First-Year 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 as quickly 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. 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.

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.

Friday, August 9

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 10

Event Time LOCATION DESCRIPTION
The Market Cafeteria 8 AM - 9:30 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 Help Desk 9 AM - 5 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 10 AM - 4 PM McLaren Conference Center You should have received an assigned check-in/move-in time before arrival. Look for the Get Oriented (GO) Team in green shirts/jackets to help guide you throughout the week.
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) 1 - 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.
Black Community Welcome 1 - 3 PM Kalmanovitz Amphitheatre The Black Community Welcome is more than just an event; it's an experience that embodies the essence of unity, respect, and empowerment. Be a part of this unforgettable gathering that marks the beginning of your journey within the Black Community at USF. Light appetizers and refreshments will be provided. Pre-registration is required for this event!
Latiné/x Community Welcome 3 - 4:30 PM Tarantino Plaza  Celebrate the rich and vibrant Latine/x culture at USF. Experience a sense of belonging and community as you connect and find support on campus. Come together to forge meaningful connections where everyone is welcome to join and be in community. Light appetizers and refreshments will be provided. Pre-registration is required for this event!

International Parent & Family Welcome Reception

3 - 5 PM Gleeson Library, Monihan Atrium Join USF President Paul J. Fitzgerald, S.J., Chancellor John P. Fitzgibbons, S.J., and Provost Eileen Fung for a reception to welcome all families who traveled from outside the U.S. to help their students settle into life at USF. Meet the Office of International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS), faculty members, and other families of international students. Bring your incoming student and the entire family.
Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander Community Welcome 5 - 6:30 PM Privett Plaza We are thrilled to welcome all Asian American and Pacific Islander students and families to USF! Please join our new Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Center for a special community welcome. Connect with and hear from fellow students, staff, faculty, and alumni, and learn more about our resources and leadership programs. Light appetizers and refreshments will be provided. Pre-registration is required for this event!
New Student & Family Orientation Welcome 7 - 8 PM War Memorial Gym at Sobrato Center Join other new students and families for your official welcome to our USF community. Mandatory for all new first-year students. 

Sunday, August 11

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.
Navigating Food Allergies & Meal Plans 9 - 10 AM  University Center, Second Floor

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 and USF alumna, Crystal Chun Wong, to plan ahead and learn about the tips and tricks to managing a set meal plan, ways you can stay healthy, and tour the kitchen facility.

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. 
Community Living Welcome  10 AM - 12 PM War Memorial Gym at Sobrato Center Join your residence hall's first building meeting to get connected with the USF students and staff who will be here to help you all year long. #makingUSFhome Mandatory for all first-year students living on campus.
Campus Tours (Optional) 10 AM - 1 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.
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!
Off Campus Student Welcome 11 AM - 12:30 PM University Center, Fourth Floor Lounge

Living off-campus can sometimes feel isolating when trying to make friends and stay connected to campus life. This event is designed to help off-campus students network with their peers and discover various ways to stay engaged and connected with the USF community. Mandatory for all first-year students living off campus.

Campus Resource Fair 12 - 1:30 PM Welch Field & Gleeson Plaza Explore resources and services at USF and San Francisco — all in one place! Banks, cell phone companies, and campus resources will be available to assist students with opening a bank account, setting up a cell phone, or asking questions.
Orientation Leader (OL) Small Group Meetings 1:30 - 2:30 PM Various Locations Join your Orientation Leader (OL) and your small group to learn more about what is expected during Orientation Week! Mandatory for all new students. 
Family Welcome Mass 3 - 4 PM St. Ignatius Church Members of any or no religious affiliation are invited to join USF President Paul J. Fitzgerald, S.J., at this special welcome Mass. Open to all new students and families; attendance is encouraged but not required.
Family Carnival (Optional) 4 - 6 PM Welch Field & Gleeson Plaza Experience the ultimate family fun at our Carnival! Indulge in cotton candy, popcorn, ice cream, and more while enjoying exciting games like obstacle courses and corn hole. Unforgettable memories await!
Summer Zero Welcome Dinner  6 - 7:30 PM Tarantino Plaza Open to all Engineering majors and their families. Enjoy a catered dinner with your new engineering classmates, faculty, staff, and a few older engineering students. Our maker space, The Hive (located on the first floor of Harney), will also be open for the first hour or so, so pop in for a visit before grabbing some food. Please Note: Pre-registration is requested for this event!
Student & Family Farewell Dinner (On Your Own) 6 PM - until On Your Own Use this time to grab dinner, reconnect with your parents & family members, create a communication plan, and ensure you are all set for the week ahead.

