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During Your Orientation

Orientation is your gateway to a comfortable transition into college. Whether you are fresh out of high school, transferring from another institution or returning to higher education to expand your knowledge and career options. Orientation is a valuable time to meet other students, connect with college faculty and staff, and gear-up for academic success at Western.

New Student Orientation Fee

A $95 program fee covers the cost of New Student Orientation (includes housing, meals, and materials) in addition to Week of Welcome (WOW), August 22 - August 31, 2008!

Family and Guest Fees

  • $60 per adult family member staying with us in residence halls (only available during sessions 1-3). Fee covers housing, three meals, and materials.
  • $45 per adult family member without housing. Fee covers three meals and materials.
  • $20 per child (12 and under). Fee covers three meals and Sibling Program

Refund Policy

Refunds will be given THROUGH MAY 31, 2008. All refund requests must be made in writing and faxed to (970) 943-2702 or mailed to the Office of Campus Life and Orientation; 600 N. Adams, Gunnison, CO 81231. Please include the student's name, student number, and reason for refund. The refund will take two to three weeks to process and will be made payable to the student.

Accommodations

  1. Students will be required to stay on campus during Orientation and the residence hall rooms will be furnished with bed linens, towels and a pillow. Your family is also invited to stay in another part of the residence halls, just follow the appropriate steps on the Reservation Form.
  2. Off-campus Housing Options: visit the Gunnison Chamber of Commerce at gunnisonchamber.com for information on local hotels/motels in addition to summer tourist activities.

What to bring?

There will be a vast array of activities going on, including interactive outdoor initiatives. Here is a list to aid you with your packing.

  • Alarm clock
  • Toiletries
  • Sunscreen, baseball cap or hat
  • Comfortable shoes
  • Water bottle
  • Light, comfortable clothing (i.e., light jacket, walking/hiking shoes)
  • Sleeping bag (even in the summer it gets a little chilly at night)
  • SAT or ACT scores, any college credit or AP scores earned after you were admitted to Western
  • Any personal scholarship information, financial aid awards or admissions correspondence
  • Lots of energy and excitement!

What to do?

  • Receive academic advising and finalize fall semester classes
  • Learn how to access Western OnLine (WOL), your portal to all campus information and Western Email
  • Learn about opportunities to get involved with the unique clubs and organizations on campus
  • Check on your financial aid application
  • Sign up for Wilderness Based Orientation trips held in August
  • Explore majors and career opportunities through our on-line Discover program
  • Learn about recreational opportunities in the Gunnison and Crested Butte areas
  • Get your Mountaineer Card. This card will be your official student ID and will give you access to the library, fitness center and athletic events. Depending on how you wish to utilize your card, you will also be able to use it at Packers, the WSC Bookstore, Games Area, campus laundry facilities, soda/vending machines, copy machines, Wilderness Pursuits trips or gear rentals and even for pizza delivery in Gunnison.
  • Buy your books early. The "Books-To-Go" program is a FREE service available through July 30 that allows you to pre-purchase your books for fall semester classes. Register at the bookstore during your Orientation, or visit www.western.edu/book.
  • Find a job. There are a lot of on and off-campus job opportunities. Visit the Careers for Mountaineers website at www.western.edu/career/mountaineers.
  • Submit Immunization Records and Selective Service Registration. You should receive these materials along with your Orientation confirmation letter. All students must comply with immunization and selective service policies. For specific information, contact the Student Affairs Office at (970) 943-2090 or visit www.western.edu/studaff