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 28
| 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 29
| 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. |
Wednesday, July 30
| 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 8
| Event | Time | LOCATION | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orientation Leader (OL) Virtual Small Group Meetings |
Varies (Check with your OL) |
Zoom (Check with your OL) |
Meet with your GO Team Orientation Leader (OL) and Orientation Small Group to learn more about what is in store for Orientation as well as answer any questions you have about starting at USF. |
| Virtual Orientation Help Desk | 5 - 7 PM | 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! |
Monday, August 11
| Event | Time | Zoom Registration | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virtual Residence Hall Meet & Greet | 12 - 1 PM | Zoom Link Coming Soon | Get a head start on making campus feel like home! Join us for a casual Residence Hall Meet & Greet before Move-In Day to meet your hallmates, RAs, and Res Life Staff. It's a great way to connect, ask questions, and ease into your residential community! |
Wednesday, August 13
| 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 Welcome Center & Help Desk | 9 AM - 6 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 | 9:30 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 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 school pride! |
| Black Community Welcome | 1:30 - 2:30 PM | Koret Lodge | The Black Community Welcome is more than just an event; it's an experience that embodies the essence of unity, respect, and empowerment. All are welcome to 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! |
| International Parent & Family Welcome Reception | 2 - 3:30 PM | Gleeson Library, Gleeson Atrium | All are welcome to join us 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. |
| Koret: Recreational Sports Open House | 3 - 6 PM | Koret Health and Recreation Center | Swing by the Rec Sports Open House to explore all the ways you can stay active and meet your communities of support on campus! Learn about Intramural Sports, Club Sports, Group Fitness classes, Outdoor Adventures, Swim Lessons, and how to access our Koret Health & Recreation Center. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just looking for new ways to stay well, there's something here for everyone! |
| Health Promotion Services (HPS) Open House | 3 - 6 PM | University Center, 5th Floor | 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. |
| Center for Academic and Student Achievement (CASA) Open House | 3 - 6 PM | University Center, 3rd 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! |
| University Ministry Open House | 3 - 6 PM | Toler Hall, Lower Level Room 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: |
| The Cultural Centers Open House | 3 - 6 PM | University Center, 4th Floor, Rooms 411- 413 | Stop by the Intercultural Center or Gender & Sexuality Center to see what our spaces have to offer and meet the student staff! The Cultural Centers are lounges for hanging out with peers and engaging in programs that explore social issues and identity. Whether you're looking for a space to study, express yourself, or find community, you belong here. |
| Campus Tours (Optional) | 3:30 - 5:30 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. |
| Latiné/x Community Welcome | 3:30 - 4:30 PM | Tarantino Plaza & Madonna Lounge | All are welcome to come 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! |
| Navigating Food Allergies & Meal Plans | 4 - 6 PM | The Market Cafeteria, 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, 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. |
| Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Community Welcome | 5:30 - 6:30 PM | McLaren Conference Center | We are thrilled to welcome all to join our 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. |
| Residence Hall Association (RHA) Casino Night & New Student Ice Cream Social | 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! This event is the perfect way to unwind and recharge while meeting your Orientation Leaders (OLs) and new classmates. |
Thursday, August 14
| 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 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. |
| Off-Campus Student Welcome | 11 AM - 12:30 PM | Harney Hall, Ground Floor, Room 56 |
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. |
| 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 school pride! |
| Orientation Leader (OL) Small Group Meetings | 1:30 - 3 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. |
| New Student & Family Welcome Mass | 3:30 - 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 Carnival & Campus Resource Fair | 4:30 - 6:30 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! 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. |
| Student & Family Farewell Dinner (On Your Own) | 6:30 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. |
Friday, August 15
| Event | Time | LOCATION | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Immunization Clinic | 9 AM - 2 PM | University Center, Room 402 & 403 | Drop in to get your Hep B, MMR, or TB test taken care of. If you're covered under USF’s student health insurance, you can also pick up a copy of your insurance card. Health Promotion Services (HPS) staff will be on hand to answer any questions about immunization requirements or your health plan. |
|
Exploring Our Stories: Gillson & Fromm Residents |
9:30 AM - 11 AM |
War Memorial Gym, Sobrato Center |
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. |
|
Exploring Our Stories: Hayes-Healy Residents |
10:30 AM - 12 PM |
War Memorial Gym, Sobrato Center |
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. |
|
Exploring Our Stories: Toler Residents & Off-Campus Students |
11:30 AM - 1 PM |
War Memorial Gym, Sobrato Center |
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. |
| 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. |
