Summer Orientation Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do all new students have to attend Summer Orientation?

A: All first-year students are required to attend Summer Orientation.  You will benefit greatly from attending orientation because it is during this time that you will enroll in classes for the fall semester. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to take care of many logistical details, such as having your picture taken for your student ID card. You will also be able to familiarize yourself with campus and meet some of your future classmates.


Q: I live far away from Truman – do I have to come to Orientation?

A:  Yes, however, if you live in a state other than Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, or Nebraska or were accepted after June 1, 2008, you have the option of attending the August session before Truman Week starts.  International students will also attend this session.  If you believe that you qualify, please contact the Office of Admission.


Q: I don’t know anyone. Can I attend by myself?

A: Of course, that’s the idea! Orientation is designed to help you meet people, starting with fellow students. Take a chance by introducing yourself to people during orientation. You’ll probably find that a lot of people, like you, don’t know anyone on campus and are looking to make new friends or even just someone to say hello to.


Q: When and how will I be able to sign up for a Summer Orientation session?

A: You should register online for a Summer Orientation session preference as soon as you receive instructions by mail (to be sent on a rolling basis to accepted first-year students beginning in late March). 


Q: How do I know which session to register for?

A: All sessions will contain the same information, so please request the session with open seats which works best for you.  Please do not make travel arrangements until you receive your session selection confirmation at the end of the online registration process.


Q:  Is there a benefit to attending an earlier session?

A:  Choosing an earlier session will not give you more selection for classes. 


Q: What does it cost?

A: There is no additional student fee assessed for Summer Orientation.


Q: Do my parents/guests have to come with me to Summer Orientation?

A: It is optional for your parents or guardians to attend Summer Orientation.  While at orientation, parents or guardians participate in a parallel program during which they have the opportunity to have their questions answered about various University resources (Student Financial Services, Health and Wellness, Student Life, etc.). All of the programs are targeted for parents/guardians.


Q: Do parents/guests have to pay?

A: There is no fee for your parents or guardians to attend Parent Orientation.


Q: Where will I stay during Summer Orientation?

A: If you are interested in spending the night in Kirksville, you have the option of staying overnight in a residence hall for a cost of $20.  This optional overnight in a residence hall is available for the following Summer Orientation sessions:

Friday, June 6th
        Optional overnight stay the evening of Friday, June 6th
 

Friday, June 20th
        Optional overnight stay the evening of Friday, June 20th

You and your parents/guardians may choose to stay in a local hotel.  Click here for a list of local hotels.


Q:  Can my parents/guardians stay in a residence hall?

A: For a cost of $40, your parents or guardians have the option of staying in a suite-style residence hall with a small living area and private bath for the following Summer Orientation sessions:

Friday, June 6th
        Optional overnight stay the evening of Friday, June 6th
 

Friday, June 20th
        Optional overnight stay the evening of Friday, June 20th

Parents or guardians must bring their own pillows and toiletries.  An alarm clock is also suggested.


Q: Where do my guests and I park?

A: You may park in any blue or green lot on campus, with the exception of handicap spaces.   For a campus map, click here.


Q: What do I do if I require special accommodations for a medical, physical or disability-related need? Will the University be able to provide for parents/guests who need special assistance?

A: We will do everything we can to make your visit to Truman for Summer Orientation a wonderful experience. For information regarding special needs accommodations for you or your guests, please contact Vicky Wehner at 660.785.4478 or vwehner@truman.edu.


Q: When do I take my foreign language and math placement exams?

A: Please take and submit all placement exams online a minimum of two weeks BEFORE your assigned Summer Orientation session.  Accepted students will have received information in March about accessing the online placement tests and the Pre-Orientation Questionnaire. 


Q: How does course registration work at orientation?

A: First-year students will meet in a small group with a faculty member and Orientation Leaders to design a schedule.  After having their tentative schedule approved by an academic advisor, they will register for classes on campus computers.


Q: When do I get my Truman ID?

A: You can get your ID picture taken at Summer Orientation and IDs can be picked up when you arrive on campus in August. 


Q: I am an international student. Should I attend Orientation?

A: Yes! Summer Orientation will be a vital resource for you, as there is important information for you to receive and things for you to do.  In addition to important information and fun stuff, it is a good chance to meet other students.  Because of travel considerations, you may register for the last orientation session on August 15.


Q: What if I apply late to Truman?

A: Students who are admitted after June 1, 2008 should contact the Office of Admission regarding registering for a Summer Orientation session.


Q: What should I wear?

A: Some of your activities will be indoors, some will be outdoors, so dress to suit the weather. You might like to consider some sensible shoes for walking as well.


Q: What should I bring?

A: Some pens and paper will be useful as you might need to take notes in the sessions or exchange email addresses with people you meet.  You might collect materials during the day, so bring a backpack or bag large enough to carry things home. 

If staying for the optional overnight, please bring a sleeping bag, a pillow, toiletries, an alarm clock, and a change of clothes.


Q: What happens next (after Summer Orientation)?

A: Move-In Day is scheduled for Sunday, August 17, 2008, and Truman Week will begin the following Monday.  From attending Summer Orientation you should have an idea of where to go, what to bring with you, what will happen, and meet people who will share the Truman experience with you.
 

For any further questions, please contact the Office of Admission.