<p>Currently, I’m going on vacation in the summer and returning the second day of orientation week, the 17th. This means I’m missing the first two days, and I could switch tickets, but that would cost upwards of $2000, which is no small amount. I know the 16th is movein day, so I’ll have to move in on my own time, but what are the importance of the first two days, and should I find a way to come back to the states earlier?</p>
<p>Wow–I hope some current students comment on this but from a parent’s point of view, move-in day and orientation are all very important for meeting/bonding with your fellow students and participating in the freshman traditions of Vanderbilt. Not to mention meeting with your adviser, getting settled into your room, picking up your textbooks…</p>
<p>agreed. wouldn’t miss short of illness or a death in the family if possible. I would start by a conversation with the Dean’s office…they obviously deal with “life happens” issues all the time. </p>
<p>I would definitely recommend that you change your ticket to be back in time for move in day. The first few days of orientation are a huge part of the first year experience at Vanderbilt. I would consider it money well spent, and $2000 is a lot of money to me and my student as well. It really is that great. Vanderbilt is just that awesome. Congratulations!</p>
<p>Rising Sophomore here using my Mom’s account to post–</p>
<p>DO NOT change your ticket. You’ll have plenty of time to meet, move in, etc. Orientation stuff ends up being an exhausting two weeks where you’re so desperate for a nap that you don’t remember anyone’s name anyways. Nothing is said in the first two days that won’t be said over and over for the next two weeks, and your money is much better kept in your pocket, trust me, you’ll find much better uses for 2 grand over the next year at Vandy.</p>
<p>100% agree with the above. I’m also a rising sophomore and I concur that the first two orientation days are of near zero importance. All that you will do is talk awkwardly to people who the only commonality you have with them is that ya’ll rolled the same visions number on vandy’s dice, watch an over dramatic play about stuff you shouldn’t do but probably will, and sit on the floor for two hours while your RA tells you to not be loud after 10 PM. </p>
<p>Tips for missing the first two days:
- Call your roommate
- Email your Vuceptor and tell him you have to be two days late
- After you move in walk to all of your class buildings and time your route.</p>
<p>The only thing you will really miss out on is founders walk… but I still think you should keep those $2000 dollars in your pocket.</p>