Office of First Year Programs

Welcome Week

A key aspect of the first year programs is the new student orientation, which is held from Thursday through Sunday prior to the start of the fall semester. Numerous informational sessions, social activities, and student/faculty events are offered throughout the four days.Students have the opportunity to meet and interact with faculty, staff, and upper-class students in a variety of formal and informal environments, including Opening Convocation, the new student picnic, and the faculty advisor/new student dinner. A unique aspect of orientation at Susquehanna is the O-Team, a large group of upper-class student advisors and orientation leaders that assist new students and their families in unloading cars, moving in and answering questions. The orientation leaders attend social events with the new students, lead small group discussions and present a "Welcome to SU" variety show. Student advisors assist students during orientation and throughout the first semester in registration, study hints, and answering questions. Other activities during orientation include a musician, hypnotist, and game shows in Charlie's Coffeehouse.

On the Saturday of orientation, all new students participate in a Community Service Project. Assisting at different venues around Selinsgrove community and the surrounding communities, students are able to interact with community members, meet other first year students, and gain a sense of satisfaction through volunteering. The community service afternoon continues to be a favorite among Susquehanna students.