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Summer Orientation at Drake University

During this event (required for all new students), you’ll meet fellow Bulldogs, connect with faculty and staff, register for classes, and learn about the academic expectations, resources, and opportunities that will support your success from day one.

Summer Orientation at Drake University

A Confident Start 

Every Bulldog’s journey begins with Summer Orientation—a two-day experience designed to introduce you to campus life, prepare you for academic success, and connect you with the right people and resources that will support you throughout your time at Drake University. 

Whether you’re a student or a guest, Orientation is your opportunity to experience the spirit, community, and possibilities that make Drake unique. 

What to Expect for Students 

During Summer Orientation, you’ll have the chance to connect with fellow incoming students and your Orientation Leader, helping you build early friendships and a sense of belonging. You’ll explore Drake’s campus resources, technology platforms, and academic expectations through interactive sessions that prepare you for your first semester. Orientation also includes meetings with faculty and staff from your college or school, giving you insight into your academic path and the people who will support you along the way. 

Outside the classroom, you’ll learn about student life—from the residence halls to clubs and organizations and involvement opportunities that create our vibrant campus. Orientation is your time to begin building support systems and gain confidence in your transition to college. 

And of course, there’s time set aside for you to have fun, connect with fellow first-year students, and celebrate. 

What to Expect for Guests and Families 

Orientation isn’t just for students! Guests are encouraged to attend, with dedicated sessions focused on how to support your student’s transition. You’ll leave with clarity, confidence, and your own Bulldog pride.  

2026 Summer Orientation Dates

Drake offers five Summer Orientation sessions throughout June. All sessions follow a similar schedule, with housing provided for students and recommended hotel options for guests. 

  • Session 1: Wednesday, June 3 – Thursday, June 4
  • Session 2: Sunday, June 7 – Monday, June 8
  • Session 3: Friday, June 12 – Saturday, June 13
  • Session 4: Sunday, June 21 – Monday, June 22
  • Session 5: Thursday, June 25 – Friday, June 26

Please note:
School of Education majors need to register for Session 2, 3, or 4.
School of Journalism & Mass Communication majors should only register for Sessions 1, 2, 3, or 4.

Register for Summer Orientation

Jump to

Student Schedule

Time Session
12:30—1:30 p.m. Orientation Check In
After you get checked in for orientation, students will be directed to their residence hall for the night. Only students will be assigned a room for the night, guests and families should plan to stay at a nearby hotel.
1:45 p.m. Welcome to the Bulldog Community
Your college adventure begins with an overview of the Drake experience where you will learn about the university’s expectations of its students, and we will help you get excited about your new life at Drake.
2:05 p.m. Students get acquainted
Meet your Orientation Leader who will work closely with you throughout the session to answer your questions about what it’s really like to be a Drake student.
3:30 p.m.

Residence Hall, Drake Dining, and Commuter Student Meetings

    • Making Halls into Homes - Residence Life
      All first-year students reside in a learning community which offers the opportunity to live in the same hall with other students who share your interests and priorities.  This session will highlight information you need to know about living in a residence hall covering things such as; what to bring and what not bring, basic policy and procedures, mail and packages, hall amenities, important dates and other important details about your new home.
  • Commuter Student Meeting
    Full-time students who are married or live within a 45-mile radius of Drake University with their parent(s)/legal guardian can apply for commuter student status. Join us to learn how to fill out the commuter student application, meet other commuter students and gain tips on staying connected to campus while living at home.
4:30-5:30 p.m.

Breakout Sessions

  • Student Accounts & Financial Aid – Next Steps
  • Student Involvement and FSL
  • Student Services Center & Public Safety
  • Inclusive Campus Wellness: Q&A with Health, Counseling & Disability Services
  • Pre-Professional Advising & Support
  • Equity and Inclusion at Drake (once at 4:30)
  • First Generation Student Experience (once at 5:00)
5:30 p.m. Orientation Group Meet Up
Meet up with your orientation group to debrief the breakout sessions and prepare for the evening ahead.
5:45 p.m. Dinner - Hubbell Dining Hall
Enjoy dinner at Hubbell Dining Hall with other students in your incoming class.
6:30—8:30 p.m. Evening Activities
Join other new students and orientation leaders for karaoke, board games, coloring, outdoor games, activities in the Bell Center gym, and more!

