outdoor movie,
- volleyball tourney,
- intramural fair,
- hypnotist,
- and more.
When do I move in for the fall semester if I plan to live on campus?
Students living in Eastman Tower on State Quad or Mohawk Tower on Indian Quad on floors 11-21 can move in on Wednesday, August 26, while all other freshmen move in on Thursday, August 27. The fall orientation welcome weekend for freshmen "Great Dane Beginnings" occurs from Thursday, August 27 through Sunday, August 30.
What if I can't make it in the summer?
You are strongly urged to attend Orientation in the summer when all staff can focus attention on new students.
In most cases, students who attend orientation in the summer feel better prepared for a successful start to the school year. They meet with their advisor and become acquainted with the campus, its community and services, faculty, staff and classmates in a relaxed summer environment. However, if it is impossible for you to attend a summer program, you should select the 2-day Fall Planning Conference that occurs on August 27 - 28. As all other freshmen, you will also attend the fall orientation welcome weekend for freshmen "Great Dane Beginnings" that continues through Sunday, August 30. An abbreviated Fall Parent Information Program occurs on Wednesday, August 26 from 2:00—5:00 pm.
Freshmen Parent FAQ's:
Is there a parent summer orientation program?
Yes, there is a 2-day summer Parent Orientation Program. Although it is an optional program, we do encourage parents to attend if at all possible. Parents/Guardians of freshmen overwhelmingly indicate that they learn a great deal and feel more comfortable with the University community, even if they have visited campus prior to Orientation. It is a great way to get the most up to date information, meet faculty and staff, and to learn of the campus resources that will help your son or daughter to make a successful transition. This program is concurrent but separate from the student program. Due to the student's schedule, it is not likely that there will be interaction between family members and students until you are ready to depart from campus.
Note: There is a fee for the summer parent program.
Typical topics covered in the Parents Orientation Program are:
- academic environment, academic support services, and academic advisement
- student life opportunities
- residential life
- services such as health and counseling
- financial aid and billing details
- computer information
- parents weekend/parent services
- resource fair — academic advisement, academic support services, athletics, banking, bookstore, dining services, computer sales, student health insurance, University Police Department, and student association are typically represented
- information regarding move-in day and fall orientation welcome weekend "Great Dane Beginnings" activities for commuter and residential students
What is the fee for the optional Parent Orientation Program?
What does it cover?
The fee for the Parent Orientation is $55 for 1 or 2 parents/guardians. The fee covers costs associated with the program including special staff, printed materials and continental breakfast at Check-In on the 1st day.
The parent fee does not cover lodging or meals.
Parents may purchase a two-day Luncheon Pass at Check-In. This allows you to participate in two luncheon programs which feature a presentation by a faculty member and a discussion of dining, bookstore and banking services. (cash only please).
Are there on-campus accommodations for parents who wish to stay overnight?
Yes, there are overnight accommodations available for parents on the night of orientation at an additional cost.
Apartment style accommodations are available on Empire Commons. These feature air conditioning and full size beds, but there is no phone or TV in the apartment. Towels, linens and blankets are provided. There is access to a Community Building until 8:00 pm that houses a TV, Fitness Center, pool table, and foosball table. Call (518) 956-6250 for reservations. The cost is $50/bedroom.
Listed below is a list of several nearby motels with air conditioning, TV and phones for parents who prefer this option or you may visit the Albany Visitors Bureau site for a more complete list of local lodging and eateries. http://www.albany.org/
Please note: Students stay with other freshmen on Colonial Quad the night of their orientation, which is covered by the student orientation fee. No linen is provided for the student on their orientation night on Colonial Quad. Parents may not reside with students on their orientation night.
What should parents bring?
Depending upon your situation, you may wish to consider:
- Comfortable shoes and informal clothing — significant walking is necessary
- Tennis shoes/racket/balls — tennis courts are available on campus
- Running/walking shoes — 3 mile road circles campus (University Drive)
- Umbrella may be needed
How can parents make reservations for motels in close proximity to campus?
