<p>One thing i highly recommend for incoming students is one of the pre-orientation programs (Wilderness reflections, POST, etc). You might not want to leave your friends or your home a few days earlier than everybody else, but doing one of these programs makes your first few days of college go so much more smoothly. Orientation is crazy, and its really nice to have a few people whom you already know and are comfortable with to get through that craziness together. Plus, you have upperclassman leading this programs and they can usually answer all of your questions and even give you a few tips. </p>
<p>If cost is an issue, I think all of these programs have scholarships. If you are worried about logistics (like where you put your stuff) they will give you a place to store your stuff. If you are worried about missing your move in time...well your given move in time really doesn't matter. Just show up anytime after your given time and you will be fine.</p>
<p>I AGREE! POST was one of the best experiences of my Cornell life so far. PLEASE don't hesitate to ask me any questions about it - I both did the program and was a leader (and so I know all of the lovely leaders this year). We do have financial aid, but the cost of the program is so minimal - $800 for the entire week (includes food, activities, transportation to service sites, etc). And you will always make your move-in time - we make sure to get every student on campus by the start of the first move-in time (which was fantastic for me).</p>
<p>I didn't mean to make it seem inexpensive (since I know it's not), but it's certainly not as much as a lot of people envision it to be. Like I said, substantial financial aid is available, so cost shouldn't be a deterrant. Furthermore, in the past, those who are Tradition Fellows have not had to pay, and I believe this policy is still in place (though it might have changed now that you can receive service hours for it).</p>
<p>None of the programs have started. All of the Pre-Orientation programs run the week or so before orientation, so they don't start until mid-August.</p>