Time Session
7:30—8:30 a.m. Breakfast - Hubbell Dining Hall
8:30 a.m.

Bulldogs Belong Session

This session is designed to emphasize Drake's commitment to fostering a strong sense of belonging for every student. Students will:
  • Be introduced to Drake's core values and how they create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
  • Learn about the expectations of Drake students and how you can contribute to a positive and supportive campus culture.
  • Discover the resources and support systems available to help you thrive at Drake, including the Office of Equity and Inclusion.

We believe that a strong sense of belonging is essential for student success, and we are dedicated to providing an environment where every student feels valued and supported. We look forward to welcoming you to the Drake family!
9:15—10:00 a.m. Academic Program Overviews
Come meet your college/school staff! An important piece of college is what happens in the classroom. This is your opportunity to find out what you can expect from your college/school and ask any questions you may have.
10:15—11:15 a.m. College of Arts & Sciences and Zimpleman College of Business departmental meetings
10:15—Noon Farewell Reception/Services Fair
Stop by for some tasty snacks and get all your final questions answered from a variety of different departments represented at the Services Fair. Please be sure to bring your orientation lanyard to return in exchange for a special giveaway!
10:30—11:30 a.m. CPHS, SJMC and SOE Academic Advisors
Will be available to answer questions.
11:15—Noon A&S and Zimpleman College of Business Academic Advisors
Will be available to answer questions.
Noon Student/Guest Check-out - Residence Halls close

Parent & Families Schedule

Time Session
12:30—1:30 p.m. Orientation Check In
After you get checked in for orientation, students will be directed to their residence hall for the night. Only students will be assigned a room for the night, guests and families should plan to stay at a nearby hotel.
1:45 p.m. Welcome to the Bulldog Community
Our day begins with an overview of the Drake experience where you will learn about the university’s expectations of its students, and we will help you get excited about your student's new life at Drake.
2:05 p.m. Parents and Families - Your Role with Drake
Learn about your student’s transition to Drake and how we see parents as our partners.
3:00 p.m. Break
3:00 p.m.

Residence Hall, Drake Dining, and Commuter Student Meetings

    • Making Halls into Homes - Residence Life
      All first-year students reside in a learning community which offers the opportunity to live in the same hall with other students who share your interests and priorities.  This session will highlight information you need to know about living in a residence hall covering things such as; what to bring and what not bring, basic policy and procedures, mail and packages, hall amenities, important dates and other important details about your new home.
  • Commuter Student Meeting
    Full-time students who are married or live within a 45-mile radius of Drake University with their parent(s)/legal guardian can apply for commuter student status. Join us to learn how to fill out the commuter student application, meet other commuter students and gain tips on staying connected to campus while living at home.
4:30-5:30 p.m.

Breakout Sessions

  • Student Accounts & Financial Aid – Next Steps
  • Student Involvement and FSL
  • Student Services Center & Public Safety
  • Inclusive Campus Wellness: Q&A with Health, Counseling & Disability Services
  • Pre-Professional Advising & Support
  • Equity and Inclusion at Drake (once at 4:30)
  • First Generation Student Experience (once at 5:00)
5:30—6:30 p.m. Parents and Families Social
Join us for a social to meet and mingle with other parents and families of incoming students as well as Drake Staff and Administrators. Snacks and beverages will be provided.

Time Session
7:30—8:30 a.m. Breakfast - Hubbell Dining Hall
8:30 a.m.

Bulldogs Belong Session

This session is designed to emphasize Drake's commitment to fostering a strong sense of belonging for every student. Students will:
  • Be introduced to Drake's core values and how they create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
  • Learn about the expectations of Drake students and how you can contribute to a positive and supportive campus culture.
  • Discover the resources and support systems available to help you thrive at Drake, including the Office of Equity and Inclusion.