Monday, August 12

Event Time LOCATION DESCRIPTION

Exploring Our Stories

Group A: Gillson Residents

10 AM - 12 PM

Presentation Theater

(School of Education building on Turk near Masonic)

In this interactive workshop where you'll reflect on and discuss your identities and stories, exploring how they play a vital role in the USF community. Mandatory for all new first-year students.

Student Success Workshops

Group B: Hayes-Healy Residents & Off-Campus Students

Group C: Fromm, Lone Mountain North (LMN), Lone Mountain East (LME), & Toler Residents

10 AM - 12 PM

McLaren Conference Center 

Group B: Room 252

Group C: Room 250/251

Students will learn important information about campus services and resources available at USF. Mandatory for all new first-year students. Mandatory for all new first-year students. 
Lunch (On Your Own) 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM University Center, Second Floor, Cafeteria Enjoy this free time to take a break, grab food, and get to know other students.

Exploring Our Stories

Group B: Hayes-Healy Residents & Off-Campus Students

1 - 3 PM

Presentation Theater

(School of Education building on Turk near Masonic)

In this interactive workshop where you'll reflect on and discuss your identities and stories, exploring how they play a vital role in the USF community. Mandatory for all new first-year students.

Student Success Workshops 

Group A: Gillson Residents

1:30 - 3:30 PM McLaren Conference Center  Students will learn important information about campus services and resources available at USF. Mandatory for all new first-year students. Mandatory for all new first-year students. 

Exploring Our Stories

Group C: Fromm, Lone Mountain North (LMN), Lone Mountain East (LME), & Toler Residents

2:30 - 4:30 PM

Presentation Theater

(School of Education building on Turk near Masonic)

In this interactive workshop where you'll reflect on and discuss your identities and stories, exploring how they play a vital role in the USF community. Mandatory for all new first-year students.
South Asian Student and Family Reception 4 - 6 PM Tarantino Plaza (Malloy Hall Courtyard)

Opinder Bawa, a vice president at the University of San Francisco, along with the Office of International Initiatives, USF President Paul Fitzgerald, S.J., faculty, and staff of South Asian heritage, and members of our Indian Student Organization will welcome new and continuing undergraduate and graduate students of South Asian heritage to campus.

RSVP here.

Dinner (On Your Own) 5 - 9 PM University Center, Second Floor, Cafeteria Enjoy this free time to take a break, grab food, and get to know other students.
Evening Event: Outdoor Monday Movie Night 8 - 10 PM Welch Field Join us for Movie Night: Catch Toy Story with your peers. Grab your spot, snag a free blanket (while they last!), and dive into a cinematic adventure. Don't miss out - be there early to secure your cozy corner.

Tuesday, August 13

Event Time LOCATION DESCRIPTION

First-Year Student Retreat

Group A: Fromm, Lone Mountain North (LMN), & Lone Mountain East (LME) Residents

Group B: Hayes-Healy Residents & Off-Campus Student

10 AM - 12:30 PM McLaren Conference Center

At the University of San Francisco, everyone is welcome. During this first-year retreat, we will develop community and friendship, recognize our values, and learn about Ignatian Spirituality and what it means to attend a Catholic Jesuit University. There are three activities we'll do together in our small group and one where we'll create something together with the rest of the larger group. We ask that you be open to interacting and engaging with your fellow classmates and respectful of everyone's identities and backgrounds. Mandatory for all new first-year students. 

Orientation Small Group Meetings

Group C: Gillson & Toler Residents

10 AM - 12 PM Check with your OL on specific times and location Join your OL and fellow classmates to learn about the USF community! Mandatory for all new first-year students.
Lunch (On Your Own) 11:30 AM - 2 PM University Center, Second Floor, Cafeteria  Enjoy this free time to take a break, grab food, and get to know other students.

First-Year Student Retreat

Group C: Gillson & Toler Residents

1:30 - 4 PM McLaren Conference Center At the University of San Francisco, everyone is welcome. During this first-year retreat, we will develop community and friendship, recognize our values, and learn a bit about Ignatian Spirituality and what it means to attend a Catholic Jesuit University. There are three activities we'll do together in our small group and one where we'll create something together with the rest of the larger group. We ask that you be open to interacting and engaging with your fellow classmates and respectful of everyone's identities and backgrounds. Mandatory for all new first-year students. 

Orientation Small Group Meetings

Group A: Fromm, Lone Mountain North (LMN), & Lone Mountain East (LME) Residents

Group B: Hayes-Healy Residents & Off-Campus Students

2 PM - 4 PM Check with your OL on specific times and location Join your OL and fellow classmates to learn about the USF community! Mandatory for all new first-year students.
Dinner (On Your Own) 5 - 9 PM University Center, Second Floor, Cafeteria Enjoy this free time to take a break, grab food, and get to know other students.
Evening Event: Casino Night Sponsored by the Residence Hall Association (RHA) 8 - 10 PM McLaren Conference Center Join the Residence Hall Association (the governing board for those living in the residence halls) in an evening of casino-inspired games! Come show us how lucky you are. Free lanyards while supplies last, and USF merch raffled throughout the night!

