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What to Expect During First-Year Orientation

First-Year Orientation Information

Our first-year orientation program is required for all first-year students and is designed to help you make a smooth transition to UNCW.

Below, you'll learn more about what to expect while attending your required Orientation program.

Arrival and Check-in

August Orientation Check-in

Orientation check in will take place from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. on Day 1 of the session in the Warwick Center. Students who arrive after 9 a.m. must go directly to the Burney Center to check in.

Students and guests will park in the Visitor's Lot before checking in. During check-in, students and guests will check in together by the student's last name. 

 

Continental Breakfast and Orientation Welcome

After check-in, all students and guests will report to the Burney Center for a continental breakfast and the orientation welcome. Students and guests arriving after 9 a.m. should report directly the Burney Center.

What You'll Eat

During orientation, students and guests will rotate between Wagoner Dining Hall, the Shore Dining Hall, and the Hawk's Nest*. 

*Not all Hawk's Nest locations are available for Orientation. Available locations will be listed on your Orientation schedule received at check-in. 

Vegetarian, Vegan, and gluten-free options are available at each meal time. Additional dietary restrictions should be included in your Orientation registration.

What You'll Do

Student Orientation Schedule

The August student orientation program runs from 9:15 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Day 1 and from 7:45 a.m. to noon on Day 2. Students must participate in all activities. 

A more detailed schedule will be posted soon.

What to Bring

All students should bring: 
  • Your UNCW login username and password
  • Phone Charger or Power Bank
  • Something to take notes with/on
  • Comfortable clothes & shoes
  • Refillable Water bottle
  • Rain gear (jacket, umbrella, shoes)
  • Any medications

First-Year Orientation Information

Before Attending Orientation Dates, Deadlines, Fees, Guest Information, Early Arrival, Accessibility, Travel, and Pre-Orientation Requirements Prepare to Register for Orientation
What to Expect During Orientation Day-of Orientation information, Schedule Overview, and What to Bring See What to Expect
Post-Orientation Checklist Everything you need to know and do after Orientation Check out the Checklist

Other Orientation Programs

Family & Guest Orientation Learn more about the family and guest orientation sessions. Go to Family & Guest Orientation
Transfer Orientation Register for Transfer Orientation rather than First-Year Orientation if you’re coming to UNCW from another college or university. Go to Transfer Orientation
International Student Orientation Register for International Student Orientation in addition to First-Year Orientation. Go to International Student Orientation

Contact Us

Transition Programs

Phone: (910) 962-3089

transitions@uncw.edu

Fisher University Union
Room 2017

Office Hours:
Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Summer Office Hours:
Monday – Thursday, 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.