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Orientation Sessions to Focus on New Student Connections, Information for Families

Ferris State University

PHOTO CAPTIONS: Students attending Ferris State University orientation sessions before the 2019-20 academic year will have a variety of opportunities during their visit, including completion of arrangements with Housing and Residence Life staff. Sessions will begin on Monday, June 10.


A mixture of experienced and newly-placed student orientation leaders and Office of Admissions staff have arranged 14 Ferris State University orientation sessions in preparation for welcoming new students to campus before the 2019-20 academic year.

Director of Orientation Eric Simone said their office anticipates around 2,000 students will visit the Big Rapids campus for orientation, which will begin on Monday, June 10.  Feedback Ferris State Universityreceived during 2018’s orientation schedule has prompted organizers to broaden the opportunity for socialization and making connections during each session.

“Those experiences we offer on the Campus Quad, directed by our student orientation leaders were very well received,” Simone said. “We want our students to develop a connection to the campus and student community during their session. Our student leaders have a wide range of experience with registered student organizations and other groups, which can help the newest members of the Ferris family find a sense of place.”

Simone said that while the students make connections on the Quad, their parents are getting to know the university better, as they are offered a question-and-answer session with orientation specialists and Ferris staffers.

“We want the parents to feel comfortable in this experience, for their family, by giving them answers and information on any subject or concern,” Simone said. “We also emphasize what we can offer them during Bulldog Family and Friends weekend, an opportunity to return to an active campus and Big Rapids community. This year, we have plenty of fun and excitement planned for Oct. 25 and 26.”

Orientation sessions will follow a Monday, Tuesday and Thursday schedule the weeks of June 10, July 8 and 15, a Monday through Thursday Schedule June 17-20, then, a final late session on Thursday, Aug. 22.

“The students and their family members will have the chance to meet with Housing and Residence Life staff, check in with representatives of their college, enjoy a meal with their family in the Quad Café and see university leaders,” Simone said. “We take every opportunity possible to get them off on the right foot as Bulldogs.”

Students are encouraged to fill out a free application to secure their space in an orientation session.

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