Important Information
What is Orientation all about?  Orientation is designed to ease you through the beginning steps of your student entering college.  Through workshops, presentations, and small group discussions, we hope to make the beginning of your student’s college career exciting and successful.  You will learn firsthand about University policies, procedures and programs, as well as what resources and services UMass Dartmouth has to offer.  By the time you leave campus, you will know more about UMass and, more importantly, you will develop relationships with other families for the upcoming school year.

What will Orientation cost?
The standard family orientation fee is $75.00 per person.  This fee applies to all guests who are attending the Family Orientation program.  The fee covers the cost of program features, meals, speakers and evening activities.  While younger children may accompany family members, there will be no separate programs or accommodations for them.  Orientation is not mandatory for families.  However, it is mandatory for all incoming students.  Orientation will help ease families through the beginning of your student’s college career.

What should I bring with me?
Orientation is both informal and enjoyable.  You should bring casual clothes, comfortable walking shoes, your questions, a good sense of humor and everything you would need for an overnight stay.

What your student should bring: http://www.umassd.edu/studentaffairs/orientation/newstud.cfm

Is Family Orientation fun?
Of course! We understand that you need to enjoy this experience as much as your students will. Your orientation leaders are excited to meet you and have some wonderful things planned for your time here. Be ready for icebreakers, bingo, and many other surprises.

Here's what parents and families said about the previous UMass Dartmouth Family Orientation Programs:

"I would highly recommend that every parent experience this.  You all were great!"

"Thank you for an enjoyable experience!"

"The staff and student leaders were all very helpful!"

"I was very impressed with all of the folks involved and the opportunities to learn about the school.  Great job!  I have 2 others in college and this was the best orientation I have been to!!"