What to Expect at New Student Orientation? This Year’s Leaders Share Advice

The University of Scranton's Orientation Team Leaders will play a key role in welcoming members of the Class of 2030 as they arrive later this month for New Student Orientation.

Students and their families who attend one of the four sessions - June 22-23, June 25-26, June 29-30 and July 1-2 - will meet classmates, faculty and staff members and administrators covering virtually all areas of campus life. You have questions - about academics, arts, athletics, service, campus life, spiritual life, food, off-campus entertainment and everything in between - they'll have answers.

The four Orientation Team Leaders will have answers, too, providing guidance and support, drawing on their own experience to help new students adjust.

We caught up with this year's Orientation Team Leaders as they imparted some words of wisdom to the newest Royals.

Mary McAlpin, a theology and religious studies major on the pre-med track from Newtown: "I would encourage new students to be very open to the whole experience, to put themselves out there. This is really your first exposure to your new class and your new life at Scranton. So, take advantage of everything, get out there, talk to people, start making connections. Doing those things will only help you grow once you step on campus in the fall."

Michael Mancini, a nursing major from Trumbull, Connecticut: "I think the most important part is having an open mind and living the experience for what it is. Take your time to get to know our beautiful campus and also the great people you're going to be around. If you do that, you will feel more comfortable and more familiar when you get here in the fall."

Gavin Kovaleski, a theology and philosophy double major from Dunmore: "People at orientation are more than willing to help you in every single facet to ease your college transition. Other new students and friends are also coming in with an open mind - so look to meet new people and make your next four years the best four years that you could possibly make, together."

Michael Zipay, a mathematical sciences and philosophy major from Archbald: "Don't be afraid to take on any opportunity that you're given. Embrace it. There's so much for you to do at Scranton. We'd love to see you take advantage of it."

Students and their families are urged to visit the University's website and check their emails for updates regarding programming.