FAQ - ORIENTATION

Coming to an orientation program marks the beginning of your educational journey at YSU. Through our programming, you will make vital connections to campus resources, services, faculty, professional staff, upper-class students, and the campus community. If you are a first-year student, you will also have the opportunity to go through our formal advisement and registration process. Our orientation programs not only help you and your family through your first semester but through the personal transitions you will continue to make during your career at YSU.

While it is not mandatory for parents or family members to attend the Orientation programs, their participation is highly encouraged. During the first-year student orientation, parents will join their students for some sessions. However, there are specific times throughout the day when the schedules for parents and students will differ.

The parent programming is tailored to address the unique challenges and transitions parents may face as their students begin their journey at the University. We understand the significant role parents play in their students' college careers, and we've designed sessions to effectively meet the needs of both students and their families.

In general, a Peer Leader (PL) is a first-year student's best friend on campus. Once the academic year begins, the PL will provide assistance and guidance with the multitude of transitional issues students may face in their first year. To learn more about the PL role, check out First-Year Student Services. 

No, our orientation programs are structured in a way that every session is a necessary component of the process. You must complete all of the sessions in order to complete the course registration portion of the orientation program.

No, all tests must be taken prior to your first-year student orientation date. This policy is in place so academic advisors may have your results for the advisement and registration session on your program date.

This is not permitted. If you do not take your required placement tests prior to your orientation date, you will not be permitted to register for English Composition, Foreign Language, Mathematics, or Reading courses. Please refer to the Placement Testing Services for additional testing information. 

No, parents and family members will have a different agenda than their student during this session. Students will be assisted by professional advisors and orientation staff during the advisement and registration session. These individuals are trained to facilitate registration for students. Parents should feel free to discuss academic plans at home prior to their student's orientation.

No, you don't need to, in fact, the bookstore's supply may not be available depending on the date of your orientation program. Most students come back in late July/early August with a copy of their textbook list or wait until the first week of classes to purchase their books. Please feel free to check out the YSU Bookstore online for more information.