| Talk About It: Everyday Consent and Recognizing and Responding to Disrespect: Gillson & Fromm Residents | 1 - 2:30 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. |
| Talk About It: Everyday Consent and Recognizing and Responding to Disrespect: Hayes-Healy Residents | 2 - 3:30 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. |
| Talk About It: Everyday Consent and Recognizing and Responding to Disrespect: Toler Residents & Off-Campus Students | 3 - 4:30 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. |
| Black Student Orientation (BSO) | 5 - 6:30 PM | Fromm Complex, Xavier Room | 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. |
| Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Student Orientation | 6:30 - 8 PM | McLaren Conference Center | Join us for an empowering 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. |
| Dinner (On Your Own) | 5 - 8 PM | University Center, Second Floor, Cafeteria | Enjoy this free time to take a break, grab food, and get to know other students. |
|
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 16
| Event | Time | LOCATION | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate International Student Orientation | 9 AM - 1 PM | McLaren Complex | 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. |
| Empowerment Self-Defense 101 Workshop | 10 - 11 AM | Koret Health and Recreation Center, Hagan Gym | 50 spots are available for a self-defense workshop, you will learn about situational awareness, space management, basic concepts, and leverages in a safe and controlled environment. This class is open to undergraduate and graduate students of all gender identities. This session is taught by Maggie Mai. Maggie Mai is a San Francisco native and a martial arts and self-defense instructor with over 16 years of experience. She holds a black belt in Hapkido, a purple belt in Brazilian Jiujitsu, and has competed in numerous martial arts competitions. She is trained in Women Empowered, a Gracie Brazilian jiu-jitsu self-defense program tailored towards women. Pre-registration is required and opens on August 1. |
| 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 and opens on August 1. |
| 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. |
| OL Adventure Trip: Toler Residents & Off-Campus Students | 1- 3 PM | Meet at Privett Plaza | Join your OL and small group for an off-campus adventure to explore San Francisco, get comfortable using your MUNI pass, and discover hidden gems—all while building community along the way. |
|
Finding Your Why: Gillson & Fromm Residents |
1:30 - 3 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. |
| Finding Your Why: Hayes-Healy Residents | 2:30 - 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. |
| Finding Your Why: Toler Residents & Off-Campus Students | 3:30 - 5 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. |
| OL Adventure Trip: Gillson & Fromm Residents | 4 - 6 PM | Meet at Privett Plaza | Join your OL and small group for an off-campus adventure to explore San Francisco, get comfortable using your MUNI pass, and discover hidden gems—all while building community along the way. |
| OL Adventure Trip: Hayes-Healy Residents | 5 - 7 PM | Meet at Privett Plaza | Join your OL and small group for an off-campus adventure to explore San Francisco, get comfortable using your MUNI pass, and discover hidden gems—all while building community along the way. |
| Dinner (On Your Own) | 5 - 8 PM | University Center, Second Floor, Cafeteria | Enjoy this free time to take a break, grab food, and get to know other students. |
| Transfer Student Meet and Greet | 6 - 7 PM | Fromm Complex, Berman Room | This social event is a wonderful opportunity for new transfer students to meet and connect with fellow peers, helping to build relationships and foster a strong sense of community. |
| Latiné/x Student Orientation (LSO): Bienvenida/Welcome | 7 - 8:30 PM | Fromm Complex, Berman Room |
Latiné/x 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. LSO’s intent is 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. |
| 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 |
Sunday, August 17
| 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. |
| San Francisco Giants vs. Tampa Bay Rays |
12 - 4 PM Gametime: 1:05 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 and opens on August 1. |
|
Koret Night |
6 - 7:30 PM |
Koret Recreation Center | Koret Night is open to all incoming students—freshmen and transfers—to explore the facilities and programs at the Koret Center. Come learn about Club Sports, Intramurals, Outdoor Adventure trips, group fitness classes, and more! All participants will receive free t-shirts and exclusive Club Sports discount codes, and will be entered into a raffle to win prizes like headphones, sports equipment, and fitness recovery gear. |
| Movie Night | 8 - 10 PM | Welch Field, Gleeson Plaza | Join us for Movie Night 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 |
Monday, August 18
| Event | Time | Location | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|---|
| "Find Your Classes" | On Your Own | All of Campus | 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! |
| Gender Inclusive (GI) Housing Orientation | 9 - 10:30 AM | McLaren Conference Center, Room 250 | The purpose of the Gender Inclusive (GI) Housing Orientation is to introduce students to the values, expectations, and community standards of the GI community. This orientation aims to foster a respectful and affirming environment by educating residents on the engagement opportunities available to them both on and off campus. There will be presentations, guided discussions, and community-building activities that prepare GI residents to be in community with one another. |
| 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. |
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. |
| Evening Event: Night Howl & Ice Cream Social | 8 - 9 PM | War Memorial Gym at Sobrato Center | 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. |
Tuesday, August 19: First Day of Classes
| 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. |