Overview

From the months before you arrive on campus through your entire first year, the Office of Orientation and New Student Programs offers unique activities and events to help you feel prepared as you begin your Rochester journey.

Photo of a student sitting on the steps of a building on campus looking at their laptop on their lap

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Rochester Ready

The first part of your orientation is Rochester Ready, a self-paced online program designed to introduce you to University academics and student life ahead of your arrival to campus. Through webinars, videos, online modules, and communications, we work to ensure that your transition to the URochester is as smooth as possible.

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Photo of the incoming students in the shape of an R, taken during Fall Welcome Week 2022

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Welcome Week

The second part of your orientation is Welcome Week, a unique set of in-person events that takes place directly before classes begin to welcome you and your family to campus, connect with fellow incoming students and their families, and celebrate some of our unique University of Rochester traditions.

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Students and University staff pose in front of a viewpoint at Chimney Bluffs State Park during a day trek

Early Arrival Program

First-Year Orientation Treks

URochester's First-Year Orientation Outing Treks program (affectionately called the FOOT program) provides first-year students the opportunity to get to know campus ahead of Welcome Week and connect with classmates by exploring the area's natural wonders.

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Academic year programs

Learn about the first-year programs and classes that can help you navigate the many opportunities available on campus and better define your individual URochester experience.

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