One of the best ways of transitioning to college life is to participate in a Pre-Orientation program at Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ÊÓƵ. 

Whether it's kayaking, visiting the beautiful landscapes in Wisconsin, tapping into your creative juices, or exploring intentional rituals, meet peers with similar interests and goals over 4 days.

Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ÊÓƵ Pre-Orientation 

  • Programs provide opportunities to help you learn things about yourself that can be applied to your first year at Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ÊÓƵ.
  • The experiences are designed to inspire connection, leave students energized, emotionally balanced, and mentally focused. 
  • Pre-Orientation takes place just before the required Welcome Week activities for all new students. 
  • To make programs meaningful experiences, registration is capped at 20 students or less.

Register for a Pre-Orientation Program!

  • Registration Open: May 18, 2024.
  • Applications Close: July 18, 2024 (11:59pm).
  • Accepted Applicants Notified: July 19, 2024.
  • Program Dates: September  4-7, 2024.
  • Cost to participate: $150 (Financial assistance is available and can be requested in the application form.)

** Due to overlapping programming, fall athletes, new international students, and students that participate in Summer Institute will NOT be able to participate in a Pre-Orientation Experience.

ritual circle

RITU@L Retreat

Roadmap of Intentional Practices for Traversing the Unknown @ Lawrence

RITU@L is open to all students and offers a gentle transition to life at Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ÊÓƵ:

  • Explore simple practices for life balance (journaling, meditation, cooking, art, nature walks, etc.)
  • Transform ordinary habits into intentional practices
  • Gain control, minimize stress, find peace
Students in front of Drew Street Wall Mural they painted for Pre-Orientation Experience

Street Art Squad

Design and paint a 104-foot mural overlooking Drew Street

  • Virtual collaboration before arrival
  • On-campus design and painting with staff assistance
  • All materials provided
  • Opportunities for other times of connection (public art tours, evening connection activities, etc.)
Students standing by canoes on a lakeshore at 2024 Sylvania Land and Sea Pre-orientation experience

Land and Sea

Make a 3.5-hour trek north to discover the natural beauty of the  at a .

  • Canoe, fish, and camp
  • Evening campfire, meals, and community building
  • Swimming is not required but helpful; comfort in water with PFD essential