Summer Orientation FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions:

Registering for Orientation

How do I register for Orientation?

In order to register for summer orientation, you must first pay your $250 non-refundable enrollment deposit. Visit drake.edu/admitted to make this payment. Once you have paid your tuition deposition, sign up for your orientation session of choice at drake.edu/admitted. 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.

General Questions

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 register for a specific orientation session?

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

Preparing for Orientation

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

Please review pre-orientation checklist here (ADD LINK). 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.

How can I change my major?

Jenny – how do you want to answer this question?

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 snack (meals are provided)
•  Sweater/Sweatshirt (temperatures in different buildings vary) 

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

• Completing the Advising Survey is REQUIRED before our advising and mentoring team can enroll you in classes for the fall semester. The sooner you complete the survey, the sooner we can register you for classes. Our advising and mentoring team will use the information you share on your survey to create your fall class schedule. You will receive an email two days prior to your orientation session with instructions on how to view your fall semester schedule. If you submit your survey and need to make changes, email orientation@ drake.edu.

Family Orientation

Can I bring guests with me to Orientation?

You may bring up to two guests with you to your in-person Orientation. There is no additional fee for guests. Please note there will be some sessions that are only for students and only for parents. You can view 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 guest.  You will have the opportunity to meet other parents who are going through the same experience as you. Only students will be assigned a room for the night, guests and families should plan to stay at a nearby hotel.

Your Orientation Day 

What will my on-campus Orientation look like? 

Orientation is a day and a half experience beginning with check-in on day one and ends at 12pm on day two. You will attend sessions that will help you get to know important campus offices and provide you with key information for your first semester at Drake. You’ll also attend a resource fair and meet other new students. After you’ve registered for orientation, you’ll begin receiving emails with information about how to prepare.

Where and when can I check-in?

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

Who can I contact for further information?

Email us at orientation@drake.edu.