WMU News

Nearly 4,500 freshmen to attend summer orientation

June 2, 2000

KALAMAZOO -- Nearly 4,500 freshmen will officially be in the "driver's seat" when they attend 13 two-day orientation sessions between June 5 and July 25 at Western Michigan University.

The orientation program is designed to prepare students for their transition from high school to college. This year's theme, "Driving in New Directions," centers on steering the new students in the right direction and showing them all of the routes available at WMU.

During each of the sessions, students are divided into small groups led by current WMU students who serve as orientation student leaders and mentors. The participants tour and live on campus, take placement tests, meet with academic advisors, register for fall semester classes, finalize housing and financial aid arrangements and get involved in student development and social activities. It is through these opportunities that students become acquainted with campus.

"By showcasing all aspects of our college community, we provide incoming students with the opportunity to 'test drive' the campus," says Christopher W. Tremblay, coordinator of orientation. "Simultaneously, we demonstrate the personable atmosphere of the University with each student who participates in orientation."

More than 3,000 parents also are expected to attend throughout the summer. Their orientation sessions, which take place on the first day of each freshman session, include campus tours and meetings with various University officials on such topics as career planning, financial aid, housing and academics.

In addition, approximately 700 transfer students are expected to attend one-day orientation sessions, called the "Transfer Transition Program," during five programs offered between May and August.

Media contact: Jeanne Baron, 616 387-8400, jeanne.baron@wmich.edu


Office of University Relations
Western Michigan University
1903 W Michigan Ave
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5433 USA
616 387-8400
univ-rel@wmich.edu

http://www.wmich.edu/wmu/news