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.
Below you will find the First-Year Student Orientation schedule.
- 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 31
| Event | Time | Zoom Registration | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transfer Student Pre-Orientation | 6 - 7 PM | Presentation | 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, August 1
| Event | Time | Zoom Registration | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| First-Generation College Student & Family Program | 6 - 7 PM | Zoom | 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 3
| Event | Time | Zoom Registration | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Speaking Family Program | 6 - 7 PM | Zoom |
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 4
| Event | Time | Zoom Registration | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virtual Orientation Help Desk | 12 - 4 PM | Pop-In Here | 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 12
| 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 | University Center, First Floor | 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 | Lo Schiavo Innovation Wing | 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. |
| Latine/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. |
| Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander Community Welcome | 5 - 6:30 PM | Privett Plaza | Join us for the Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander Community Welcome to kick off Orientation. New students and families can connect, share experiences, and hear from members of the community. All are warmly welcomed to attend this unity-driven, empowering experience. Light appetizers and refreshments will be provided. |
| 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 13
| 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 AM - 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 Meetup | 11 AM - 12 PM | University Center, Fourth Floor Lounge | Living off-campus can feel intimidating when it comes to making friends and getting connected to campus. This event will serve as an opportunity for students living off-campus to network with their peers. |
| 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 | 5:30 - 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. Pre-registration is appreciated; please RSVP here. |
| 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 14
| Event | Time | LOCATION | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Finding Your Iggy: Campus Scavenger Hunt Groups A & B Group A: Fromm Residents & Off-Campus Students Group B: Gilson Residents |
10 AM - 12 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. |
|
Student Success Workshops Groups C & D Group C: Hayes-Healy Residents Group D: Toler, Lone Mountain, Loyola Villiage & Pacific Wing Residents |
10 AM - 12 PM |
McLaren Conference Center Group C: Rooms 251/252 Group D: Room 252 |
Students will learn important information about campus services and resources available at USF. Mandatory for all new first-year students. |
| Lunch (On Your Own) | 11:30 AM - 2 PM | Various On-Campus Dining Options | Enjoy this free time to take a break, grab food, and get to know other students. |
|
Finding Your Iggy: Campus Scavenger Hunt Groups C & D Group C: Hayes-Healy Residents Group D: Toler, Lone Mountain, Loyola Villiage & Pacific Wing Residents |
2 - 4 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. |
|
Student Success Workshops Groups A & B Group A: Fromm Residents & Off-Campus Students Group B: Gilson Residents |
2 - 4 PM |
McLaren Conference Center Group A: Rooms 251/252 Group B: Room 252 |
Students will learn important information about campus services and resources available at USF. 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 Incredibles 2 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 15
| Event | Time | LOCATION | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|
|
First-Year Student Retreat Groups C & D Group C: Hayes-Healy Residents Group D: Toler, Lone Mountain, Loyola Villiage & Pacific Wing Residents |
9 AM - 11 AM | 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. |
|
Talk About It: Everyday Consent and Recognizing and Responding to Disrespect Groups A & B Group A: Fromm Residents & Off-Campus Students Group B: Gilson Residents |
10:30 AM - 12:30 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. |
| 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. |
|
Talk About It: Everyday Consent and Recognizing and Responding to Disrespect Groups C & D Group C: Hayes-Healy Residents Group D: Toler, Lone Mountain, Loyola Villiage & Pacific Wing 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. |
|
First-Year Student Retreat Groups A & B Group A: Fromm Residents & Off-Campus Students Group B: Gilson Residents |
2:30 - 4:30 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 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. |
| 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 16
| Event | Time | LOCATION | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class Quest: Charting Your Academic Path | 10 AM - 11 AM | On Your Own | Take charge of your academic journey by mapping out the pathways to your classes before the semester commences, ensuring a confident and smooth start to your college experience. |
