Orientation : Summer Orientation

Frequently Asked Questions about Summer Orientation

Last updated: May 13, 2019

Technology Frequently Asked Questions

Who should attend the Summer Orientation program?

All students who are new to Western Connecticut State University (Freshmen, Commuters, Transfers, etc.) and their parents. Students and parents arrive between 12:30 and 1:30 p.m. on Day 1 and students stay overnight (cost $50). Students attending the day only session (cost $25) need to attend on both days. Day 2 will start at 8:30 a.m. with breakfast in the Midtown Student Center Restaurant. Transfer students may choose to attend our one-day transfer orientation on August 22 instead.

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Is Summer Orientation mandatory?

No, it is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended.  The orientation is the time when you get ready for life at WCSU, the time you finalize your class registration, and get your ID card.  You will meet some faculty and fellow students, attend fun programs and invaluable workshops that will help make your experience at WCSU even more rewarding.

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I am a transfer student.  Do I really need to attend Orientation?

The short answer is yes, we definitely recommend you do, but you should attend our special transfer orientation in August.

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I am a commuter.  Should I still attend the Overnight Orientation?

Absolutely!  The Overnight Orientation is not meant to be a residential experience but rather one for you to make friends and get connected early on in your WCSU experience.  What better way to really connect with a group of other students who are new to WCSU than to attend a few fun programs together and spend the night in a residence hall?

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When and Where is Summer Orientation?

There are three overnight orientation sessions scheduled for June:

Session 1:  June 20/21 (Thu/Fri)

Session 2:  June 24/25 (Mon/Tue)

Session 3:  June 26/27 (Wed/Thu)

Session 4: July 11/12 (Thu/Fri)

Please note: we can’t avoid conflicts with all graduations.  If you have a conflict, we recommend you speak with your principal to see if you can make arrangements.  If not, please call us at 203-837-9700.

Each Orientation session begins with check-in between 12:30 and 1:30 p.m. in Litchfield Hall on the Midtown campus.  Park in the White Street Parking Garage for easy access and bring your overnight bags to check-in. Orientation for all students concludes the following day around between 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

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How do I register for Summer Orientation?

To stay for the overnight experience, please complete the registration form on-line. Please pay conveniently by using our online system, a non-refundable $50 for overnight and $25 for day only session (if you have problems with the system, please call us and we can arrange for you to pay by check (made out to WCSU)).  Should you have any questions, please call 203-837-9700 and leave a message, or send an email to diazv@wcsu.edu.

What if I did not realize I had to register?  Can I still attend?

Yes, absolutely but you may not be able to stay overnight as our sessions do fill up.

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How do I know which session to attend?

Choose the session you would prefer to attend. All students may attend any of the four sessions.

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Are my parents allowed to attend Summer Orientation?  What about my siblings?

Not only are parents allowed to come, they are encouraged to attend on Day 1 of orientation.  There will be special workshops just for parents. However, if at all possible we encourage families to make arrangements for younger siblings to remain at home as this day is especially reserved for WCSU students and their parents.

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What time does Summer Orientation start?

Check-in begins 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. in Litchfield Hall for students and the Student Center for parents on the Midtown campus.  Anyone staying overnight should check their bags here. The Welcome program will begin at 1:30 p.m. in Ives Concert Hall in White Hall.  You don’t want to miss it. 

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What if I am on vacation during Summer Orientation and can’t attend?

Please call 203-837-9700 to discuss other options.

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Do I have to take my placement tests before orientation?

Yes!  All of our incoming full-time Freshmen will be pre-registered for their classes and receive their fall class schedules at orientation.  If you have not taken the placement tests, we are unable to pre-register you for all of your classes. Please reference your acceptance packet.

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What requirements are there before I am allowed to register?

The following information must be in place before you can register for classes:

  1. make your $200.00 non-refundable deposit
  2. a copy of proof of vaccination against measles and rubella must be presented to Health Service. It can be mailed, faxed or brought with you on the day of Orientation. You must have 2 measles vaccines, the first one given after your first birthday and one rubella vaccine. Two doses of the MMR vaccine, the first given after your first birthday, are acceptable.
  3. you will need to have taken any applicable placement test as noted in your admissions packet (Math, English, and/or Chemistry)
  4. Most of our incoming Freshmen will be pre-registered prior to orientation and will receive their schedule during orientation.  Students who are admitted after orientation are also pre-registered and will receive their schedules in the mail.  Part-time students will register during orientation.  Transfer students need to meet with an adviser and get registered as soon as they are admitted.  

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When do I receive my class schedule?

The Registrar’s Office builds schedules for first-time freshman students. You will receive your class schedule at orientation.

How do I make changes to my class schedule after Orientation?

