Q. What if I can’t attend Orientation?

A. This is the only opportunity for you to attend orientation and register for classes for the Spring 2009 semester. If you have a non-negotiable conflict, please call the Office of Student Activities at 617.573.8320. Orientation is the sole opportunity for new students to register for classes and meet with an advisor prior to the beginning of classes on January 12, 2009. 

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Q. What do I need to bring?

A. You should bring the following items with you:

1. A photo ID (state ID or license)
2. Pen and pencil
3. Comfortable shoes and warm clothes (Please check the weather before you arrive and plan accordingly, but remember that New England weather can be unpredictable!)
4. Health Information, if not already turned in (You must submit your complete immunization records prior to the start of the classes. Required immunizations include: Three doses of Hepatitiz B; Two doses of MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)--the first dose must have been given after your first birthday; and a dose of Tetanus/diphtheria within the last ten years. You also should bring your health insurance card if you are covered by your parents or by a policy you have purchased)
5. A lot of questions and a lot of energy!

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Q. Where and when do I report for my orientation?

A. Check-in for orientation is in the Donahue Cafe located in the basement level of the Donahue Building located at 41 Temple Street at 8:15 a.m. We are unable to provide parking, so please plan accordingly.  For a list of nearby parking garages, please click here. back to top^

Q. Is there an orientation program for parents and family members?

A. Yes! There is a separate program for parents and families on Tuesday, January 6th. For planning purposes, Family Orientation is a half-day program that runs separately from New Student and Transfer Orientation. It will be necessary to reserve your spot by clicking here. There is no fee for this program. If you have questions about Family Orientation, please do not hesitate to call the Office of Student Activities and Service Learning at 617.573.8320.

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Q. Do I need to bring my tuition payment?

A. Students who pay their deposit by December 4, 2008, are sent an invoice reflecting a due date of December 19, 2008. This invoice includes the amount of your financial aid award, which has already been deducted from your tuition balance. If you have made your payment in accordance with this schedule, a payment will not be due at orientation. Students who have deposited after December 4, 2008, are required to pay 50% of their anticipated tuition and residence charages (if applicable) at the time of registration. Use these links for more information about tuition rates and payment options. If you have applied for financial aid and have not received an award letter, you should contact the Office of Financial Aid to inquire about your award status.

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Q. Can I bring a guest to the orientation program or overnight?

A. Unfortunately, since we expect over 100 incoming students, you will not be permitted to have guests for the duration of the orientation program. Please keep in mind that your family members are invited to participate in the Family Orientation Program.

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Q. Which orientation program is for international students?

A. International students who use the F-1 or J-1 visa to attend Suffolk participate in 2 orientation programs.  Students first attend International Student Orientation .  This  session offers information about the student visa, obtaining work authorization and adjusting to U.S. culture.  This session is required for all new students.  Following the International program, students then complete the University wide program.  For additional information, write to oia@suffolk.edu

If you cannot attend orientation, you must visit the Center for International Education at 73 Tremont Street to submit a local address, your passport and I-20 (or DS20-19) during your first week at Suffolk.  Students who do not provide this information to the CIE will lose their F-1 or J-1 student visa for failure to report arrival to the university immigration office.  Immigration advisors may be contacted at: 617.573.8154 and via email: oia@suffolk.edu.

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Q. Will food be provided?

A. We will provide a continental breakfast and lunch on both days of Orientation at no additional cost.

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Q. Why do I have to take placement exams?

A. Writing and math are basic elements of your college education. Placing you in the right course helps to ensure that you will have a positive experience instead of a frustrating struggle or a boring revisit to material you have already mastered. Our placement exams are designed to provide you and your advisor with the best options for you to satisfy these important degree requirements.

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Q. Will overnight accommodations be provided?

A. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide housing for new students participating in Orientation.

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Q. Will I meet with an advisor and finalize my class schedule during Orientation?

A. Yes! You will go home with your class schedule after meeting with an academic advisor.

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