<p>Orientation is around the corner! Not really. We still have about two and a half months, but between now and then I was hoping we can have a little thread going on it. I've accumulated some questions that I just can't quite find the anwers for and I'm sure I'm not the only one. ;) </p>
<p>I know they say an "overnight bag", but how big is too big?</p>
<p>What exactly is the "carnival"? </p>
<p>How relaxed is the environment?</p>
<p>Is orientation friendly and welcoming? There's just something about going to breakfast and not knowing anyone...</p>
<p>Should I worry that much about looking good for my ID?</p>
<p>And for any current students or alumni, how was your orientation experience?</p>
<p>Feel free to add on to the questions or chat about your musings on orientation!</p>
<p>I attended freshmen orientation summer 2008 so things are probably not exactly the same now. If you have to travel a great distance, request orientation session a few days before classes begin so you don’t have expense for extra trip to USF…USF usually has some orientation sessions just days before classes start for athletes, etc., that are not advertised but you can maybe get in if you make special request because of travel hardship. If you are coming to an early orientation session, travel light…bring items recommended in packet you will receive in advance. Just smile in your ID photo headshot…no need to get all dolled up. Orientation is fun, relaxed, and informative…you’ll enjoy it. Remember, everyone attending is in same boat as you being new to college…don’t fret, it’ll be fun.</p>
<p>I wish I could’ve gotten a later orientation date, but the latest one I could get was the June 13-14 orientation date.</p>
<p>My family will also be attending, but they’re just going to book a hotel. I might stay in the hotel with them and then go to orientation. We’re seeing this as an opportunity to explore Tampa/St. Pete/Clearwater. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that I get to go the beach!</p>
<p>What kind of bag did you bring? Did you bring a sleeping bag or a sheet set?</p>
<p>I brought a sleeping bag and pillow, and a backpack and tote bag for my stuff. Travel light, and don’t go to a lot of expense buying new luggage set for just one night. The rooms can get cold, so if you bring sheet set instead of sleeping bag…bring a blanket too. There will be planned activities at night, so you won’t be sleeping 10 or 12 hrs anyway! Too, a lot of new freshmen get all worked up about “XL” twin sheet sets. Regular size twin fitted sheets will usually stretch onto the dorm mattresses, but “XL” size twin sheets fit better and can be purchased readily at the Walmart or Target across street from campus–or get them in your hometown to bring. Any size blanket or twin or double sized bed cover will work. Don’t bring more than you can easily carry in one trip.</p>
<p>You will register for classes at orientation so the sooner the date the better. Orientation is fun, busy, and there will be a lot of things to do.</p>