LOCAL

Virtual orientation kicks off for new Iowa State University students

Kiley Wellendorf
Ames Tribune
This week, new students attending Iowa State University this fall will be introduced to campus virtually this summer through online orientation. Photo by Nirmalendu Majumdar/Ames Tribune

Beginning this week, new students who have enrolled at Iowa State University for the fall semester will be introduced to campus virtually through online orientation.

Though the program is different from in-person orientation, students will complete “several hours worth of orientation modules at their own speed,” according to information from ISU. The virtual experience will take place between June 1 and 26.

Sarah Merrill, director of new student programs at ISU’s Office of Admissions said online orientation has been offered for transfer students since February.

“The decision to move summer 2020 orientation programs online was made in mid-March to ensure the health and safety of new students, their guests and Iowa State University faculty and staff,” Merrill said in an email to the Tribune.

New student orientation is coordinated by the Office of New Students Programs, Merrill said, but “it is a true collaboration across all parts of Iowa State University — from academic affairs to student health and wellness to financial aid.” Additionally, students will be able to have virtual academic advising appointments.

“While online orientation doesn’t offer students and their families the opportunity to come to campus for an in-person experience, we are committed to providing students with the knowledge they need to be successful during their transition to Iowa State,” Merrill said.

Prior to registering for fall coursework, new students are expected to complete the online orientation, according to Merrill, and new students will continue to hear from the Office of New Student Programs throughout the summer.

“We will continue to engage students virtually through July and August and are planning for the Destination Iowa State kickoff experience before classes begin,” Merrill said. “We are looking forward to engaging the Cyclone Aide orientation leaders in those interactions — connecting new students with experienced students.

“And, we hope online orientation continues to be a resource — students will have access to the information throughout their first semester at Iowa State.”

In August, students can further make connections and become familiar with ISU through the “Destination Iowa State program,” according to Merrill. According to the Office of Admissions, residence halls are scheduled to open both Aug. 18 and 19, and Destination Iowa State is slated to begin Aug. 20 and last through Aug. 22.

“We know orientation positively impacts student success and retention by exposing students to campus resources, learning about their academic programs and preparing them to navigate campus,” Merrill said.