Exciting, nerve-racking and utterly unforgettable, the start of college is one of the most important milestones in students’ lives. To assist incoming Bruins, UCLA offers two-day orientation sessions from July to September. Let’s explore the main activities of this summer experience, revealing how it promotes academic and personal growth.
Academic Workshops
At the beginning of New Student Orientation, or NSO, eager participants are placed into groups, typically organized by major, and assigned a New Student Advisor, or NSA. These leaders direct collective events and also hold individual appointments. There, they discuss rising freshmen’s professional ambitions and review prior academic histories, including performances on Advanced Placement exams or courses from community colleges, if applicable. They acquaint students with online resources like MyUCLA and answer any questions about the upcoming year.
New Bruins may additionally meet departmental counselors for their field of study. These instructors explain crucial preparation for particular majors, course requirements and popular career paths. Many work on campus during fall, winter and spring quarters, so orientation can connect undergraduates with a long-term academic support system.
Several presentations enhance this array of valuable information. Some outline disciplines across the humanities, life sciences, physical sciences and social sciences while displaying how to add a second major or minor. Other conferences summarize remarkable study abroad programs, research opportunities and avenues to graduate-level education. Remaining workshops unpack the best study practices and time management tips to give newcomers a window into college life.
Enrollment
Enrollment can be a stressful task for any Bruin, not just freshmen! Luckily, NSAs guide students through the essential steps.
In one-on-one conferences, NSAs propose major-related courses and plan how first-years can fulfill common requisites such as general education, foreign language and quantitative reasoning courses. Students may view a comprehensive list of degree requirements and track their current progress by running a degree audit report on the MyUCLA website.
NSAs further teach their group how to access the university-wide general catalog and class planner. With these digital tools, Bruins visualize and continually update their unique schedules. Most take around three to four courses per quarter. Specifically, cluster programs and fiat lux seminars create focused curriculums and opportunities for freshmen to bond with similar-aged classmates. Planning back-up options is vital, in case first-choice courses reach maximum capacity. NSAs supervise enrollment for the fall term, settling any concerns to ensure that the process runs smoothly.
On-Campus Activities
While students reside on the Hill, they can also explore our vast, beautiful campus. It boasts a breathtaking sight of greenery and architectural talent, neighbored by localities like Brentwood, Beverly Hills and Bel Air.
One of the most fun events at orientation is the enormous scavenger hunt competition called Carpe Noctem, which is Latin for “seize the night.” After a day of informational material, enthusiastic teams of new Bruins discover historic buildings and other hidden treasures throughout school grounds. This single experience gives incoming freshmen a threefold gift: thrilling nighttime adventures, meaningful connections with classmates and key familiarization with the academic areas and rich traditions of UCLA. The winners receive an impressive prize too!
Later, students embark on an extensive tour with their NSA and NSO group. They learn about important departments, clubs and study spots, from Wilson Plaza to the heart of South Campus. They also discover the incredible, vibrant myths of their university. Why is rubbing the Bruin Bear’s paw associated with good luck? Is there actually a body buried under the famous Janss Steps? Participate to find out!
One of the final and perhaps most memorable acts of NSO is becoming “Bruintized.” Freshmen dip their hands into the Inverted Fountain and are discouraged from touching the water again before they have completed their undergraduate career. Legend has it that breaking this custom results in postponed graduation plans. Don’t try it out!
Enriching and enjoyable, orientation provides new students a thorough introduction to their new home. Cherish every moment during this time and the amazing years to come. A new world awaits, filled with intellectual achievements, lifelong friendships and exciting eight-claps that ring throughout Westwood and beyond.
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Featured Image via Daily Bruin Archives
