my orientation tips

<p>just got back from orientation and thought I'd share some experiences for those who haven't gone yet. </p>

<p>First, at the last minute I used priceline and got the Doubletree for $40 a night...it only guaranteed me a king smoking room but I was able to get non-smoking....it's a convenient hotel but the parking garage is a little tight. still I can't complain for what I paid.</p>

<p>I would advise waiting until 8pm to check in at Wildwood. People were lined up at 630pm waiting to get in. We were just driving around and we waited until a bit after 7pm but the lines for the parents to check in were still long. By 8pm you could pretty much walk right up to the sign in table. </p>

<p>Getting the card....my son surprised me and got up early and had his FSU card by the time I got there (810am) and was in line for the bank. we finished before 830am, but the line behind him was very long....no way most of them were going to get it done before the first meeting at 9am.<br>
Today when we were leaving we walked by the card place and bank and there were no lines--and you can get them then.</p>

<p>Although they separate you from your child at sign in....he or she can come down and get you and take you in to show you the room.</p>

<p>luckily, there are stores around in case you are like me and pack sheets and pillowcase but forget a pillow and blanket....</p>

<p>watch the weather--on the way up and on the way back right around 4-5pm on route 10 we got hammered by storms. Rain so bad we had to pull over. kind of scary. It also stormed while at orientation at about the same time.</p>

<p>Get the FSU card in the afternoon before moving into Wildwood. And then go next door to Suntrust (by 4:30 - 4:45 pm) if you want to link it to a debit card account. But, don’t buy FSU clothing from the bookstore until you get the 20% off coupon in the Orientation packet. There’s also a $5 off coupon that can be used at Starbucks while everyone else is waiting in line for the FSU card.</p>