Students can make changes to their schedule, after orientation, in person at the Office of the Registrar in the Old Main Administrative Building, 1st floor or in the Academic Advisement Center, Old Main 202.  Any questions can be directed to (203) 837-9206 or (203) 837-8397.

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What do I need to bring for the overnight stay?

Some things you will want to bring for Overnight Orientation are: pillow and case, sleeping bag or sheets & blanket, towel & toiletries, casual clothing & comfortable shoes and flip-flops, jacket or umbrella (if necessary), small fan (Litchfield Hall dorm rooms are not air conditioned).

In order to get your ID card you’ll need to bring a photo ID. If you don’t live too far away, consider coming back during the summer to get your ID when the lines are not as long.  Bring cash or credit cards if you are planning to buy your books.  If you have not yet submitted your proof of immunization, please bring that with you as well.

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What is the cost of the Orientation?

The Overnight Orientation cost is $50 for all students.  This includes housing, dinner on Day 1, snacks, breakfast on Day 2. The Day Only Orientation Program cost is $25 for all students and includes meals. The cost for orientation sessions is non-refundable.

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Where can my parents and I stay if we are coming in from far away?

Here is a list of hotels that are only about 10-15 minutes away from our Midtown and Westside campuses:

Midtown campus:

Westside campus:

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When does Fall LEAP Week begin?

The first official day of LEAP Week is usually the day our incoming students move into the residence halls and attend the Entering of the Gates Ceremony.  For Fall 2019 that date is Friday, August 23, 2019.  Whether you live on campus or commute, this is the day you are officially being welcomed to WCSU.  Don’t miss it.

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When do Fall classes begin?

In 2019, classes begin on Tuesday, August 27th.

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How do I get to WCSU for Summer Orientation?

Orientation check-in for all schools is being held on our Midtown campus at Litchfield Hall. Directions and a map can be found here: staging.www.wcsu.edu/campustour/directions.asp

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When will I get information about Summer Orientation?

After you have paid your $200.00 non-refundable deposit we will send you a letter in the middle of May regarding orientation as well as your WestConnduit account.  Please familiarize yourself with WestConnduit, check out your account, and get used to checking for campus announcements regularly.  You may also receive reminder postcards and email blasts so check your email regularly.

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What should I do when I arrive on campus for Summer Orientation?

Students arriving for the overnight orientation program should park in the White Street garage and check in at Litchfield Hall. Bring your overnight bag to the check-in.

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Where do I park?

All students coming for orientation at the Midtown campus will be asked to park in the White Street Parking Garage which is located right on the Midtown campus.  Please check our website for directions.  staging.www.wcsu.edu/campustour/directions.asp

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Is there a separate Summer Orientation for students with disabilities?

Yes and the AccessAbility Services office will be open during Orientation so you are always welcome to walk in and ask questions.  The office is also planning one to one orientation meetings for students who plan to take advantage of the services available through the AccessAbility Services Office. Please contact the office directly by calling 203-837-8225 or emailing obere@wcsu.edu if you have any questions and/or to schedule your one to one orientation meeting.

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What do I do if I need accommodations for my disability during Summer Orientation?

If you have a disability and require special accommodations for Summer Orientation, placement exams, or your classes, contact WCSU’s AccessAbility Services office at (203) 837-8225 or by email at: obere@wcsu.edu.

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What if I am a part-time student?

Part-time, matriculated students are invited and encouraged to attend all of our Orientation programs – both Summer Orientation and LEAP Week  at the beginning of the fall semester.  Just like our full-time students you can learn something about WCSU, get registered, get your ID card, and computer accounts, buy your books, etc.  If you don’t live too far away, consider coming back during the summer to get your ID when the lines are not as long. 

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What if I am an adult or non-traditional student?  Do I still need to attend Summer Orientation?

You are welcome to take advantage of the full program but you are not required to do so. A lot of non-traditional students have family obligations and find it difficult to make overnight arrangements.  We encourage you, however, to attend as much as possible during the day.  Please call us at 203-837-9700 if you have questions regarding your unique situation.

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Will I be able to purchase my books during Orientation/LEAP Week?

Yes, there will be time during or after Orientation/LEAP Week for students to purchase books.  To purchase textbooks, be sure to bring checks, cash or credit cards, and a printout of your class schedule.  If you put money into your WestConnect card, you can use your WestConnect card at the bookstore.  Books can also be ordered online at wcsu.edu/bookstore/ for either shipping or in-store pickup. Our bookstore matches all online prices so be sure to speak with them – they are very convenient and even deliver the books to your room.

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How do I find out about how to get involved on campus?

Some of the workshops offered during Summer Orientation will answer this question.  You can also visit the Student Life/Student Activities website and see what clubs and organizations are already on campus or how to form your own club.  During LEAP Week in August/September you can meet many of the clubs during Club’s Carnival.

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How do I get my school photo ID?

