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The New Student Orientation program facilitates the transition of the first-years into Grinnell College by preparing them for the educational opportunities Grinnell offers while assisting their integration into the intellectual, cultural, and social climate of the College. The five-day program is a collaborative effort by students, staff, and faculty.

Students are welcomed into their residence halls by student and residential life staff beginning at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 23. The remainder of the day is spent acclimating to campus by meeting roommates, students, faculty, and administrative staff and attending to academic and personal needs. (A complete New Student Orientation schedule will be sent in the mail.)

Parents and families are viewed as vital to the students’ successful transition and retention in college. Since its inception, New Student Orientation has evolved from being largely a social event into an event that prepares students for the first day of their liberal arts education.

Since Grinnell is a small community, accommodations are limited, and parents are strongly advised to make arrangements early. Parents and families are responsible for their own transportation and lodging arrangements.