20 Questions

Questions to Ask at College Orientation

Essential questions to ask during college orientation to make the most of your academic experience and get prepared for success.

1

What academic support services are available and how do I access them?

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Why this works

Helps you understand what resources are available to support your academic success and how to use them.

2

What are the key deadlines and important dates I need to know?

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Why this works

Ensures you don't miss important academic deadlines, registration periods, or campus events.

3

How do I choose the right courses for my major and interests?

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Why this works

Provides guidance on course selection and helps you plan your academic path effectively.

4

What career services are available and how can they help me?

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Why this works

Shows you what resources are available for career planning and job search preparation.

5

How do I get involved in campus activities and organizations?

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Why this works

Helps you find ways to engage with campus life and build your network.

6

What housing options are available and how do I apply?

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Why this works

Important for understanding your living arrangements and the application process.

7

What financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available?

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Why this works

Helps you understand funding options and how to access financial support.

8

How do I access campus technology and what resources are available?

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Why this works

Ensures you can use campus technology effectively and understand what tools are available.

9

What health and wellness services are available on campus?

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Why this works

Important for understanding healthcare options and wellness resources available to students.

10

How do I connect with professors and build academic relationships?

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Why this works

Provides guidance on networking with faculty and building the relationships you'll need for success.

11

What study abroad and international opportunities are available?

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Why this works

Reveals opportunities for global learning and cultural exchange.

12

How do I handle academic challenges and where can I get help?

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Why this works

Ensures you know where to turn when you face academic difficulties.

13

What are the best ways to manage my time and stay organized?

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Why this works

Provides guidance on time management and organization skills crucial for college success.

14

How do I access library resources and research tools?

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Why this works

Ensures you can use the library effectively for research and academic work.

15

What internship and job opportunities are available for students?

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Why this works

Reveals opportunities for gaining work experience and building your resume.

16

How do I handle stress and maintain my mental health?

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Why this works

Important for understanding mental health resources and stress management strategies.

17

What are the campus safety resources and emergency procedures?

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Why this works

Ensures you understand safety protocols and know how to access help if needed.

18

How do I get involved in research opportunities?

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Why this works

Reveals opportunities for hands-on learning and academic enrichment.

19

What are the best ways to network and build professional relationships?

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Why this works

Provides guidance on building your professional network and career connections.

20

What questions should I be asking that I haven't thought of?

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Why this works

Allows staff to provide additional important information you might not have considered.

Maximizing Your College Orientation Experience

Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.

Best Practices for Orientation

Come Prepared

Bring a notebook, pen, and list of questions to make the most of your orientation experience.

Be Proactive

Don't wait for information to come to you - ask questions and seek out resources actively.

Take Notes

Write down important information and contact details for future reference.

Orientation Topics

Academic Resources

1
What academic support services are available?
2
How do I choose the right courses?
3
What career services are available?

Campus Life

1
How do I get involved in campus activities?
2
What housing options are available?
3
What health and wellness services are available?

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Don't Skip Sessions

Attend all orientation sessions to get comprehensive information about campus resources.

Avoid Information Overload

Take notes and organize information to avoid feeling overwhelmed by all the details.

Don't Be Afraid to Ask

Ask questions even if they seem basic - orientation is the time to get clarification.

Information Gathering Templates

The Resource Explorer

1
Step 1: Start with: 'What academic support services are available?'
2
Step 2: Follow with: 'How do I access these services?'
3
Step 3: Connect: 'What other resources should I know about?'

The Campus Navigator

1
Step 1: Ask: 'How do I get involved in campus activities?'
2
Step 2: Explore: 'What housing options are available?'
3
Step 3: Plan: 'What should I prioritize for my first semester?'

Further Reading

College Success and Study Skills
Campus Life and Student Activities
Academic Planning and Course Selection
Career Development and Professional Skills

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