Orientation

All new, transfer, and nontraditional students are required to attend one of Western’s Orientation programs.

Yes! Orientation is required for all students entering Western because we believe our programs offer important information!

Orientation is a wonderful opportunity for new students to get acquainted with one another, Western, and the community. Most programming is mandatory; however, there are some parts of the program that are optional. This will be shared once you are registered.

The fee charged for Orientation covers the cost of programming.

The orientation schedule will be emailed to you and posted with Mountaineer U, the online orientation.

Orientation is required for all students entering Western because we believe our programs offer essential information! However, we also realize that other life circumstances may prevent you from attending our program.

If this is the case, please contact the LEAD Office or the Orientation Director to make special arrangements.

You will already be moved into your room in your assigned residence hall during Orientation, so you should have everything you need. Some of the Orientation programming will be on campus, and just everyday attire is all you need. However, some Orientation activities are quite active, and you will be spending time outside while you give back to the Gunnison community by doing a service project with your Headwaters 100 class and exploring the area on a Wilderness Pursuits trip. When you check in for Orientation, we’ll make sure you know what clothing you will need to wear for those activities.

Gunnison doesn’t have a taxi service or Uber, but don’t worry; the Orientation Office is here to help. Please email orientation@western.edu or call us at 970.943.2469, and we will be happy to coordinate a pick-up for you.

Any incoming new student, including transfers. WBO is designed to serve as an adventure-based orientation for all new Western students. If you have been admitted to Western for the fall semester, you are welcome to participate in WBO.

It is not just for folks who know their way around the outdoors. On the contrary, WBO is for any student who is interested in having an awesome experience, is ready to learn a new skill and wants to get to know their new home in the Gunnison Valley. No prior experience is required to participate, you just need to be physically and mentally prepared for the challenge.

Yes and no. Parents and family members are welcome to help you move into your residence hall and attend Orientation Welcome. The rest of the program is just for students.

For Fall New Student Orientation, parents and families are invited to attend College 101 for Parents & Families. This is immediately after the Orientation Welcome and is followed by a Welcome Reception with the President, faculty, and staff. If your parents or family would like to attend, please let us know.

There is also a free online Parent & Family Orientation. This program will discuss several aspects of Western through information and videos. You will receive an email link to access the program in late July.