First-Year Experience
Welcome, New Students
Get ready to take flight! As a new student, you will have access to tools, programs and resources to help you prepare for your Susquehanna journey.
Your experience begins the Thursday before classes start with Move-In, Convocation and Take Flight: Orientation — an enrollment requirement that officially welcomes you to campus. These events are designed to help you feel at home from day one and confident as you launch into your first semester.
We’ll support you as you settle in, thrive and grow into your best self.
Must-Do Tasks Before Move-In
River Hawk Portal Checklist
Your River Hawk Portal is your go-to resource for required tasks before arriving on campus this fall. There, you’ll find forms, wellness and safety online learning modules, and other important items to complete. If you have trouble logging in, please contact your admission representative for assistance.
Student-Athlete Checklist
In addition to the River Hawk Portal checklist, varsity student-athletes must complete NCAA compliance certification and institutional processes before participating in any Athletics activities. See the required checklist.
Packing for College Checklist
Use this handy list to help you prepare ahead of move-in. It includes essential items to bring to campus, as well as a few items that are best left at home. More details can be found in the Residence Life & Community-Living Policies.
Where Passion Meets Purpose
Straight from the Nest
“I met all my best friends during freshman orientation. The connections you make here feel immediate and close-knit — it’s a unique experience. I don’t think that happens elsewhere.”
— Arabella Cox ’25
“My favorite thing about life on Susquehanna’s campus is the fact that you feel like you’re a part of a community. I have friends across all different majors, not just my own. It really feels like everybody cares about you.”
— Eric Belfanti ’26
“The community at Susquehanna is just so tight-knit and it’s not a school where you fall through the cracks. Everyone knows everyone. Your professors and your peers care about you so much, and it’s just such a close family.”
— Beth Grove ’25
“The beauty of the campus made me fall in love with Susquehanna the moment I arrived. I love the scenery, the buildings, the grass — everything about it feels welcoming.”
— Tom Hallahan ’25
“Enjoy every minute. Homework doesn’t have to be your whole life here. Go see the play, join the club, attend Thanksgiving Dinner, the Candlelight service and Christmas caroling. There’s so much to do if you look — and I promise, you’ll still get your homework done.”
— Emily Chambers ’26
“Susquehanna’s professors and advisors truly care about their students’ education and their future. Their dedication made me want to come to Susquehanna and develop myself here.”
— Sophia Pasquariello ’25
“I chose Susquehanna for its wide array of political science classes. As someone considering law school, I was impressed by the variety of professors, areas of specialization and options available to political science students. It made Susquehanna the clear choice.”
— Jonathan Ulicny ’27
“I would describe the community at Susquehanna as very welcoming, very inclusive and like a giant family.”
— Lys Maurer ’26
“I can’t stress enough how great the professors are at Susquehanna. Any time I have a problem, they’re more than willing to help. With small class sizes, we’re able to build strong, personal connections with them.”
— David Sandell ’25
Welcome to the Nest
Events for New Students
Check out more event information for new students at Susquehanna University on our Events for New Students page. Here you will learn more about orientation, pre-flight programs, welcome week and much more.
Your Journey Begins Here
New Student Move-In and Orientation
Get ready for your first days on campus with everything you need to know about the move-in process and orientation schedule. This guide will help you feel confident, informed and ready to start your Susquehanna experience.
First-Year Experience
Packing for College Checklist
Explore our college packing list so you know what to bring (and what not to) for your first year at Susquehanna University!
Quick Links
