Transfer Student Orientation Schedule
A Few Reminders:
- Learn more about our Special Orientation Programs.
- Email our office at orientation@usfca.edu with any questions.
- NOTE: Events and activities are subject to change. Should timing need to change, per public health guidance, we will communicate adjustments in as timely a fashion as possible.
Monday, July 29
| Event | Time | Zoom Registration | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transfer Student Pre-Orientation | 5:30 - 6:30 PM | Zoom Link | During this virtual orientation with the Center for Academic and Student Achievement (CASA), new transfer students will be given an opportunity to ask questions to current Dons and learn more about transfer resources at USF. Please Note: Transfer students and family members can also participate in the full orientation program for first-year students and families. |
Tuesday, July 30
| Event | Time | Zoom Registration | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| First-Generation College Student & Family Program | 5:30 - 6:30 PM | Zoom Link | First-Generation college students and their families will learn from current USF students, families, and administrators how to thrive in college. This virtual workshop will bring awareness to on-campus resources that support students’ holistic development and academic success. At USF, we define first-generation college students as students whose parents or guardians have not received a U.S. bachelor’s degree. Some first-generation college students may have siblings who have completed a bachelor’s degre |
Thursday, August 1
| Event | Time | Zoom Registration | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Speaking Family Program | 5:30 - 6:30 PM | Zoom Link |
Esta sesión es para familias cuyo primer idioma es el español. Conozca los recursos y consejos para ayudar a su estudiante a través de los ojos del personal, estudiantes que regresan y un miembro de la familia. Se anima que los estudiantes acompañen a sus familias. This program is for families whose first language is Spanish. Come and learn about the resources and tips for supporting your student through the eyes of the staff, returning students, and their family members. |
Thursday, August 15
| Event | Time | LOCATION | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM | McLaren Conference Center |
This session is designed to address the most common questions and concerns that international students have, as well as cover important information such as immigration regulations pertaining to your visa, academic expectations, and cultural adjustment. Mandatory for new international students. |
Friday, August 16
| Event | Time | Zoom Registration | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virtual Orientation Help Desk | 5 - 8 PM | Zoom Link | Got questions about starting at USF? Pop into our Virtual Orientation Help Desk to chat with GO Team leaders and get your questions answered about starting at USF! |
Saturday, August 17
| Event | Time | LOCATION | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Market Cafeteria | 8 AM - 8 PM | University Center, Second Floor | Whether you're settling into your new dorm or taking a break from the hustle and bustle, savor a variety of freshly prepared dishes at the cafeteria. |
| Transfer Student Check-In & Residence Hall Move-In | Assigned Move-In Times | Various Residence Halls | Welcome to USF! You should have received an assigned check-in/move-in time before your arrival. Please email share@usfca.edu for more specific information. |
| Orientation Help Desk & Welcome Center | 10 AM - 5 PM | University Center, First Floor | Welcome to USF! The USF Orientation Team and various staff will be available to assist and answer questions. |
| USF Bookstore | 11 AM - 5 PM | University Center, First Floor | More than just textbooks and sweatshirts, find everything you need for your class, your dorm, or for showing off your Dons’ pride! |
| Campus Tours (Optional) | 2 - 4 PM | Meet at University Center, First Floor | Explore our beautiful USF campus with our friendly GO Team leaders. No RSVP is needed. Guided tours are available every 30 minutes for new USF students and family members. |
| Evening Event: Night Howl & Ice Cream Social | 8 - 10 PM | Gleeson Plaza | Experience one of USF's oldest traditions—the Night Howl! Gather with your fellow new students to howl at the moon and kick off the semester with a fun and memorable celebration. Meet new friends, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and indulge in delicious IT'S-IT Ice Cream, a beloved San Francisco treat. |
Sunday, August 18
| Event | Time | LOCATION | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Market Cafeteria | 8 AM - 8 PM | University Center, Second Floor | Whether you're settling into your new dorm or taking a break from the hustle and bustle, savor a variety of freshly prepared dishes at the cafeteria. |
