<p>For those of you with experience, what are your opinions about participating in one of Wash U.'s pre-orientation programs in the fall? Any recommendations/criticisms about particular ones?</p>
<p>My son participated in LAUNCH last year and thought it was really worthwhile and a great way to meet a lot of people. He actually ended up knowing someone in each of his classes that he met at LAUNCH.</p>
<p>I did Habitat. </p>
<p>I completely loved it, but I really don’t speak to anyone in it anymore. Either way, pre-O’s are nice, but certainly not necessary to settle in to school. Actual orientation is just a complete whirlwind.</p>
<p>Having done a Pre-O myself, I would say that participating in one is highly, HIGHLY recommended. It will make orientation so much more comfortable, and really ease your transition in to WashU. I wouldn’t think twice about doing a Pre-O, even at the expense of losing an extra week at home. Pick a Pre-O that you’re really interested in, and you’ll start your year off right, meeting other freshman with similar interests!</p>
<p>Pre-O is great. You meet people on a lower-key scale before all heck breaks loose, and you’re settled into your room before most freshmen arrive.</p>
<p>Don’t think twice — go for it. :)</p>
<p>Thanks for the information everyone. If anyone else has opinions about specific pre-o programs please share them…</p>
<p>I did Freshman Press when I first arrived on campus and since then have not only joined the paper but returned as a counselor. Do a Pre-O and do something that interests you. Each of them are fun in their own right and allow you to make friends with fellow freshmen and upperclassmen who can clue you in as to how to start making the best of your experience.</p>