First-Year Family Orientation Schedule
Family Orientation is optional and follows a separate schedule from the student orientation program. Parents and family members are encouraged to choose their own adventure by attending the events and activities that feel most meaningful to them. Students will follow their own Orientation schedule, which includes a mix of mandatory and optional events designed to help them build community, make connections, and get to know USF.
A Few Reminders:
- Register Here for First-Year Orientation
- 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 as quickly as possible.
Thursday, July 30
| Event | Time | Zoom Registration | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transfer Student Pre-Orientation Webinar | 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM | Presentation 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. |
Monday, August 3
| Event | Time | Zoom Registration | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| First-Generation College Student & Family Program | 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM | Zoom Meeting 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. USF defines 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 degree. |
Tuesday, August 4
| Event | Time | Zoom Registration | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Speaking Family Program | 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM | Zoom Meeting 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. |
Friday, August 14
| Event | Time | Registration | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virtual Orientation Help Desk | 5 - 7 PM | Zoom Meeting Link | Do you have questions before Move-In Day or Orientation? Pop into our Virtual Orientation Help Desk to chat with GO Team leaders and get your questions answered about arriving to campus. |
Wednesday, August 19
| Event | Time | LOCATION | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Market Cafeteria | 7 AM - 9 PM | University Center, Second Floor | Whether you're helping your student settle into their new dorm or taking a break from the hustle and bustle, savor a variety of freshly prepared dishes at the cafeteria. |
| Orientation Help Desk & Welcome Center | 8 AM - 4 PM | McLaren Conference Center | Welcome to USF! The USF Orientation Team and various staff will be available to assist and answer questions. |
| New Student Check-In & Residence Hall Move-In | 8 AM - 4 PM | McLaren Conference Center | Your student should have received an assigned check-in/move-in time before arrival. Look for the Get Oriented (GO) Team in green jackets to help guide you throughout the weekend. |
| Sobrato Hospitality Suite | 8 AM - 4 PM | Sobrato Club, War Memorial Gym | Swing by the our family hospitality suite for coffee, tea, and water as you ease into your day at USF. Enjoy freshly brewed French roast coffee, including regular and decaffeinated options, along with hot water and an assortment of herbal and specialty teas. Later in the day, stop back by between 1 - 3 PM for mimosas on us and a selection of light snacks. |
| USF Bookstore | 9 AM - 6 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! |
The Cultural Centers Open House | 1 PM - 6 PM | University Center, 411 & 412 | Stop by the Intercultural Center or Gender & Sexuality Center to see what our spaces have to offer! Our community centers include two lounges for hanging out with friends and engaging in events that explore social issues and identity. Whether you're looking for a space to study, take a nap, or find community: you belong here. |
| Umoja: Black Community Welcome | 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM | Koret Lodge, Upper Campus | Join us for an engaging and inclusive gathering that celebrates the Black student experience at USF. All students and their families are invited to attend, connect, and build community through intercultural learning. Light refreshments will be available. Pre-registration is required for this event! |
The Learning, Writing, and Speaking Centers (LWSC) Open House | 2 PM - 5 PM | Gleeson Library, Geschke Center, Lower Level G03 | Explore the Learning, Writing, and Speaking Centers! Join us at our Open House to meet our friendly team and learn about our free academic support services - including writing assistance, course-specific peer tutoring, academic skills coaching, and public speaking support. We're here to help you succeed at USF! All students and families are welcome. |
| International Parent & Family Welcome Reception | 3 PM - 4:30 PM | Gleeson Library, Monihan Atrium | Join us for a warm reception honoring families who traveled from outside the U.S. to help their students settle in at USF. Meet the Office of International Student & Scholar ServicesISSS staff, faculty, and other international families. All students and their families are welcome to attend, connect, and build community through intercultural learning. Light refreshments will be available. Pre-registration is required for this event! |
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) Open House | 3 PM - 5 PM | Gillson Hall, Lower Level | As the new academic year begins, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) invites students, families, faculty, and staff to stop by our Open House! Come meet our caring team, learn about the mental health services we offer, and discover the various ways we help support students in reaching their educational, personal, and emotional goals. Whether you are curious about counseling, want to connect with our supportive staff, or simply wish to stop by and explore our space, all are welcome. Let's talk about wellness, build community, and support one another on our USF journey. |
Center for Academic and Student Achievement (CASA) Open House | 3 PM - 5 PM | University Center, Third Floor | Stop by the Center for Academic and Student Achievement (CASA) to meet the team that’s here to support your academic journey at USF! Learn how CASA coaches can help you set goals, navigate your major, and stay on track for graduation. Whether you have questions or just want to say hi, we’d love to welcome you to the Hilltop! |