Wednesday, August 14

Event Time LOCATION DESCRIPTION

The Amazing Race: Campus Scavenger Hunt

Group C: Gillson Residents & Toler Residents

10 - 11:30 AM

Meet at Welch Field (next to the church)

Find Your Orientation Leader and Small Group

Scavenge for clues to unlock the hidden paths to USF's secrets, and learn about some vital campus spots while exploring the campus as a small group! Mandatory for all new first-year students. 

The Amazing Race: Campus Scavenger Hunt

Group A: Fromm, Lone Mountain North (LMN), & Lone Mountain East (LME) Residents

Group B: Hayes-Healy Residents & Off-Campus Students

11 AM - 12:30 PM

Meet at Welch Field (next to the church)

Find Your Orientation Leader and Small Group

Scavenge for clues to unlock the hidden paths to USF's secrets, and learn about some vital campus spots while exploring the campus as a small group! Mandatory for all new first-year students. 

Camp Gleeson & Library Tours

12 - 2 PM

Gleeson Plaza  We're bringing our favorite things inside Gleeson Library |Geschke Center out to Gleeson Plaza/Lawn! Stop by for refreshments, games, prizes, and info about the library, or to relax in our outdoor lounge with a book. If the weather's rainy, come on inside Gleeson; we'll set up the festivities on the second-floor common area of the library! The first 150 attendees get swag bags full of goodies! Mandatory for all new first-year students. 

Talk About It: Everyday Consent and Recognizing and Responding to Disrespect

Group C: Gillson Residents

1 - 3 PM

McLaren Conference Center

In this interactive workshop, students will start the important conversation of fostering a supportive, healthy & safe USF community. GO Team leaders, RAs, and students will be engaging in discussions around consent, sexual assault prevention, healthy relationships, and active bystander behavior. Building a campus grounded in respect is a community project in which every Don participates. Mandatory for all new first-year students.

Talk About It: Everyday Consent and Recognizing and Responding to Disrespect

Group A: Fromm, Lone Mountain North (LMN), Lone Mountain East (LME), & Toler Residents

2 - 4 PM McLaren Conference Center In this interactive workshop, students will start the important conversation of fostering a supportive, healthy & safe USF community. GO Team leaders, RAs, and students will be engaging in discussions around consent, sexual assault prevention, healthy relationships, and active bystander behavior. Building a campus grounded in respect is a community project in which every Don participates. Mandatory for all new first-year students.

Talk About It: Everyday Consent and Recognizing and Responding to Disrespect

Group C: Hayes-Healy Residents & Off-Campus Students

3 - 5 PM McLaren Conference Center In this interactive workshop, students will start the important conversation of fostering a supportive, healthy & safe USF community. GO Team leaders, RAs, and students will be engaging in discussions around consent, sexual assault prevention, healthy relationships, and active bystander behavior. Building a campus grounded in respect is a community project in which every Don participates. Mandatory for all new first-year students.

Evening Event: Paint & Sip

6:30 - 8:30 PM University Center, Fourth Floor Who said you weren’t an artist? Join the students and staff of the Cultural Centers for a paint night where all skill levels are welcomed! Engage in conversation, build community, learn about more Cultural Centers' events for the fall, and leave with your own social justice based art pieces! Did we mention free Boba Bar?!

Thursday, August 15

Event Time LOCATION DESCRIPTION
International Student Orientation (ISO) 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM McLaren Conference Center This session addresses the most common questions and concerns that international students have and covers essential information, such as immigration regulations pertaining to your visa, academic expectations, and cultural adjustment. Mandatory for all new international students. 
Gender Inclusive Orientation 9 AM - 12 PM Toler Residence Hall Lounge Gender Inclusive Orientation is a welcome for all students living in Gender Inclusive Housing. Residents will get the chance to meet each other, set community expectations, and participate in some learning sessions centered around their community experience. Residents are also encouraged to participate in the LGBTQ+ Welcome Day in the afternoon.
San Francisco Giants vs. Atlanta Braves

12 - 4 PM

Game Time: 12:45 PM

Meet at Privett Plaza

Join us for an afternoon at Oracle Park. The San Francisco Giants are an American professional baseball team based in San Francisco. Pre-registration is required - registration will open on Monday, July 29.

