Orientation Overview

New Student Orientation is a three-day/two-night program in which new students are invited to live on campus and begin preparation for the fall semester. All students, regardless of whether they plan to commute or reside on campus in the fall, are required to stay in the residence halls during the summer New Student orientation program.

Students who participate in orientation will be better prepared to begin their academic career at Hofstra. During these three days, we will answer your questions about academic, social and logistical matters before classes begin in September. There are eight three-day sessions to choose from. Please indicate your top three preferences when you register online. Dates are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, and space is limited.

Before attending orientation, students will receive information about the common reading, which will be discussed in the model class held during the summer program. A member of the Hofstra University faculty facilitates each model class. The class discussion can flow naturally into a conversation about course-related expectations for new students. The differences between high school and college are significant; having professors identify their expectations before classes begin is extremely beneficial. The session concludes with an overview of campus resources that can be useful in meeting course requirements and professors’ expectations. Students consistently rate the model class as one of their top experiences at New Student Orientation.

Students will also become familiar with the academic and career resources available at Hofstra, including degree requirements and the advisement process. Students have an opportunity to meet their advisement dean from the Center for University Advisement during the “Meet Your Dean” session. During this session your advisement dean will introduce you to the advisement system at Hofstra, designed to support you in reaching your academic goals at Hofstra. Your advisement dean will discuss academic expectations, resources, and policies and procedures. This is followed by a question-and-answer session to clarify any concerns you may have about the curriculum. The “Meet Your Dean” session will also prepare you for the advisement meeting to follow on Thursday. Advisement appointment times are distributed at this session.

On Thursday, students meet with an advisement dean from the Center for University Advisement or a member of the faculty. For students who have preregistered for First-Year Connections seminars and clusters, this is an opportunity to round out your schedule and complete the registration process. Advisement appointments are scheduled from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.