| Student Disability Services (SDS) Open House | 3 PM - 5 PM | Gleeson Library, Geschke Center, Lower Level G20 | Visit the Student Disability Services open house to meet the SDS team and learn how they support equal access across academic and student life at USF. Students and families can ask questions about accommodations, the intake process, and campus resources that help students navigate their USF experience with care and confidence. |
| University Ministry (UM) Open House | 3 PM - 6 PM | Toler Hall, Lower Level 122 | The University of San Francisco is a Catholic Jesuit university that welcomes people of all faiths and spiritual backgrounds. University Ministry is here to support your personal journey - whether you're Catholic, from another religious tradition, or exploring spirituality for the first time. As part of our faith community, we offer opportunities to grow in faith, community, and purpose, including: Come visit our University Ministry Open House to meet our team, ask questions, and discover how we can support you during your time at USF. No matter your religion, beliefs, or identity - you belong here. |
Health Promotion Services (HPS) Open House | 3 PM - 6 PM | University Center, Fifth Floor Lounge | Join Health Promotion Services (HPS) at our Open House to learn how we support your various dimensions of health and wellness at USF. Pick up some free wellness supplies, learn how to access healthcare, and get involved in our educational events and workshops. HPS is here to help you succeed by supporting your well-being every step of the way. |
| Campus Tours | 4 PM - 6 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. |
| Many Waters: Asian, Asian American, & Pacific Islander Community Welcome | 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM | Koret Lodge | Join the Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Center for a special welcome event celebrating community and connection. Meet fellow students, staff, faculty, and alumni, and learn about resources and leadership opportunities at USF. This gathering invites all students and their families to connect, build community, and experience a sense of belonging through intercultural learning. Light refreshments will be provided. Pre-registration is required for this event! |
| Unidad: Latiné/x Community Welcome | 6 PM - 7 PM | McLaren Complex | Celebrate the rich and vibrant Latiné/x culture at USF. This gathering invites all students and their families to connect, build community, and experience a sense of belonging through intercultural learning. Light refreshments will be provided. Pre-registration is required for this event! |
| New Student & Family Orientation Welcome | 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM | War Memorial Gym at Sobrato Center | Join other new students and families for your official welcome to our USF community from USF President Aceves and your orientation welcome team. Families will take a moment to reflect on the accomplishments of their students and learn what to expect from orientation. Mandatory for new first-year students. |
| New Family Wine & Cheese Social Hour | 8:30 PM - 10 PM | McLaren Complex
| Join us in a warm and inviting community to connect with fellow new families. It's first-come, first-served for a delightful experience of refreshments and delectable small bites to unwind after a full day. Pre-registration is required for this event! |
Thursday, August 20
| Event | Time | LOCATION | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Market Cafeteria | 7 AM - 9 PM | University Center, Second Floor | Whether you're helping your student settle into their new dorm or taking a break from the hustle and bustle, savor a variety of freshly prepared dishes at the cafeteria. |
| Orientation Help Desk | 9 AM - 2 PM | University Center, First Floor | Welcome to USF! The USF Orientation Team will be available to assist and answer questions. |
| Family Workshop #1: Navigating Food Allergies & Meal Plans | 9 AM - 9:50 AM 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM | University Center, Second Floor, Cafeteria | Transitioning to college marks a significant step. Managing a set meal plan on your own and addressing food allergies independently can be challenging. With preparation, education, and support, you can thrive while safeguarding your health, embracing newfound freedoms, and managing your money. Stop by and meet with our Resident District Manager, Allen Plouffe, to plan and learn about the tips and tricks to managing a set meal plan, ways you can stay healthy, and tour the kitchen facility. This workshop runs twice. If this session is full, please attend the other. |
| Taller para Familias #2: Apoyando a su Estudiante de Primera Generación | 10:30 AM - 11:20 AM | Sala Berman | Únase a nosotros para una conversación sobre las experiencias únicas de los estudiantes universitarios de primera generación. Conozca maneras prácticas de apoyar la transición de su estudiante, conectarse con los recursos del campus y crear una red con otras familias. |
| School of Management (SOM): Dean's Family Welcome | 10:30 AM - 11:20 AM | Malloy Hall, Madonna Lounge & Tarantino Plaza | Come meet with the SOM dean, faculty, and staff from your student's school. Refreshments will be provided. Pre-registration is required for this event! |
| USF Bookstore | 10 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 school pride! |
| Family Workshop #3: Community of Care | 10:30 AM - 11:20 AM 11:30 AM - 12:20 PM | Fromm Complex, Maraschi Room | Come learn about resources on campus available to you and your student to help maintain a safe and healthy lifestyle at USF. You will meet representatives from the following offices: Office of the Dean of Students, Office of Community Living, Department of Public Safety, Health Promotion Services (HPS), and the Office of Student Conduct, Rights and Responsibilities (OSCRR). This workshop runs twice. If this session is full, please attend the other. |
| Family Workshop #4: Together We Rise: First Generation Family Info Session | 11:30 AM - 12:20 PM | Fromm Complex, Berman Room | This interactive info session is designed for the families of first generation college students to better understand the college experience and how to support student success. We will explore the unique strengths first gen students bring to campus, discuss challenges and ways for families to share support. Families will leave with resources and a strong sense of how to partner in their student's educational journey. |
