The short answer is "No, it is not mandatory". But why would you deprive yourself of the opportunity to get a head start on your college experience? Orientations give students (and parents) the opportunity to get a feel for college life before the first day of class, which I can tell you from personal experience can be both hurried and a little terrifying. Students will have the opportunity to find out where their classes are, where they can buy their books, how to get around the campus, who to ask for help, and even where the bathrooms are (trust me, that is important). In addition to getting familiar with the campus students will have a chance to meet staff and faculty from different departments in the college and ask questions that can help students make the decision of what they want to focus on.
Orientations also give students a chance to be around other students coming to college for the first time. They get to see that they are not the only one who has no idea where room 0216 is. Friendships are often forged at orientation that can last through the college experience and beyond. Orientations also mark an important step toward independence for most college students. While parents often attend orientations, it is also a first step for many students into a more independent world.
What to bring to Orientation:
Paper and pen – there will be a lot of information that is covered during the orientation and there will always be something that was mentioned that you may need later. Rather than try to remember all that information you can write it down and have it for later.
Questions – One of the purposes of the orientation is to answer questions before the semester actually starts. If you think of some questions you have about College write them down on the paper you will be bringing (see its paying off already) so you don’t forget them. Oh, and don’t be afraid to ask your questions. If you have them there are probably many people who have the same question.
A good mood – Sure, one of the purposes of orientations is to get information to students but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun doing it. So show up in a good mood and have fun during your orientation, save the grump for finals.
…and if you haven’t signed up for an orientation yet, what are you waiting for? Visit http://www.centralaz.edu/Home/Admissions/Orientation_To_College.htm to reserve your seat.
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