Frequently Asked Questions about Orientation
Is the program just for students?
The Orientation program is for both incoming students and their parents/guardians. While the focus is on the incoming student, a special program has been designed for parents/guardians that will help answer your questions, ease any concerns, and give you the opportunity to meet with other parents and interact with members of the Bryant faculty, staff and current student body.
Should transfer students attend this Orientation program?
No. Transfer students will have their own Orientation program on Monday, September 3. More information will be mailed about this program in August.
What if my parents can't come with me?
Many students attend Orientation on their own, although most do attend with at least one parent/guardian. If you do choose to come on your own, don't worry—you'll have plenty of opportunities to interact with your future classmates.
What if I can't attend Orientation?
Each year, between 89 – 93% of the incoming student class attends Orientation; however, we understand that some students and parents/guardians are unable to attend due to previous commitments. There will be other opportunities for incoming students to become more familiar with Bryant and its many services, most notably during Opening Weekend (move-in weekend for first year students, scheduled for September 1-3). We also hope to see all the parents of our Bryant students during Parents and Family Weekend (October 12-14).
Why is there an Orientation fee?
The fee helps to offset the cost of the overall program; the University itself pays for the majority of the expenses associated with Orientation. Past participants have expressed that they felt the program was very valuable and that their money was well spent.
When will I register for my fall classes?
On day one of Orientation, students will meet with the Undergraduate Advising staff to discuss course options and the Bryant curriculum. On day two, students will meet with Academic Advisors and register for their fall classes. Students who attend Orientation will leave campus with their fall course schedule.
I've already visited campus several times. Do I really need to attend Orientation?
Orientation is a much more in-depth look for both students and parents about life at Bryant University and the issues surrounding the start of your college experience. It's also an opportunity for incoming students to meet and interact with their future classmates, and for parents to connect with each other.
Do I have to stay on campus overnight?
Students are required to stay in the campus residence halls, even students who live close by and plan to commute. We do this so you can get a true feeling for what being on campus is like, and so you have an opportunity to interact fully with other incoming students. Parents are also encouraged to stay on campus, although this is not required. Each year, about half the parents stay in the residence halls overnight.
I have to travel from a distance, and it would be hard for me to get there for registration in the morning. Can I come early?
If you are traveling from a distance, we encourage you to register for early arrival and come to campus the night before. If you need to arrive the night before your session, please indicate this on the registration form. The additional cost for early arrival is $20 per person and includes housing, linens, and breakfast.
Check-in for early arrivals is scheduled from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. in the main lounge of Residence Hall 15. In order for us to make the appropriate plans for all early arrivals, please notify us of your plans five days in advance, either in writing or by e-mail at csi@bryant.edu.
I am from out of state, and am flying into T.F. Green airport. Can someone come and pick me up?
Absolutely! All you need to do is call the Center for Student Involvement at (401) 232-6160, and provide us with your flight information. A member of the Orientation staff will meet you at the airport, and bring you to campus. We strongly encourage those who need to travel from a distance to arrive the night before, not the morning of Orientation.
In order for us to make the appropriate plans please notify us of your plans five days in advance, either in writing or by e-mail at csi@bryant.edu.
When do I get my ID picture taken?
Students will have the opportunity to get their pictures taken for their Bryant ID card at Orientation. You will pick up your ID card in the fall when you move onto campus.
Do I have to take the math placement or language placement exam ahead of time?
Students are strongly encouraged to take these exams online prior to attending Orientation in June; you will receive information about this process shortly from the Undergraduate Advising office. If you are unable to complete the exam prior to attending Orientation in June, you will be able to complete it while you are on campus.
