At Orientation you will have the opportunity to:

Meet with academic representatives and an advisor
Representatives and an academic advisor will help answer your questions about your major and help you plan your fall course schedule.

Register for classes
You will leave Orientation with your class schedule for the fall in hand!!

Experience residence hall life
By staying in a residence hall, you'll get a feel for the campus in a relaxed way and get to know your future "home away from home."

Find out about student services
Discover the resources, services and programs that are available to you as a new hawk!

Learn about important social issues
You will experience theatrical programs and workshops that cover many important aspects of your life outside the classroom.

Meet your Orientation Leader/Peer Mentor
Your Orientation Leader (OL) will help guide you through orientation and will be an invaluable resource by serving as your peer mentor for your first year at New Paltz.

Spend time with other future students
Meet your peers! You will be in the company of your future classmates and friends.

Attend special social events
To help you enjoy your visit with us, we have special social evening programs planned for you including a comedy show, the lip sync competition and late night activities!

Select your room assignment
You will leave Orientation knowing where you will live in the fall.

First-Year Interest Groups (FIGS)

First year students can choose to sign up for a “FIG”, where you take two courses in common with other first-year students. The First-Year Initiative (called FYI by students) is a FIG that is also a living/learning community with 130 students living in a common residence hall. Materials about these programs will be sent to you this spring, and applications are considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Be sure to return the application form(s) as soon as you receive the packet.

Placement Exams

Almost every student will take at least one placement exam on the first afternoon of the program. In addition to the English assessment, students continuing to study French or Spanish will take a language exam as well. Descriptions of these exams will be sent in a confirmation packet two weeks prior to your program. Before the exams, the Dean of Student Advising will answer questions about AP and college credit that may apply.
If you need extended testing time, please contact The Disability Resource Center at 845.257.3020

Freshman Reading

When you attend Orientation you will receive information about your summer reading, including a study guide. This reading assignment will be discussed during your first week of classes.