| Campus Tours | 11 AM - 1 PM | 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 Workshop #5: Supporting Student Academic Success | 11:30 AM - 12:20 PM 1:30 PM - 2:20 PM | Fromm Complex, Xavier Room | Learn how to support your student's academic excellence. The Center for Academic and Student Achievement (CASA), Student Disability Services (SDS), University Registrar, and the Learning, Writing and Speaking Centers (LWSC) will offer insight on how students can take advantage of resources at USF to develop helpful habits, lower their stress, and meet all of their academic goals. You'll also learn about the privacy of your student's records and what you need to know about FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act). This workshop runs twice. If this session is full, please attend the other. |
| Family Workshop #6: Mental Health and Wellness | 11:30 AM - 12:20 PM 1:30 PM - 2:20 PM | Fromm Complex, Maier Room | CAPS clinicians will provide an overview of services available for the mental health needs of USF students and will offer some suggestions and guidance around how families can support students as they make the transition to the college experience. This workshop runs twice. If this session is full, please attend the other. |
| School of Nursing & Health Professions (SONHP): Dean's Family Welcome | 1 PM - 1:50 PM | University Center, Third Floor | Come meet with the SONHP dean, faculty, and staff from your student's school. Refreshments will be provided. Pre-registration is required for this event! |
| Sibling Orientation | 1 PM - 3 PM | Cowell Hall, Room 106 | Sibling Orientation gives siblings of new USF students a chance to have some fun, meet new friends, explore campus, and learn more about what makes USF special. Through games and hands-on activities, they’ll also have time to hang out and write a special note to their sibling as they get ready to start college. RSVP here to join us for this special program! |
| College of Arts & Sciences (CAS): Dean's Family Welcome | 1:30 PM - 2:20 PM | Kalmanovitz Hall, Atrium | Come meet with the dean, faculty, and staff from your student's college. Refreshments will be provided. Pre-registration is required for this event! |
| Family Workshop #7: From Curriculum to Career: How a USF Education Leads to Excellent Internship and Job Opportunities | 1:30 PM - 2:20 PM 2:30 PM - 3:20 PM | Fromm Complex, Berman Room | Career Services is a friendly staff of well connected professionals who are excited to work with students to explore and launch their career path, starting from their first year on campus. Learn the many innovative ways we get students' careers ready to interact with Bay Area employers who want to hire USF Dons. This workshop runs twice. If this session is full, please attend the other. |
| Family Workshop #8: Families in Transition | 1:30 PM - 2:20 PM 2:30 PM - 3:20 PM | Fromm Complex, Maraschi Room | As a family prepares to send a student off to college, it marks a significant transition that affects everyone involved. This pivotal moment sparks discussions on how best to provide support throughout this thrilling new chapter. In this engaging workshop, a student panel, led by Dr. Shannon Gary, Vice President of Student Life, will openly discuss the invaluable support their own families offered, contributing to their flourishing journey at USF. This workshop runs twice. If this session is full, please attend the other. |
| Family Workshop #9: The Places They'll Go: Study Abroad | 2:30 PM - 3:20 PM | Fromm Hall, Xavier Room | With over 80 study abroad programs to choose from in more than 40 countries, your student has much to explore and learn during their time at USF! In this session, the study abroad team will help you be part of the study abroad journey by going over the right term to go, managing finances, research and internship opportunities, and more. |
| New Student & Family Welcome Mass | 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM | St. Ignatius Church | Members of any or no religious affiliation are invited to join USF President Aceves, at this special welcome Mass. Open to all new students and families; attendance is encouraged but not required. |
| Family Mini Carnival | 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM | Welch Field & Gleeson Plaza | Wrap up the day at our annual Family Carnival. Stop by for food, music, activities, and some time to hang out with other new students and families. We’ll also have therapy dogs on hand if you want to take a break, relax, and get in a few puppy cuddles before the day ends. |
| Gleeson Fall Open House | 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM | Gleeson Library | Explore Gleeson Library during our Fall Open House with a guided, interactive tour featuring hands-on stops, conversations with librarians and staff, and a behind-the-scenes look at the spaces and services that support student success. |
| South Asian Student & Family Reception | 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM | Tarantino Plaza (Malloy Hall Courtyard) | Students and their families are invited to join us for a casual Meet & Greet with university leaders, members of USF's faculty and staff, and peers. Event is hosted by Opinder Bawa, Vice President & CIO, and Anastasia Vrachnos, Vice Provost of Global Education, Immersions, and Strategic Initiatives. Light appetizers and refreshments will be served. All are welcome. |
| Student & Family Farewell Dinner (On Your Own) | 6:30 PM - until | Various Locations | Please use this free time to grab dinner, connect with your student, create a communication plan, and make sure they are all set for the journey ahead. |
Monday, August 24
| Event | Time | LOCATION | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Student Convocation | 11 AM - 12 PM | Livestream | Students will join their peers for their formal welcome to USF! We will take a moment to celebrate their accomplishments and journey to get to USF. In addition, students will learn the USF pledge and receive a commemorative pin designed for their class. |