First Year Student Orientation

Orientation is a student-centered experience which will introduce you to our diverse campus life, connect you with new friends, and provide you with a strong foundation for academic success.

During Orientation you'll meet faculty and staff who are here to support you during your transition into college. We'll also provide you with the opportunity to have all of your questions answered and obtain valuable information about campus resources and support services, as well as how to become engaged in student organizations, cultural, and social events.

On behalf of our Orientation Team, and the Office of First Year Student Services, we're excited to welcome you to the YSU Penguin Family. We look forward to sharing with you all the great things YSU has to offer!

YSU Orientation Portal:

  • Orientation is a requirement for all first year undergraduate students.
  • After receiving your official acceptance packet from the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, follow the instructions to activate your Penguin Portal account utilizing the Username and six-digit YSU student ID number (Y00000000) provided. If you have any problems, please call the Tech Desk at (330) 941-1595 or email techdesk@ysu.edu.
  • Once your account is activated, you can then register for your Orientation session. The online reservation system is available 24/7. If you need to reschedule your session, you can log back into your account again, if necessary. Space in our sessions is in high demand, so register as soon as possible.
  • Instructions and program details will be confirmed via email once your reservation is submitted; and a reminder will be sent one week prior to your Orientation date.
  • If you have any questions, please contact FYSS at (330) 941-2131 or email us at orientation@ysu.edu.

Program Agendas and parent resources:

All first year students have a personalized agenda that is individual to them based on their college, major, and other factors. Your Orientation will be a fun day where you learn about the campus, meet other students, and leave with your classes scheduled. You will be spending time with your Orientation Leader, an upperclassmen student who serves as a knowledgeable resource and guide for all the things you really want to know about the college experience. They are here to share their personal perspective with you and answer all your questions about being a student at YSU. You will even leave with your official YSU ID!