When students enroll in college, parents and families may feel both excited and nervous. The academic challenges, new connections, and development of interests and strengths are an incredible opportunity, and families are also wondering about university housing, food, campus safety, career opportunities, and financing this educational experience.
New Student and Family Orientation Schedule and Important Information
Parent and Family Orientation is a separate track from New Student Orientation and takes place on the first day of each orientation session.
Orientation Sessions
Families of First-Year Students
Family members are not required to attend Family Orientation, but strongly encouraged. Family Orientation takes place on the first day of each session, beginning with check-in at 8:15 a.m. and concluding by 4:30 p.m. Students register their families for orientation through their orientation registration process.
- Session I - Wednesday, June 17, 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Session II - Monday, June 22, 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Session III - Thursday, June 25, 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Session IV - Sunday, June 28, 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Session V - Monday, July 20, 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Families of transfer students are invited to attend Family Orientation with their students on Wednesday, August 19, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Students register their families through their orientation registration process.
Program Goals
- Learn how to help your students prepare for success in college and beyond.
- Learn more about what it means to be a “college parent.”
- Be introduced to the valuable resources necessary for student academic, personal, and career success.
- Meet other parents/family members and begin to build relationships with your new community.
Parking at Orientation
West Campus Residence Complex is located at 160 Wintergreen Avenue, New Haven, CT 06515. There is ample parking in the West Campus Garage located behind West Campus, where you will be directed upon arrival. Please visit the Campus Map for directions and additional parking.
Beyond Orientation
Connect with Southern and learn how Southern supports parents and families through this journey.
Contact Orientation, Transition & Family Engagement for questions about orientation.