LGBTQ+ Pajama Jam 7 - 9 PM University Center, Fourth Floor Lounge Are you a new LGBTQ+ or questioning student? Come in your PJs to the LGBTQ+ Pajama Jam hosted by the Gender & Sexuality Center! Meet new people during Queer Speed Friending, sing

Friday, August 16

Event Time LOCATION DESCRIPTION
"Find Your Classes" Tour 10 AM - 12 PM Meet at Welch Field 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!
Pre-Health Professions Info Session 11 AM - 1 PM Harney Hall, Room 136 Embark on an engaging journey at our interactive workshop exclusively designed for pre-health students. Discover new horizons, gain valuable insights, and connect with peers.
Black Student Orientation (BSO) 1 - 3 PM Fromm Hall, Xavier Chapel BSO helps students make a smooth transition to college life, acclimate to on- and off-campus resources, and get to know the rich and diverse Black-identified community at USF. 
ASUSF Open House 4 - 5 PM University Center, Fourth Floor Lounge Meet executives of ASUSF chartered student organizations, including the Campus Activities Board, Culturally Focused Clubs Council, College Players, Foghorn Student Newspaper, GO Team, Graphics Center, Senate, USFtv, and Voices. Learn more about upcoming events and opportunities to get involved!
Evening Event: University Center (UC) Takeover 8 - 10 PM University Center From karaoke and spoken word to game night, join your peers for a Takeover of our University Center.

Saturday, August 17

Event Time LOCATION DESCRIPTION
Beach Yoga 10 AM - 12 PM Meet at Privett Plaza Rest and reset your mind, body, and spirit and experience the magic of yoga, 60 minutes of mindful movement in nature. Reconnect to the beauty and rhythm of nature as you watch the waves crash at Ocean Beach. All levels of experience, including new yogis, are welcome! Just bring a beach towel. Pre-registration is required - registration will open on Monday, July 29.
Latiné/x Student Orientation (LSO) 1 - 3 PM Fromm Hall, Xavier Room  Latinx Student Orientation (LSO) aims to cultivate a sense of belonging to help ease the transition into the university for our incoming Latinx/Hispanic/Chicanx population. In addition, LSO intends to empower our incoming Latinx/Hispanic/Chicanx students through community building, recognizing their unique identities/experiences as Latinx/Hispanic/Chicanx students, all while connecting them with appropriate tools and resources to successfully navigate USF. 
Asian, Asian American, & Pacific Islander (AAPI) Orientation  4 - 6 PM McLaren Conference Hall Join us for an empowering Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander (AAPI) student orientation designed to foster a strong sense of belonging and support during your transition into university life. Through community building, celebrating your unique identities and experiences, and connecting you with vital tools and resources, we aim to ensure your successful navigation of USF.
Off-Campus Student Social 6 - 7 PM Fromm Hall, Berman Room Living off-campus can sometimes make it challenging to meet new people and stay connected to campus life. This event offers a great opportunity for off-campus students to socialize and network with fellow peers, helping to build connections and foster a sense of community.
Evening Event: The Night Howl 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
Morning Mass: St. Ignatius Church  8 AM or 10 AM St. Ignatius Church All are welcome - members of any or no religious affiliation are invited to join.
SF Adventure Trips 11 AM - 1 PM Meet at Privett Plaza These fun outings are designed to help you connect with our local SF community while interacting with your peers. In addition, you will learn how to use your MUNI pass to discover local destinations, historic landmarks, and fun attractions. Pre-registration is required - reservation will open on Monday, July 29.
Off-Campus Student Social 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.

Koret Night

6 - 8 PM

Koret Recreation Center Koret Night is open to all incoming students (first-year and transfers) to learn about the facilities and programs at the Koret Center. Join us to learn more about Club Sports, Intramurals, Outdoor Adventure trips, group fitness classes, and more! Free t-shirts will be provided to all participants (while supplies last).
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.
Evening Event: Game & Trivia Night 8 - 10 PM University Center, First Floor Get ready to engage in a battle of intellect as we put your general knowledge to the test. Whether you're a trivia novice or a seasoned quizmaster, this event promises something for everyone. Gather your friends, form a team, or join one on the spot – it's all about collaborative learning and friendly competition.

Monday, August 19

Event Time Location DESCRIPTION
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.

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.
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. 
Honors College Welcome 10 - 10:50 AM McLaren Conference Center, Room 252 Newly admitted Honors College students will learn more about the curriculum, resources, and opportunities the Honors College has to offer.
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 all new students. 
New Class Picture 12 - 12:30 PM Welch Field Smile for your official new class photo. Please wear your 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 all new 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. 

Monday, August 19 - Monday, September 2: Weeks of Welcome (WOW)

Tuesday, August 20: First Day of Classes