July 23, 2024

Ferris State orientation and campus leaders inspired by new students’ interests, responses looking ahead to new academic year

Ferris State University students, staff, and faculty welcomed more than 1,600 new students through 12 orientation sessions spanning late June and early July. 

Ferris State assistant director of orientation Emily Hicks said the sessions attracted about 70 more students than last year. Orientation is intended to help students and families prepare to start college, working through last-minute details, and getting comfortable on campus prior to the Aug. 26 start of classes.  

“This has been a really successful summer,” Hicks said. “We can see that these students really identified with our orientation leaders.” 

Hicks said students and parents can contact the

Admissions team online to comment on their Summer 2024 orientation experience and gain answers to additional questions. 

“One parent wanted us to know the orientation a

nd the campus visit made them feel comfortable that their child would come here,” Hicks said. “Students reported they were glad orientation leaders offered their opinions easily and were engaging. The surveys show students look forward to their Bulldog experience this fall.” 

New student orientation is also an opportunity to get feedback to help tailor a student-focused experience to campus activities.  

Ben Avery, the Center for Student Involvement activities coordinator, used the four weeks of orientation to poll new students and provide information about engagement and entertainment opportunities on campus. 

“It is important to ensure students are aware of Ferris State’s traditions and our center’s event schedule,” Avery said. “We are collaborating with Entertainment Unlimited, our student-led program advisory board, to select the ‘right’ genres for our spring concert.” 

Beyond taking suggestions on whether young country stars or hip-hop artists would bring the most interest, Avery said students were enthusiastic.  

“They are more excited than ever to enter the decision-making process about this show, which is one of our major events,” Avery said. “We will tally their suggestions and narrow down considerations to develop a poll in the fall with artists who fit in those choice areas.” 

Avery said the center’s survey culminates during “Bulldog Beginnings” activities at the start of the academic year. 

Students who signed up for event reminder text messaging are entered into a drawing for $1,000 of student essentials. The winner will be announced during the ‘Late Night’ event on Saturday, Aug. 24, as part of Move-In Days. 

Hicks said a late orientation is planned for Aug. 22 as Move-In Days begin, with registration still available. 

“It is a half-day presentation that gives participants everything they need to become a Bulldog,” she said.