On the day of Orientation your Orientation Leader will take you to get your photo ID.  Please check the schedules you receive during check-in for locations.  Also, you can avoid standing in long lines by getting your photo ID anytime during the summer during regular business hours.

During orientation, you will receive your school ID at the WestConnect office, just bring a copy of your class schedule and a photo ID.  While you are there, you may want to check out the benefits of our Student Advantage card.

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Where do I go to pay my bill or find out about Financial Aid?

The Cashier’s Office is located in the Old Main Administration Building where you will be able to handle all billing inquiries or you may visit their web site at staging.www.wcsu.edu/cashiers.  Bills for the fall semester are due in full by July 15.
The Office of Student Financial Services is also located in the Old Main Administration Building. Here you can find answers to any of your financial aid concerns, or go to staging.www.wcsu.edu/finaid.  Remember that you have to apply for Financial Aid every year and FAFSA forms are due in early March.

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When can new students move into the residence halls?

Move-in day for new students is Friday, August 23, 2019.  For more information regarding Housing go to http://staging.www.wcsu.edu/housing/]

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What immunizations must I provide in order to register for classes?

Connecticut State law requires students to present immunization in order to register for courses. Please go to staging.www.wcsu.edu/healthservices and click on immunization requirements for details.

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Do I need to show any other immunization if I will be residing on campus?

Meningococcal (must include group A, C, Y&W-135) or Menactra are mandatory for students living in on-campus housing. Proof of last vaccination must be within 5 years of your 1st day of moving into the residence hall.  Please submit your proof to the Health Services office located in front of Litchfield Hall, Midtown campus.  Also, you may fax your information to (203) 837-8583.

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How do I get a WCSU Windows account?

A WCSU Windows account is necessary for students to access the University’s network from the computer centers, classrooms, labs, residence halls, and wireless network. You will be able to get your account information during Summer Orientation, LEAP (Learn, Engage, Adapt, and Plan) Week, and any other time during the semester from the following staffed computer centers on campus: Midtown Computer Center (Haas Library), Westside Computer Center (WS 117), and the Student Technology Training Center (SC 225). http://staging.www.wcsu.edu/technology/students/pubfac.asp

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Should I get a WCSU email account?

Yes, all students are required to get a WCSU email account for official WCSU business. Once your account has been created, you will have access to your email from any computer on or off-campus that has access to the Internet by visiting http://mail.wcsu.edu, or by logging into WestConnduit and clicking on the email link. You can obtain your WCSU email account credentials at any of our staffed computer centers on campus.  http://staging.www.wcsu.edu/technology/email/studentinfo.asp

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What is a WestConnduit?

WestConnduit is WCSU’s campus portal.  WestConnduit allows you to see your grades, course schedules, academic history and financial aid information, and allows you to register for classes and make payments to the university.  It also provides access to Blackboard, WCSU’s online course management system, campus and personal announcements, the campus events calendar, and convenient links to other university resources.

WestConnduit can be accessed by visiting staging.www.wcsu.edu and clicking on the WestConnduit link.

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Should I bring my own computer?

You do not need to bring your own computer. However, a laptop with wireless capability can be useful. In case you do not own a computer, WCSU has a number of computer facilities available for student use. Some are open as early as 8am, and close as late as 11pm. Some are open around the clock. You can find more information about the computer labs here: http://staging.www.wcsu.edu/technology/students/mt-wscc.asp. You can also learn more about the 24 hour labs here: http://staging.www.wcsu.edu/technology/students/24specs.asp

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I want to purchase a computer to bring to WCSU.  What should I buy?

Almost any new desktop or laptop computer purchased today from one of the leading computer manufacturers (IBM, Apple, Dell, Compaq, Gateway, etc.) should be more than adequate for basic student use on campus.

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Is WCSU Wireless?

Western Connecticut State University offers fast and reliable wireless network access to students, faculty, and staff on the Westside and Midtown campuses. For locations and more information, visit https://support.wcsu.edu/?ht_kb=which-university-network-do-i-connect-to. To use the wireless network, your laptop, tablet, or other mobile device must be equipped with a wireless network adapter. WCSU’s wireless network uses SSIDs of “Western”, “Western-Student”, and Western-BYOD” for easy connection. You will be prompted to log in using your WCSU Windows account credentials after connecting to one of the wireless networks.

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I am not very computer savvy. Where can I get help?

The general computer centers, located in room 117 of the Westside Classroom Building, the third floor of the Westside Campus Center, and at Midtown on the first floor of the Haas Library, employ student lab assistants who can provide assistance based on their individual knowledge. However, students needing extensive help should visit the Student Technology Training Center (STTC) in room 225 of the Student Center on the Midtown campus. More information about the STTC can be found at: http://staging.www.wcsu.edu/sttc.

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