We believe that a strong sense of belonging is essential for student success, and we are dedicated to providing an environment where every student feels valued and supported. We look forward to welcoming you to the Drake family!
9:15—10:00 a.m. Academic Program Overviews
Come meet college/school staff! An important piece of college is what happens in the classroom. This is your opportunity to find out what you can expect from your college/school and ask any questions you may have.
10:15—Noon Farewell Reception/Services Fair
Stop by for some tasty snacks and get all your final questions answered from a variety of different departments represented at the Services Fair. Please be sure to bring your orientation lanyard to return in exchange for a special giveaway!

Photo Gallery

Browse the photo gallery below to see some pictures from one of our recent Summer Orientation Sessions.

Students checking in for Summer Orientation at the Johansen Student Center.
A female student talking with an orientation leader at Summer Orientation during Check-In at the Johansen Student Center.
Wide angle view of a full auditorium of students, parents, and families in Sheslow during Summer Orientation.
Two student orientation leaders laughing on stage in Sheslow while leading a Summer Orientation session.
Students and student orientation leaders talking outside of Old Main during Summer Orientation.
A student orientation leader walking with a group of students across campus.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I register for Orientation?

In order to register for summer orientation, you must first pay your $250 non-refundable tuition deposit. Visit drake.edu/admitted to make this payment. Once you have paid your tuition deposition, sign up for your orientation session of choice in your Admitted Student Portal. Date preferences are process on a first-come, first-serve basis.   

What if I have signed up for my Orientation date but need to reschedule?

Contact New Student Programs at orientation@drake.edu to reschedule.

Is there a fee for Orientation?

Once you have paid your tuition deposit, there are no additional fees to register for Orientation.

Why is Orientation required for new students?

Participating in Orientation is required for all new students. Through your orientation experience, you’ll begin making connections with other new students and learn about what supports and resources are available to you to help you find success as you transition to college. Orientation will set you up with the tools you need to thrive academically and socially during your time at Drake.

I am a School of Education or School of Journalism student and can’t attend the specified session for my school. What do I do?

Email orientation@drake.edu and we can assist you.

I am a student-athlete. Do I need to register for a specific orientation session?

Please contact your coach to discuss your orientation options prior to selecting a date.

 

Where and when can I check-in?

Check-in will begin at 12:30pm in the Olmsted Center and will conclude at 1:30pm.

 

What else do I need to do to prepare for orientation? 

Please review pre-orientation checklist. Make sure you check your email frequently. Important information is shared leading up to your orientation session, so make time to review the information that is sent to you.

What if I want to change my major?

Please email orientation@drake.edu to make a request for a major change. 

What if I need an accommodation?

When filling out the orientation registration form, you will have an opportunity to add in any accommodations needs you may have. Make sure to include a comment about the accommodation you are requesting to let us know what you will need.

What should I bring to Orientation?

Students will stay the night in one of our first-year residence halls. Linens, towels, and a thin blanket are provided. The following items are recommended:

  •  Extra blanket
  •  Extra towel and toiletries
  •  Casual clothing and shoes
  •  Extra money for Drake apparel and snacks (meals are provided)
  •  Sweater/Sweatshirt (temperatures in different buildings vary) 

When will my fall semester class schedule be available to view?

The first step to getting your schedule is filling out the Advising Survey, which is required for all students. Our Advising and Mentoring team uses information from the survey to enroll you in classes for the Fall Semester. You should receive an email two days prior to the orientation session you registered for with instructions on how to view your schedule.

If you submit your survey and need to make changes, email orientation@drake.edu.

Can I bring guests with me to Orientation?

You may bring up to two guests with you to your Orientation. There is no additional fee for guests. Please note there will be some sessions that are only for students and only for parents. See more about student and guest schedules here.

Are parents encouraged to attend orientation with their student?

Yes! We strongly encourage parents to accompany their student at orientation. Drake provides many sessions specific for parents and families. Students will be assigned a room in a dorm for the night, but guests and families should plan to stay at a nearby hotel.

Questions or Concerns?

Looking for more information about an upcoming orientation event that you weren't able to find on this page? Feel free to reach out to the orientation team at: orienation@drake.edu.

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