Boston University Freshman Orientation: A Comprehensive Guide

Boston University welcomes its incoming freshman and transfer students with a comprehensive orientation experience designed to integrate them into the BU community. This guide provides an overview of what to expect during this important transition period.

Introduction: Engaging with the BU Community

Boston University provides a reimagined, six-day orientation experience that goes beyond the standard introduction to campus and classes for its incoming freshman and transfer students. According to Jason Campbell-Foster, dean of students, this orientation is an invitation to engage deeply in BU programs and the community, transforming the way students are brought into Boston University.

A Shift in Orientation Approach

The overhaul of the orientation program has been in development since last summer. Previously, orientation was held in June, three months before classes started, which could be overwhelming for students still wrapping up high school. The new model provides a holistic view of the BU community and its resources at a time when students are more likely to retain the information. It also eliminates the need for two costly trips for families-one for orientation and another for move-in.

Campbell-Foster notes that orientations have traditionally been like instruction manuals. However, incoming Terriers now engage with BU starting in the spring. After submitting their deposits, students enroll in a required online orientation course featuring interactive videos and games contributed by various departments across campus. Hannah Pereira, director of BU’s orientation program, explains that the goal is to get important information online first.

Pre-Orientation Engagement

Midway through the summer, students can join weekly virtual sessions with their assigned orientation groups, each consisting of 20 to 25 students. This approach aims to make the on-campus experience less intimidating.

On-Campus Orientation Highlights

The 1839 Campaign

Orientation launches the 1839 Campaign, named after BU’s founding year. Students can select from a range of sessions tailored to their interests and experiences. Workshops cover topics such as getting involved on campus, time management, academic boot camps, financial literacy, and other relevant subjects.

Resources and Exploration

The week features sessions and fairs on resources, opportunities to explore campus, and time to connect over shared meals. Students live in the dorms and eat in the dining halls, allowing them to make friends, familiarize themselves with the campus geography, and navigate day-to-day essentials, such as laundry facilities.

Welcome BBQ and Activities

New students attending the orientation welcome BBQ can enjoy activities like a bounce house. The goal is to set a positive tone for the next four years and help students understand their responsibilities within the BU community and beyond.

Arts and Humanities

Following President Melissa Gilliam’s announcement to emphasize the arts across BU campuses, the BU Office for the Arts hosts a hands-on art project inspired by Howardena Pindell, a pioneering African American artist. The BU Center for the Humanities organizes a screening of The Meg at the BU Beach.

Campus-Wide Scavenger Hunt

"Scene It!" encourages exploration of BU’s public art through a campus-wide scavenger hunt. Students can snap selfies in front of unique sculptures and murals for a chance to win a prize.

Parent and Caregiver Orientation

BU Parents & Family Programs hosts “Know Before You Go,” a virtual orientation tailored for families. The program includes live Zoom sessions covering topics such as housing, campus life, and academics. These sessions are recorded for later viewing. Loring notes that this is a great way for families to learn about the support systems at BU and how they guide students.

Family Welcome Center and Pit Stop

A Family Welcome Center is available, offering light refreshments. Similar Family Pit Stop events are held at Fuller’s BU Pub.

First Year Student Outreach Project (FYSOP)

FYSOP sends students on service-based activities across Boston, focusing on service, education, and reflection. It is now integrated into orientation week for registered participants, with training and group meetings taking place on Wednesday.

Common Read Program

Students will learn about the Boston University Common Read, a program providing freshmen and transfer students with a shared reading experience. The inaugural book is Orbital by Samantha Harvey, exploring themes of human perspective, resilience, and connection through the story of astronauts on the International Space Station.

Spring Orientation Details

Welcome to Boston University! The university is excited to have new students join the vibrant community. There will be endless opportunities for growth and connection. It all starts with the Orientation experience. This year, a new, comprehensive Orientation experience is being introduced.

