An aerial photo of students walking across campus.
illustration of yellow rolling hills

New Student Orientation

Welcome, new Bears! Whether you’re beginning college for the first time, transferring or pursuing a second bachelor’s degree, UNC’s four-phase Orientation experience helps you prepare, build connections and find your place in our community. Your experience begins before you arrive and continues throughout your first year at UNC. Follow your fall or spring start-term information to learn what to do next.

Why Orientation Matters

Orientation helps you:

Understand your next steps and prepare for your first semester.

Build relationships with other students, staff and faculty.

Find resources and learn how to access support.

Develop a sense of belonging at UNC.

Find Your Orientation Experience

Choose the semester you will begin at UNC to find your Orientation timeline, NSO sign-up information and next steps. All new undergraduate students follow the four-phase approach, with schedules and activities designed for their start term.

A group of friends smile and wave enthusiastically while crossing a campus street together on a sunny day.

Get Started at UNC

After confirming your admission, check your UNC Admissions Portal for Orientation tasks and NSO sign-up information. Follow your checklist to prepare for your start term. Signing up for NSO is separate from registering for classes.

Have Questions About Orientation?

Find answers to common questions about the four-phase experience, signing up for NSO, preparing for your session and Family and Friends participation.

The back window of a blue Honda CR-V decorated with colorful paint reads “UNC Bound,” parked among other cars.

Family and Friends

You’re an important part of your student’s support system. Learn about campus resources, explore ways to support their growing independence and find out what to expect from Family and Friends programming at Orientation.

What You'll Experience

Students sit around round tables in a large meeting room, engaging in small group discussions during orientation.

Get Connected

Build relationships with other new Bears, student leaders and campus staff as you begin your UNC experience.

Two orientation leaders in navy and gold UNC shirts stand on the sidewalk waving next to a tall banner that reads “New Student Orientation.”

Get Support

Learn where to ask questions and how to access resources that support your academic success and well-being.

Students sit around a large table indoors decorating canvas tote bags with colorful markers while others stand nearby chatting

Get Involved

Explore campus activities, traditions and opportunities to find your community throughout your first year.

Meet Your Orientation Team

Pablo Valentin, Director, New Student Orientation and Transition Programs

Pablo Valentin

Director of New Student Orientation and Transition Programs

Sarah Spencer, Assistant Director, New Student Orientation and Transition Programs

Sarah Spencer

Assistant Director of New Student Orientation and Transition Programs

Camryn Wharff, Graduate Assistant, New Student Orientation and Transition Programs

Camryn Wharff

Graduate Assistant for New Student Orientation and Transition Programs

Questions? We’re Here to Help.

Get In Touch

Orientation questions: orientation@unco.edu

Admission or application questions: admissions.help@unco.edu

When you email us, please include:

  • Your name
  • Your Bear Number, if you have one
  • An explanation of what you need help with

Family and Friends

We’re happy to answer general questions about Orientation and help you find campus resources. For questions about your student’s individual record, encourage your student to contact the appropriate office directly. Learn more about student privacy through the Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA).

Contact Us