New Student Orientation
Welcome to New Student Orientation (NSO)! Whether you're a first-time first-year student or a transfer student, NSO is your opportunity to get connected, feel prepared, and take your first steps toward success at UNC.
What is New Student Orientation?
Orientation at UNC is a comprehensive experience that unfolds across multiple phases. Rather than delivering everything in a single day, we intentionally spread information, connection and support over time to make your transition more manageable and meaningful.
This approach allows you to engage with important resources early, participate in a structured Orientation experience and continue building your sense of belonging once you arrive on campus.
Orientation for Every New Bear
New Student Orientation (NSO) is a key part of your overall Orientation experience and your introduction to life as a Bear. Whether you’re arriving from high school, transferring or returning to college, NSO is designed to help you feel informed, connected and ready to begin your journey at UNC.
Your First Step Toward Success
At NSO, you’ll build connections, explore UNC resources, and learn how to make the most of your first year. You’ll leave feeling more confident about your transition and more connected to your new community.
Get Connected
Opportunities to meet other new students and campus leaders.
Get In The Know
An introduction to UNC traditions and the your UNC community.
Get Support
Guidance on navigating campus life and accessing support services.
Get Involved
Tips for getting involved and making the most of your UNC experience.
Why Orientation Matters
Introduce you to UNC’s campus and traditions.
Connect you with other new students, staff, and faculty.
Highlight resources that support your academic and personal success.
Help you feel at home at UNC.
Your Start, Your Journey
Your Orientation experience may look slightly different depending on when you begin at UNC, but all students participate in the same multi-phase approach designed to support your transition from start to finish.
Explore your specific Orientation experience below to learn what to expect and how to prepare.
Before You Attend
You’ll receive a short Pre-Orientation online course to help you prepare. It introduces key policies, resources, and expectations so you arrive informed and ready to engage.
Your Next Step
Once you’ve confirmed your admission, log into your UNC Admissions Portal to register for NSO. We can’t wait to welcome you—on campus or online—and help you start your UNC story.
Family and Friends at NSO
Learn how to support your student and ensure their success at UNC.
Let’s get you ready for your UNC journey!
We’re here to help you get started!
From your very first question to your first day on campus, our team is here to make sure you feel confident and connected. We plan and run New Student Orientation—and we’re the ones behind the scenes making sure everything runs smoothly. You’ll also meet our incredible student staff, who are here to welcome you, answer your questions, and share what it’s really like to be a Bear. We work closely with offices across campus to make sure you get the info and support you need—from choosing classes to finding your people and getting involved.
The Faces You'll See First at UNC
Pablo Valentin
Director of New Student Orientation and Transition Programs
Sarah Spencer
Assistant Director of New Student Orientation and Transition Programs
Camryn Wharff
Graduate Assistant for New Student Orientation and Transition Programs
Got questions? We’re here to help.
Get In Touch
General orientation questions: orientation@unco.edu
Admissions application questions: admissions.help@unco.edu
When you email us, please include:
- Your name
- Your Bear Number (if you have it)
- A quick explanation of what you need help with
Parents/Support Persons
If you’re a parent or support person, you’re welcome to reach out on behalf of your student. Just know that due to the Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA), we aren’t able to share details about your student’s record.