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Orientation

  • Student Orientation Registration

    Welcome First-Year Students!

    We are thrilled that you’re joining the Worcester State University community! One of the first steps in preparing for life as a college student at Worcester State is participating in your summer Orientation program. Our comprehensive two-part Orientation program is a great way to meet new people and get all of your questions answered before classes begin in the fall.

    First Year Orientation

    The first part of your Orientation experience is attending a two-day on-campus program. First Year Student Orientation will provide you the opportunity to meet other students, spend time getting familiar with campus, and engage with staff from various student services and campus resources.

    2022 Program Dates

    • June 20-21
    • June 23-24
    • June 27-28

    Registration will open in April

    The program is scheduled to begin with check-in at 8:30 a.m. in the Sullivan Auditorium on your chosen date, and will conclude by 6 p.m. You are required to pre-register for Orientation; no walk-up registrations will be allowed. The deadline to register is Friday, June 3. If a change needs to be made to your registration, please email orientation@worcester.edu.

    Online Orientation Module

    Following the June one-day programs, you will receive information about First Year Orientation: Online. This online module will include information about various offices, resources, and supports that are available to you during your time as a student. Through videos and interactive links, you will be able to explore information about academic life, campus citizenship, student involvement, and more. This module is a valuable resource as you prepare for beginning classes in September.

    Information for logging into the module will be sent to your Worcester State email in July. The deadline to complete First Year Orientation: Online is Friday, August 19. This program is mandatory, and can be completed at your own pace; you may exit the module at any time and when you return you will be brought to the last page you visited.

  • Important COVID-19 Safety Information for Orientation

    The Orientation program will abide by all University health and safety policies to protect students from the spread of COVID-19; this includes social distancing, mask usage, and contact tracing. A limited number of students are able to register for each session.

    All students attending Orientation are required to have a negative COVID test. This includes students who have been vaccinated. There are two options for students to provide a negative test result:

    Option 1

    Students can provide documentation from an off-site testing facility that is from the last 72 hours to the start of the program. This should be a PCR test.

    Option 2

    Students can take an on-site rapid test prior to checking in for their Orientation program. On-site testing will take place from 7:30-8:30am at the Sullivan Auditorium. Testing results must be presented prior to checking in for the in-person program. Rapid tests take up to 15 minutes, so please plan your travel time to campus accordingly if a rapid test is needed. In the event that a student tests positive via the rapid test, they will not be admitted to the program.

    Please continue to monitor your Worcester State email for updates regarding COVID safety for your Orientation program. Questions specific to testing should be directed to Paul Vernucci at pvernucci@worcester.edu or 508-929-8908.

  • Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I need to attend Orientation?

    It is mandatory that you attend a first-year orientation program. Not only is this a chance for you to make new friends and become familiar with campus, but you will also be spending a lot of time learning about your academic program and other facets of campus life.

    Do I have to participate in all portions of Orientation?

    Each portion of your Orientation program includes vital information about your time at Worcester State, and are equally important. We encourage you to take time now to plan your schedule so that you can get the most out of your one-day program. The online module portion is self-guided and can be completed according to your schedule.

    Is there a cost to attend Orientation?

    The cost of Orientation is included in the fees that you pay as an incoming first-year student.

    Can I just show up to the in person program or do I have to register?

    Registration for the in person program is mandatory this year. Unfortunately, due to gathering limits, we will be unable to accommodate any students that do not pre-register or walk up to check in.

    What Covid protocols will be taken at the in person program to ensure the safety of the students attending?

    The First Year Student Orientation Program will be following all mandatory COVID-19 procedures outlined on the Safe Return website. Masks and social distancing will be required for all participants. We have limited the number of students per session to accommodate gathering limits within classrooms as well.

    Where do I park for Orientation?

    Parking is available in the South Lot on campus, located next to the Sullivan Auditorium. Signage and Orientation Leaders will be available to help direct you to the correct lot. You can also view a campus map here.

    Will meals be provided during the in person program?

    Yes. Morning and afternoon snacks and drinks will be provided as well as lunch in the Sheehan Hall POD.

  • New Lancer Connect

    Throughout the summer, weekly videos featuring your Orientation Leaders will highlight a variety of topics including campus involvement, leadership experiences, and resident and commuter life. Feel free to watch the videos that interest you most; our Orientation Leaders will share their experiences and give you valuable tips for being successful while at Worcester State. The New Lancer Connect collection can be viewed on our YouTube channel, or via the playlist below.