| San Francisco Giants vs. Tampa Bay Rays | 12 - 4 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; please register here by Friday, August 11. |
| OL Small Group Meeting | 4 - 6 PM |
Check with your OL on specific time and location |
Unite with your orientation small group to reflect on memorable moments and embark on an exciting city adventure, forging bonds and creating lasting memories together. Mandatory for all new first-year students. |
|
Evening Event: Paint & Sip Night Hosted by the Cultural Centers |
6 - 8 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 a DIY Boba Bar? |
Thursday, August 17
| Event | Time | LOCATION | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Student Orientation (ISO) | 9 AM - 12 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. |
| Camp Gleeson & Library Tours | 11 AM - 1 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. |
| ISO: Student Lunch | 12 - 1:30 PM | Kalmanovitz Hall, Amphitheater | Join ISSS and International Admissions for an outdoor lunch following the mandatory international orientation session. This is a great opportunity to meet your international admission counselor, the ISSS staff, and other students. Open to new international students. |
| LGBTQ+ Welcome Day | 1 - 5 PM | Fromm Hall Complex | Be true and be you at our first annual LGBTQ+ Welcome Day, hosted by the Gender & Sexuality Center! Meet new people during our Queer Speed Friending, learn about campus and local services at our LGBTQ+ Resource Fair, and end the day with Queereoke! |
| Pre-Health Professions Info Session | 2 - 4 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. |
| ISO: SF & Beyond | 4 - 4:30 PM | University Center, Fourth Floor Lounge | ISSS and our student leaders will join us for a fun presentation about living in San Francisco. Learn from other students about their favorite sites, restaurants, and more. Open to new international students. |
| ISO: Student Off-Campus Dinner | 5 - 7:30 PM | Meet at University Center, First Floor | Student leaders will take a group of international students to a popular area for dinner. Students will pay for their own dinner; make sure to bring money, comfortable walking shoes, and a jacket. Open to new international students. |
| Evening Event: Soccer Game |
3 - 5 PM (Men's Game) 6 - 8 PM (Women's Game) |
Negoesco Stadium |
Go Dons! Prepare to cheer on your fellow Dons during your first athletic event at USF. Be sure to wear your green and gold—free snack tickets for the first 250 students to attend either game. |
Friday, August 18
| Event | Time | LOCATION | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Student Day of Service | 9 AM - 12 PM | Various Locations | Engage with the vibrant city of San Francisco and learn about the culture of civic engagement through direct service with community partners. Pre-registration is required; please register here by Friday, August 11. |
| 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 | 3:30 - 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 19
| 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; please register here by Friday, August 11. |
| Latinx 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 feel intimidating when it comes to making friends and getting connected to campus. This event will serve as an opportunity for students living off-campus to network with their peers. |
| Transfer Student Meetup | 7 - 8 PM | Fromm Hall, Berman Room | Are you a new or returning transfer student? Stop by and meet other transfer students and build connections. Snacks and refreshments will be provided. |
| Evening Event: The Night Howl | 8 - 10 PM | Gleeson Plaza | It's an annual tradition that no new student would want to miss. So meet your fellow Dons as we howl for a perfect semester at USF. |
Sunday, August 20
| 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; please register here by Friday, August 11. |
| New Student Convocation | 3 - 4 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 | 4 - 4:30 PM | Welch Field & Gleeson Plaza | Smile for your official new class photo. Please wear your green and gold. |
|
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 & Dancing: What a fantastic and interactive way to liven up your weekend and have some fun with your peers. |
| 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 21
| 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 AM - 10:50 AM | 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 | 11 AM - 12 PM | 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. |
| Welcome Back Fest: Campus Resource Fair | 11:30 AM - 12:45 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. |
| Orientation To Your Major |
1 - 5 PM Major orientations will take place at specific times. |
See the link above for more specific information |
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. |
| CAB presents Dons Night Out | 7 - 10 PM | War Memorial Gym at Sobrato Center | Dons Night Out is the Campus Activities Board's (CAB) first major event of the year. It is a festival experience where students can expect more than just amazing Bay Area musical artists. You can enjoy photo booths, large-scale games, interactive experiences, great music, and more! So bring all of your friends and kick the year off right. This event is open to all USF students. |