Freshman Orientation

What is Freshman Orientation?

Freshman orientation is designed for students who have not completed college classes after graduation from high school. If you completed college classes while in high school, you will still need to attend a freshman orientation. If you have completed college classes after graduation from high school, you will need to attend a transfer orientation. If you have questions on which orientation you should attend, please call the Orientation Office at 719-255-3098.

Freshman Orientation Checklist

Prior to coming to orientation you will need to complete the following:

1.If needed, take the Math Placement Test - If you have previously taken a 100-level or higher math course, or have AP or IB test grades, you do not need to take the Math Placement Test. If you are unsure on whether you need to take the Math Placement Test go here and  look at your intended major. If you have not yet taken the Math Placement Test click here. If you do not complete the Math Placement Test prior to your orientation session you will be unable to register for your math class.

2. Bring or send you Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) records - This is a state requirement. You must submit proof that you have been immunized against Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) to the Student Health Center (719-255-4444) before you can enroll in your second semester classes.

3. Pick a Freshman Seminar class - The freshman seminar class is the best way to meet other students interested in the same things as you, while learning how to navigate UCCS. Visit this site for more information.

4. Check you email for the orientation confirmation email - This email will have important information, such as the orientation location/time for check-in. You should receive this email approximately one week after you submit your orientation reservation form. Check your spam/junk folder or call the Orientation Office at 719-255-3098 if you do not see it.

5. Log-in to your UCCS account - This is different than your prospective student account. Go here and select 'Claim your account.' Then follow the instructions. If you have any problems call the Helpdesk at 719-255-3536.

6. Read the Student Rights and Responsibilities - These are expectations UCCS has for you and what you can expect from UCCS.

7. Check out Preparing for Freshman Orientation - This site has all the information you need to know on what to do from when you are accepted to UCCS until you attend an orientation.

8. Relax! Orientation is a busy, but fun-filled day where you'll meet new friends, register for classes, and learn more about UCCS.

Freshman Orientation Schedule

Please note that this is just a sample schedule. Your actual schedule might be slightly different.

Pick up your orientation materials and enjoy a bite to eat on us!

9:00-9:45a Welcome - Orientation Coordinator, Carol Blade Centennial Hall 203
We start your morning off right with an introduction to our Freshman Seminar program from the Director of Freshman Seminar, Constance Staley. Following this you'll learn about all the things you can do with your Lion One Card from an Ent representative, the General Manager of Food Services Russ Saunkeah, and one of our Head OWLs.

9:45-10:30a OWL group time See your OWL
Get to know the other students in your group during this time with your OWL.

10:30-12:30p Advising and Registration See your OWL
Your advisor will discuss the requirements for your program and explain how you can register yourself for classes. Then you will have time to choose your classes for fall semester and register for them. By the time you leave this session you should have your first semester schedule!

12:30-1:00p IDs (with parents and families) University Center Information Desk
Your OWL will take you to meet your guests and then you will have time to get your official UCCS Lion One Card.

1:00-2:00p Lunch (with parents and families) Berger Hall in University Center
Enjoy a delicious Mexican themed meal provided by Sodexo catering. While you eat you will have the chance to talk with faculty and staff from UCCS.

2:00-2:20p Money Matters Dwire Hall 121
During this session you will learn how to pay your UCCS bill online, how to set up an authorized payer, and find out a little on scholarships, loans, and the College Opportunity Fund from Financial Aid Counselor Margie Smith and Student Financial Services member Jesse Rochell.

2:20-2:40p Public Safety Dwire Hall 121
Director of Public Safety Steve Linhart will talk with you about staying safe on campus.

2:40-3:30p Student Life and Student Panel Dwire Hall 121
During this exciting session you will hear about all the opportunities for getting involved on campus. Then you will be able to ask questions to current students about their experiences here at UCCS.

3:30-4:00p Brief campus tour (with parents and families) Dwire Hall 121
Your OWL will again take you to meet your guests and then guide you on a short campus tour.

4:00-5:00p Resource fair, campus tours, Math Placement test (with parents and families) Upper Plaza outside University Center
You will end your day with the chance to ask any unanswered questions to office representative at the orientation resource fair. Extended campus tours will be going on during this time and will be announced in the Upper Plaza prior every 10 minutes. The Math Placement test will also be available during this time. If you need the Math Placement test talk with your OWL about its location.

4:00-5:00p Future Mountain Lion Resident Info Monarch House in Summit Village
Interested in living on-campus? Meet with Residence Life staff and learn about the different room types, application process, and see a tour room.