Motels
For parents only: Motels located closest to campus are listed below:
Best Western Sovereign Hotel
1228 Western Avenue
Albany, NY 12203 (518) 489-2981
1-800-WESTERN
Includes full breakfast, pool and free local calls
Days Inn - Albany/SUNY
1230 Western Avenue
Albany, NY 12203
Book on line (www.daysinn.com) or call (518) 489-4423
Includes continental breakfast, internet access and small fitness center
Holiday Inn Express
1442 Western Avenue
Albany, NY 12203 (518) 438-0001
(888) 651-0040
Includes continental breakfast, heated indoor swimming pool and fitness center
CrestHill Suites Hotel
1415 Washington Avenue
Albany, NY 12206
(518) 454-0007
Mention you are the parent of a UAlbany student
Fairfield Inn by Marriott
1383 Washington Avenue
Albany, NY 12206 (518) 435-1800
1-800-228-2800
Includes continental breakfast, pool, spa, wireless Internet access and free local calls
Hilton Garden Inn
1389 Washington Avenue
Albany, NY 12206
(518) 453-1300
Thruway Courtyard by Marriott
1455 Washington Avenue
Albany, NY 12206 (518) 435-1600
1-800-321-2211
TownPlace Suites by Marriott
1379 Washington Avenue
Albany, NY 12206
(518) 435-1900
Extended Stay America
1395 Washington Avenue
Albany, NY 12206 (518) 446-0680
1-800-EXT-STAY
Wireless internet, laundry facilities available
There are many additional motels/hotels available throughout the area. For more information about the Albany area, lodging, area attractions and events by the month, visit http://www.albany.org/.
Sample Parent Orientation Schedule
Plan to check in for the Parent Orientation Program between 10-10:30 am. The formal presentations end at about 4:30 pm on the 1st day. The program begins again promptly at 8:30 am on the 2nd day and terminates at 3 pm for both parents and students. Please note that while the parent program is optional, students are expected to participate in their entire program.
This schedule reflects past programs and is subject to modifications due to parent feedback from last year. Please note: The student program is very full. Therefore it is not likely that you will interact with your daughter/son until after the program ends on day 2.
Day 1:
Check In:
Pay for luncheon reservations (cash only please)
Refreshments available for parents
Welcome and Opening Address
Sue Faerman, Ph.D. -- Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education Academic Support Services
Learn what it takes to be successful academically at UA as well as the support that is available to students.
Advisement Services Center Suzanne Philips - Director of Advisement Services Center
Lunch Program (pre-paid at Check in) OR Lunch On Your Own
The optional Lunch Program will feature a presentation about food services.
University Counseling Services
Estela Rivero, Ph.D. - Director of University Counseling Services
University Health Services
Peter Vellis, M.D. -- Director of University Health Services
Residential Life
Laurie Garafola - Director of Residential Life
Learn about the housing options that are available to freshmen, process of housing sign up, and services and programs offered by the Department of Residential Life.
IT and Computing Resources
Information Technology Services
What are the technology needs of today's UA student?
What does the University offer?
"Money Matters" - Student Financial Services
Latonia Spencer - Director of Student Accounts
Beth Post - Director of Financial Aid
Discussion of financial aid and student billing processes
Evening - Optional Activities On Your Own:
- tennis on Dutch Quad courts (bring equipment)
- jog or walk our 3 mile University Drive or use the track
- shop area malls, go to a movie, tour area
- movie on Empire Commons at 6:30pm
Day 2:
8:00 am
University Offices open for parents with specific questions/concerns. Formal program begins at 8:30 am and ends at 3 pm.
8:15 am
Resource Fair: Opportunity for parents to discuss specific concerns, receive additional information and to ask questions of a variety of campus services' representatives. Informal setting allows for individual conversations.
Representatives available may include:
- Academic Support Services
- Advisement Services Center
- Apogee (Computer Network Program in Residence Halls)
- Athletics - Go Great Danes!
- Banking Services
- Chapel House Interfaith Center
- Disability Resourc Services
- Financial Aid Office
- Information Technology Services
- Mail and Copy Services
- Residential Life
- Student Accounts Office
- Student Involvement Services
- Study Abroad Programs
- Student Health Insurance
- SUNYCard/Podium Accounts
- University Dining Services
- University Health Services
- University Libraries
- University Police Department
Transitions: Your Student And Your Family
Conversation features current Albany students concerning the adjustments to college life. Staff from the Counseling Center facilitates discussion. This program is one of our most popular offerings for parents.
Where In The World?
Study Abroad Advisor
Study Abroad offers students a unique educational experience. Learn about the options available to UA students. It's worth a bit of thoughtful planning early.
Student Involvement -- What's In It For Your Student?
Student Involvement Staff
Learn how student involvement in their campus community promotes the development of important leadership and personal skills, and answers the age-old question of "What is there to do on campus?"
Formal Parent Luncheon Featuring a Faculty Speaker (or lunch on your own) (Pre-paid at check in)
This program is one of our most popular offerings for parents.
Walking tour includes a visit to a residence hall suite OR take a bus tour of downtown Albany with student guides, OR visit offices/University Bookstore on your own
"What Comes Next?"
Parent Liaison and Orientation Staff
Light refreshments and some fun UA giveaway items enliven this opportunity to learn important information about move-in day along with tips for keeping stress free, and the Great Dane Beginnings Fall Orientation for Freshmen Program.
3:00 pm
Meet your son/daughter for departure.
last updated 4/16/2009
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