Student Orientation

REGISTRATION FOR FALL 2023 IS NOW OPEN

All new students, including transfer students, need to register for orientation.  During your in person orientation sessions, our faculty, staff, and current students share information to help you successfully transition into the Saint Mary’s community. 

Each session provides critical information, introducing you to our academic programs, connecting to resources, and learning more about the services available.

See the first year student program schedule below.

See also: Transfer Student Orientation Program | Guest Orientation

First Year Orientation Program Schedule

9:00-9:20 AM
WELCOME TO SAINT MARY'S!
Soda Center, Moraga Room
Join us for a warm welcome to our Saint Mary's community from College leaders!

9:20-10:00 AM
INTRODUCTION TO ACADEMICS
Soda Center, Moraga Room
Learn about the Saint Mary's core curriculum and gain an understanding of the College's general education
requirements.

10:00-10:30 AM
GAELS WITH GAELS
Soda Center, Dante Hall
Spend time with your Orientation Leader and meet other new Gaels.

10:45 AM-11:30 AM
SPECIAL ACADEMIC PROGRAMS, RESOURCES, AND SUPPORT
Dante Hall
This is your opportunity to learn more about unique programs, opportunities, and services that support your
academic success.

Choose the presentation below that you wish to attend.

High Potential Program
Dante 204
The High Potential (HP) Program/TRIO Student Support
Services provide access to education for dedicated students from
traditionally underrepresented groups in higher education
and is designed to foster student success by drawing on the
strengths and resiliency of first-generation and/or low-income
scholars as they transition from high school and beyond.

Integral Program
Dante 213
Learn about the Integral Program, Saint Mary's Great Books
curriculum! Meet current students, alums, and professors as
they talk about classes, careers after graduation, and answer
questions.

4 + 1 Pathways
Dante 218
Are you interested in a career where you can make an impact
in the world? Learn how you can maximize your degree with
one of our 4+1 pathways: (1)BA/BS + Single Subject Teacher
Education Credential + Master Degree in Teaching; (2) BA/BS
+ Masters Degree in Leadership and Organizational
Development.

STEM + Health Sciences
Dante 215
Learn about majors in science and mathematics and starting
your first year on the right path.

Federal Work Study/On Campus Jobs
Dante 217
Learn about on campus job opportunities and how to utilize
Federal Work Study Funds.

Study Abroad
Dante 220
Saint Mary's offers over 20 study abroad and exchange
programs and destinations. Come learn about how to
begin to see the world.

Success Coaches and Support
Dante 222
Success Coaches collaborate and partner with students
as they navigate their journey through their college
years. Together they create action plans and set goals.
The presentation will also introduce students to the
Student Disability Services office, a resource students
with diagnosed disabilities or medical conditions can use
for support during their time at SMC.

11:30 AM-1:00 PM
ACADEMIC DISCOVERY FAIR AND LUNCH
Ferroggiaro Quad and Oliver Hall
During the Academic Discovery Fair, you will meet with faculty from various academic departments, talk about
your interests and learn more about the academic opportunities available. Grab lunch with your Orientation Group!

1:00-1:45 PM
PRE-ENROLLMENT QUESTIONNAIRE
Garaventa Hall
After you've had the opportunity to learn about programs at the Academic Discovery Fair, you will have the chance to
complete your Pre-Enrollment Questionnaire (PEQ). The information gather in the PEQ will assist our pre-registration
faculty in placing you in your fall classes.

1:45-2:15 PM
GAEL HEALTH & WELLNESS
Garaventa Hall
All new students are required to submit a Medical History Form and proof of immunizations. Orientation Leaders
will help you through this process.

2:25-3:00 PM
LIVING ON CAMPUS
De La Salle Hall (Hagerty Lounge), Galileo Hall Room 201, Galileo Hall Room 202
Welcome Home! Learn about what to expect when living on campus and joining our vibrant community.

3:15-4:00 PM
FINANCING THE COMING YEARS
Soda Center, Moraga Room
The Office of Financial Aid and the Business Office will assist you and your guests in explaining the financial aid
process, billing process, and payment options.

4:00-4:15 PM
WRAP UP & CLOSING
Soda Center, Moraga Room
End your day with tips from College leadership and review the next steps. Welcome Home!

4:15 PM
OPTIONAL RESIDENCE HALL TOUR
Leave from Soda Center Plaza.

Tips for Success

GET INVOLVED
Saint Mary's has more than 50 student organizations and Campus Recreation offers a variety of fitness classes and intramurals. You can learn more about ways to get involved at the Fall Involvement Fair on Wednesday, August 30, 12-2pm.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF YOUR RESOURCES
A plethora of programs and services are available to support your transition, including your Success Coach and Academic Advisor, as well as campus departments such as Career & Professional Development and Student Involvement & Leadership.

SPEND TIME ON CAMPUS
You can feel connected to the campus community by hanging out in the Quad, grabbing a cup of coffee at the Coffee Shop or enjoying some food and drinks at the 1928 Pub.

International Student Orientation

In addition to attending New Student Orientation, all international students are required to attend the International Student Orientation. Workshops offered during this special orientation will assist with your transition to new surroundings and a new culture.

Through interactive workshops and presentations, you will be introduced to concepts of intercultural communication and immigration concepts to build a strong foundation to help you settle into your new life at Saint Mary’s. During orientation, you will be involved in activities to help you learn about life as an international student at Saint Mary's. You'll also learn about the F-1 student visa, how to maintain your status, as well as how to work in the US.

For more information regarding International Student Orientation, visit the Center for International Programs.

One-Time Orientation Fee: $300 - The Orientation Fee is applied directly to a student's account and covers all costs associated with orientation, administrative costs, materials, and staffing.