Read also: History of the BU Bridge

Connecting with Orientation Leaders

As a Spring student, there is an opportunity to start connecting with Orientation Leaders during the summer or fall before coming to campus.

Important Dates and Updates

The on-campus Orientation program dates for Spring Orientation will be announced in April. Check back for more updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Check the frequently asked questions page for a comprehensive list of FAQs.

Essential Steps for New Students

BU first-year students are required to complete the online New Student Housing Application to be assigned to a campus residence.
University Orientation is designed to introduce students to life at Boston University. The program includes meetings and workshops with University representatives, social events, and the opportunity to live on campus.
To register for courses, it is important to understand course selection within the context of the degree program.
Advanced credits may include AP, IB, A-levels, or credit earned from another college or university. To determine if this credit may apply to the ENG program, reference the provided advanced credit guides.
Beginning in mid-June, students may begin registering for Fall semester courses online and are strongly encouraged to register as soon as possible.
It is each student's responsibility to abide by the rules of the Academic Code of Conduct throughout their stay at Boston University. Students should read and affirm that they will abide by these rules.
Academic Advisors will be available at University Orientation to help guide students through first-semester registration.

Orientation Schedule

Sessions begin in June and run through August. Orientation is 3 days, beginning on Sunday and going through Tuesday.

*Session 7 is available to all International students, including those from American Samoa, Guam, and Puerto Rico.

Reservations for the Parent and Family program are completed by students at the same time they complete their own Orientation registration.

Students will need to set up BC 2-Step Verification to register for Orientation. BC 2-Step Verification uses Duo Security technology to confirm student identity using a second device such as a mobile phone.

Check-In and Housing

Check-in is a process that will last approximately 15 minutes. Please plan your day accordingly, so that new students may arrive on time. Students will receive their nametag and Orientation housing assignment during Check-In on Sunday. Registered parents/guardians will also receive a nametag during Check-In. Housing is not provided for parents/guardians.

Orientation Schedule Details

The schedule includes a liturgy in the Catholic tradition, welcoming remarks, and an introductory evening program. On Monday and Tuesday, the Student Program will run independently from the Parent / Family Program.

Important Housing Notes

During Sessions 1-6, students are required to stay on campus in provided housing and are not to leave campus at any time. Students attending Session 7 will be able to check into their academic year housing assignment the afternoon of Saturday, or prior to 3:00 pm on Sunday. More information and move-in sign-up information will be communicated by the Office of Residential Life over the summer.

It is highly recommended that international students and those traveling a long distance arrange their travel so that they may move-in on Saturday. Arriving on Saturday will provide time to get settled and travel to local stores to acquire dormitory necessities and personal items, prior to the start of Orientation on Sunday afternoon.

During Sessions 7, students are required to stay in their fall housing assignment and are not to leave campus at any time.

Messina College Orientation

Messina College Orientation will be held immediately following residence hall Move-in for students. The Orientation program is designed to introduce Messina College students to the people and resources that will help students get off to a great start at Boston College. The program will provide an overview of the academic experience, introductions to important university leaders and Messina College administrators, and create opportunities for students to connect with their Orientation Leader and fellow Messina students.

All Messina students must register for the Orientation program.

In First Year Experience, the university recognizes that families come in all shapes and sizes. However, campus space limitations require all students to a maximum of two guests for the program. The Orientation program will include a Welcome Address & Luncheon, introduction for Messina College academics and resources, and community time with orientation leaders.

Transfer Orientation

All of the program details outlined above apply to the Transfer Orientation experience. During Transfer Orientation, transfer students will live on campus in University housing. This offers a great opportunity to meet and socialize with other new transfer students. Please be advised that Transfer Orientation is a mandatory program.

International Student Orientation

As international students, the university realizes that many will be traveling a great distance to get to Boston. It is strongly encouraged to arrive on campus on Saturday, before University Orientation begins on Sunday. Arriving on Saturday will give students time to get settled into their residence hall room and catch up on jetlag. It will also provide the opportunity to travel to local stores to purchase bedding, personal items, toiletries and anything else students may not be able to pack in their luggage.

