Family & Student Supporter Orientation

You play a key role in your student’s college journey, which means Orientation is for you too.
As your student begins their transition to the University, you’ll learn what to expect, who to connect with, and how to support them with confidence. Families who attend often feel more informed, more connected, and better prepared.

You’ll hear from campus experts, explore key resources, and get tips you won’t want to miss. Family Orientation is a welcoming and informative experience designed specifically for student supporters.

Registration Details

Register for Family & Student Supporter Orientation

• Opens 48 hours after your student registers for Orientation

• Choose the same Orientation date as your student

• $50 per registrant (includes lunch and materials)

• Registration closes 3 business days before the session

• On-site registration is limited. Please register online to ensure availability

• Registration is non-refundable but can be transferred to another date or person

What to Expect

Throughout the program, you’ll:

• Attend informative sessions about housing, dining, safety, health, and more

• Connect with campus staff and fellow supporters

• Explore campus through tours and breakout sessions

• Learn how to support your student’s academic and personal success

Getting to Campus
Important: Major road construction on I-94 and University Avenue will likely impact your commute. We have created maps and directions with the best routes to campus. Please check the Parking and Transportation alerts page for the latest updates, and plan to give yourself extra time to get to campus.

Directions and Parking

• Park in East River Road Garage (385 East River Parkway, Minneapolis)

• Use the emailed QR code to receive a reduced parking rate (instructions are emailed two days prior to your Orientation date)

• Shuttle buses transport all participants to check-in

Check-in

• Check-in is between 8 and 9:30 a.m.

• Do not go directly to Northrop

• Students and families begin the day at the resource fair and welcome program

Accessibility & Accommodations

• Younger children: Orientation is not designed for younger children. If you plan to bring younger children, please call our office at 612-624-1979 for registration information.

• Translation services: If you or another registered guest needs language translation, we’re happy to provide this accommodation. Please email our office at [email protected] at least one week prior to your scheduled Orientation date.

• Disability accommodations: If you have a documented disability and would like to request accommodations — such as sign language interpreters or alternate formats — contact the Disability Resource Center at 612-626-1333 at least two weeks prior to Orientation.

• Mobility support: If you have a short-term disability (e.g., a broken leg) and would have difficulty walking long distances during Orientation, please contact our office at 612-624-1979 to arrange accommodations.

Family Orientation Schedules

Day 1:

Approximate schedule: 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. More details can be found below under the "Schedule" drop down menu.
Includes:

• Parking and luggage drop-off

• Orientation check-in and resource fair

• Campus welcome session

• Informational presentations (U Card, safety, Boynton Health, One Stop)

• Lunch

• College-specific sessions

• Breakout sessions (topics like finding a major, wellbeing, academic success, Fraternity & Sorority Life)

• Closing session

Students stay overnight in a residence hall (included, no extra cost)

Day 2: Optional

Come and go based on your interests
Activities include:

• Residence hall tours

• Guided and self-guided campus tours

• Visit the Public Safety Center

• One Stop open for drop-in help from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Please note: Supporters do not attend advising or course registration sessions. These are student-only experiences to promote independence with academic planning.

What to Bring

• Government-issued ID

• Credit or debit card for parking

• Notebook and pen

• Comfortable clothing and shoes

• Light sweater or jacket

• Umbrella in case of rain

New this year: 

Whether you're throwing a graduation party or just want to show off your Gopher pride, now’s your chance. We’re selling limited-edition Gopher yard signs for $25, available in person only during Orientation.

Where: Coffman Memorial Union (CMU), Ground Floor
When: 4 to 5:45 PM during Orientation days, Monday through Thursdays. Unfortunately, these are not available by mail.
Bonus: You are welcome to stop by before your Orientation if you want the sign in time for a graduation party.

Questions? Contact Orientation & Transition Experiences (OTE) at [email protected] or 612-624-1979