| Orientation Information & Help Desk | 10 AM - 2 PM | University Center, First Floor | Welcome to USF! The USF Orientation Team and various staff will be available to assist and answer questions. |
| Orientation Welcome: Intro to Student Services | 10 - 11:50 AM | McLaren Conference Center | Join other new transfer students and their family members for your official welcome to our USF community. Students will take a moment to reflect on their accomplishments and learn more about campus resources and services at USF. Mandatory for new transfer students. |
| USF Bookstore | 11 AM - 5 PM | University Center, First Floor | More than just textbooks and sweatshirts, find everything you need for your class, your dorm, or for showing off your Dons’ pride! |
| Campus Tours (Optional) | 12 - 2 PM | Meet at University Center, First Floor | Explore our beautiful USF campus with our friendly GO Team leaders. No RSVP is needed. Guided tours are available every 30 minutes for new USF students and family members. |
| Family Farewell Lunch (On Your Own) | 12 - 3 PM | University Center, Second Floor, Cafeteria | Use this time to grab lunch, reconnect with your parents & family members, create a communication plan, and make sure you are all set for the week ahead. |
| Off-Campus Social Kickoff | 1:30 - 2:30 PM | University Center, Third Floor | Join the Office of Off-Campus Living as we celebrate off-campus students. This event provides an excellent opportunity for off-campus students to meet and network with their peers, fostering new connections and a sense of community. |
| "Find Your Classes" Tour | 2 PM - 4 PM | Meet at Gleeson Plaza | It's helpful to plan your class schedule before the first day of classes. Join us on Welch Field, where GO Team leaders will guide you around campus and show you the locations of your classes for the fall, ensuring you know where to go on Tuesday! |
| Dinner (On Your Own) | 4:30 - 6 PM |
Various Locations |
Enjoy this free time to take a break, grab food, and get to know other students. |
| Koret Night | 6 - 8 PM | Koret Recreation Center | Explore Koret Health and Recreation Center with new friends, receive a complimentary t-shirt, and enjoy a guided tour. |
| Evening Event: Drag Show Night | 9 - 11 PM | War Memorial Gym at Sobrato Center | Drag Show Night is not just an event; it's an experience that celebrates diversity, creativity, and community spirit at USF. Join us for a night filled with fun, dance, and unforgettable entertainment. |
Monday, August 19
| Event | Time | Location | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Market Cafeteria | 8 AM - 9 PM | University Center, Second Floor | Whether you're settling into your new dorm or taking a break from the hustle and bustle, savor a variety of freshly prepared dishes at the cafeteria. |
| 7 Things College Students Need to Know Before Using AI/ChatGPT | 10 - 10:50 AM |
Zoom Pre-registration is required; please register here. |
Discover how AI enhances research efficiency and learning while addressing ethical concerns. Not mandatory but strongly encouraged. |
| Welcome Week Help Desk | 10 AM - 2 PM | University Center, First Floor | Got questions before you start your first day of classes? USF Orientation Staff will be available to assist you. |
| Registration Assistance | 10 AM - 2 PM | University Center, Third Floor | The Center for Academic Achievement (CASA) coaches are available to assist in navigating the online registration system. |
| New Student Convocation | 11 AM - 12 PM | St. Ignatius Church | The university president and college deans inaugurate the incoming class and welcome new and transfer students to the USF community. Students will learn the USF pledge and receive a commemorative pin designed for their entering class. Mandatory for new transfer students. |
| New Class Picture | 12 - 12:30 PM | Welch Field | Smile for your official new class photo. Please wear your USF green and gold. |
| Orientation To Your Major |
1 - 5 PM Major orientations will take place at specific times. |
Various Locations See the link above for more specific information - coming soon |
You will hear from college/school deans and faculty who will provide you with essential information about your academic major/program. Orientations will also include a section for all undeclared majors. Mandatory for new transfer students. |
| Evening Event: Student Org Lip Sync Battle | 7 - 9 PM | War Memorial Gym at Sobrato Center | Get ready for an epic showdown! Join us for the 2024 USF Lip Sync Battle, where student organizations will compete head-to-head for the coveted title of Lip Sync Champion! |
Tuesday, August 20
| Event | Time | Location | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Welcome Back Fest: Campus Resource Fair | 11:30 AM - 1 PM | Privett Plaza | Explore resources and programs at USF and San Francisco - all in one place. From academic offices to the local grocer and non-profit organizations that meet your interests, this is your chance to meet members of the community and even score some free swag. |