Beginning on Tuesday, immediately following the close of University Orientation, International Student Orientation will begin. It is a separate program run by the Office of International Students and Scholars and students will receive more information from them about the program later in the summer. Please be aware that International Student Orientation is required for all international first year, transfer students, and exchange students.

A three-day Parent and Family Orientation will run concurrently with the Student Orientation program. This program is designed to support the adjustment process that occurs when a student leaves home for college and to familiarize parents and guardians with the resources that are available within the Boston College community. Parents and guardians will hear from Boston College students, faculty, and administrators about this exciting and challenging transition. Through panels, discussions, and informal conversations you will have the opportunity to learn more about academic expectations and community standards. During this time, offices and services across campus will be open for consultation.

The Parent / Family Program is not required, and attendees are welcome to come and go from the program as they wish or require. Due to space limitations, students are only able to have up to two guests attend orientation with them.

On Sunday of Orientation, the Parent / Family and Student Programs will operate together. Beginning Monday morning, the Parent / Family Program will run independently from the Student Program.

Upon its conclusion, students attending Sessions 1-6 will need to return to their residence hall to pick up their bags and drop off their room cards before leaving campus. For more information on the Parent Program, please download the BC Welcome App by searching “Boston College Welcome” in your app store, or by clicking here for the iTunes download or here for the Google Play download. Once downloaded and installed, please select and download the "BC Parent Orientation" guide within the app.

Lodging is not provided for attendees of the Parent Program. A list of nearby hotels and accommodations is available here.

Orientation registration will open and must be completed by May. However, it is recommended to register for Orientation as soon as possible, so that new students may choose from all available Orientation sessions for which they are eligible. At each Orientation session, a three-day Parent / Family Program will run concurrently with the Student Program.

During Sessions 1-6 students will stay in Thomas More Apartments on Lower Campus.

It is highly recommended that international students and those flying or driving a long distance arrange their travel so that they may move-in on Saturday, as opposed to the Sunday morning prior to Orientation Check-In. Lodging is not provided for attendees of the Parent Program. A list of nearby hotels and accommodations is available.

Due to limitations on space, students may register no more than two parents or guardians for Orientation.

Students will register for their first semester of courses on Tuesday of Orientation alongside a faculty member who has guided them through a personalized and thorough group-based academic advising process the day prior.

The two programs do not reunite until the conclusion of Orientation on Tuesday. Ultimately, Orientation is designed to give students and parents separate, but complementary, experiences. Students may not leave campus during Orientation and must attend all components of the program.

All meals served during Orientation are buffet style and the included options are meant to satisfy a variety of palettes, allergies, and restrictions. If you find that the options in the buffet are not suitable during any Orientation meal, please find a representative from Dining Services who staff each meal. They will be able to accommodate any need within minutes.

To take the “T” from Logan Airport, take the Silver Line to South Station and then take the Red Line to Park Street. Then, take the Boston College Green Line outbound train (Line B to “Boston College”). Stay on the train until the last stop. For a faster route, you can pay for a Logan Express bus from the airport to Hynes Convention Center. At Hynes, take Green Line B to Boston College Station.

There is a mandatory Orientation fee set by the Board of Trustees, which will be charged to the fall semester bill.

As students begin their transition to BU, parents might be asking themselves a lot of questions about student life and their involvement. It will all be covered in the Parent & Family orientation program this December. Comprised of on-line Know Before You Go sessions, the program gives parents an opportunity to learn about academics, life on campus, and belonging at BU.

In addition, parents are invited to take the Orientation Online Course. Another great way to stay informed is to join the Terrier Family Network. As a member, you’ll have access to a portal for important updates, a calendar, and news about the university.

What to Bring

Comfortable clothing (sneakers, sweater or rain jacket, and athletic apparel for Monday evening).
If you cannot bring a computer or tablet, one will be provided during advising and registration.

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