Does anyone know the reason for the $115/pp for guests at orientation? I will be going with my son, and staying in a hotel.
@x2018x The fee covers meals for two days as well as helping to pay staff for the meetings that parents have to attend.
It also includes lunch. It is a very well run event. Lots to do. But had my younger son decided to attend USC next year, I would not have attended twice. I’m familiar with the campus, heard the speeches, been to all the breakout sessions -many of which will be offered at Parent’s Weekend. Last year, I attended the entire first day, but spent the second day sleeping in and getting ready for a long drive home. I do recommend staying in a hotel over the dorms.
@VAMom23 I’m with you. I’ve done my time in a dorm 
They do a good job of getting you excited to become part of the Gamecock family. It was one of many events I have attended that demonstrates how great USC is at handling crowds. They really make you feel welcome. I spent a lot of time in the air conditioned Russell House talking to other parents, and reading while my son was out at activities. And it is an ideal time to explore the university or surrounding area if you have not done so already. You won’t get the ability to do that when you move in. Move in day is crazy busy. I didn’t have to worry about getting all teary eyed because there was a line of cars circling like vultures waiting for my parking space, so we did a quick “goodbye” after unloading and were on our way.
@VAMom23 did you use your car at all? I have a rental car (we are flying in) but not sure if all the time is spent on campus or if I the parent will have time even if son does not.
Yes, I did. I stayed down in the Vista and drove to campus. It’s bloody hot in the summer and walked only when I had to.
Maybe a meal or two?
Per the flyer that we received today: The $115 parent/guest fee covers FIVE meals:Day one. BLD. Day two, BL. plus
all related materials and parking.
Students will be occupied from 8 am -11 pm on day one, 8-5 on day two. Students MUST attend EVERY assigned session, no exceptions.
This was asked on the Facebook page but does anyone know if we can request an earlier registration time the second day? We had a heck of a time with flights and had to come in two days early and then the only flight I could get out the second day or orientation was at 5:40, so we’d have to leave campus by 4/4:30 latest. With our luck, she’ll be in the last registration group and we’ll miss our fight. Really didn’t want to stay a fourth night!!!
I have attended orientation on two separate years for two sons and each has gotten done hours earlier than they have said (second day). The first year I moved my flight to be later and ended up waiting around instead. If I remember correctly, everyone was done by approx. 2:30.
You should be fine. Day two ends earlier than expected. THere were some major computer issues last year when we , and it caused delays in registering. Basically, once the Advisor “unlocks” registration for the kids, they can register remotely. So, leaving shouldn’t be an issue. If you run into any problem registering, my son can walk you through it over the phone. It seems a bit daunting at first, but once you understanding how the computer system works you will be fine.
Great–definitely what I was hoping to hear. Thanks VAMom for the offer of help from your son! Will let you know if we have any questions.