Schedule
Friday, September 27
8:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Students with last names A–L can move in between 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., and those with last names M–Z can move in between 10:30 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. Commuter students are welcome to check in between 12:15 and 1 p.m.
-
On-campus residential students: Check-in held in Upper Gwinn for all residential halls and apartments. Access to your residence hall will be available only starting at your scheduled check-in time and not before.
-
Commuter students: Our commuter students are expected to attend the full Orientation program and can check in Friday from 12:15 p.m to 1p.m., and are welcome to explore the campus and attend the Welcome Dinner in the evening.
12:30–2 p.m.
Come learn about all the amazing resources and supportive staff you have available to you during your time here and beyond. Our team is here for you, and at our Student Services Fair you can learn all about opportunities and resources you have at SPU.
2:30–3:30 p.m.
Student Financial Services Workshop
Students and Guests are welcome to come learn about Financial Aid packages, navigating their Student Account, and exploring options for on-campus Student Employment.
4:30–5:30 p.m.
Words of welcome, introduction, and blessing from university leadership at the start of an exciting academic year.
5:30–7 p.m.
Enjoy a complimentary, locally catered dinner and connect with other new students and their families. Dinner times are assigned to students and their guests according to their check-in times. If you have an early check-in time (8:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m.), you’ll be invited to begin dinner at 5 p.m. If your student has a late-morning or early afternoon check-in time (10:30 a.m.–1 p.m.), you’ll be invited to begin dinner at 5:30 p.m.
Saturday, September 28
9-10 a.m.
Learn about SPU’s curriculum, programs, and services that lead to your student’s success in and out of the classroom.
10-11 a.m.
Meet our Academic Deans and learn more about the vibrant academic life that your student will be getting involved in.
11 a.m.-12 p.m.
i. What will you face as parents and family, now that your student is at college? Learn more at the final parent and guest session.
12–1:15 p.m.
Enjoy a variety of local flavors as you meet other students and families at this complimentary lunch. Students meet back up with their Orientation leaders. Make sure to wear your lanyard — that’s your entrance ticket!
1:30–2:30 p.m.
One of the bookend traditions at SPU, this formal ceremony of initiation and adoption into the SPU community is led by faculty members robed in traditional academic regalia.
2:30–5 p.m.
The family and guest portion of Orientation concludes at the end of New Student Convocation. This is a great time for students to connect one last time with their families and take photos, finalize any details, and to pray together as they step into this next phase of their journeys.