DiscoveRIT Pre-Orientation Program

DiscoveRIT is an assortment of optional pre-orientation programs (POP) for incoming freshmen and transfer students. Each program has a different focus and gives students an opportunity to discover RIT and the surrounding communities; become familiar with faculty, staff and resources at RIT; and make new friends. DiscoveRIT participants move in early (Saturday, August 25, 2012) and have fun in small groups. Check out the DiscoveRIT website to learn more.

Freshman Orientation

Students starting at RIT with no prior college credit are automatically registered for Freshman Orientation and assigned to small groups mentored by an Orientation Assistant. Freshman Orientation is five days of programs and activities that will help new students get comfortable on campus, become aware of RIT's resources and services, and make connections with other students, faculty, and staff. All freshmen are expected to attend the full Orientation program.

Transfer Orientation

Unlike Freshman Orientation, Transfer Orientation is optional. However, it is in your best interest to get involved and learn all you can about RIT’s resources and services and make connections with other students. Not to mention, the Orientation Fee is mandatory whether you attend Orientation or not. Transfer students have two Orientation options – a one-day program in July or a five-day program in August. Registration is required for both programs so be on the lookout for the registration dates.

Family Orientation

We appreciate the connection that families have with their students and with the university and we recognize the importance of providing an orientation that meets their needs. Our Family Orientation is held the Wednesday and Thursday before fall quarter classes start (it is optional of course). This program is separate from the students' orientation and includes an introduction by the senior vice president for Student Affairs, open houses, special sessions with RIT experts, a president's meet and mingle, dean's meetings, and our signature Convocation for New Students and Families.

International Students: International Student Services (ISS) provides a special orientation for new international students in addition to the above programs. All new international students are required to attend. Visit the ISS website for further information.

NTID Students: NTID freshmen and transfer students are required to attend a two-week orientation known as the Summer Vestibule Program (SVP). NTID-supported BS students will be scheduled for an NTID Support Service Orientation (NSSO) workshop during RIT’s Orientation program. Visit the NTID SVP website for further information.

Graduate Students: Graduate students should contact the Dean's Office of Graduate Studies at (585) 475-2127 or visit their website for information about graduate student orientation.