Parent/Family Orientation Program

Welcome to the golden bear community!

Maybe you are about to become a college parent for the first time, or maybe you've been one for years. No matter the stage you're in, we know that selecting a university for your child and supporting them through their journey is one of the most important things you'll do! 

The KU Parent/Family Orientation Program is an optional, separate program on the same date and time as your student's orientation. Your student can register you when they sign up for their required orientation.

Free meal tickets will be included for 1 guest (parent/family member) per student. Students are able to register more than 1 guest, but additional guests will be asked to cover a $10 cost per person if they choose to eat in the dining hall. Speak to your student about registering and review the dates/times available here. 

Note: There is not a separate parent/family program for transfer students, but you are more than welcome to bring a guest to your transfer orientation!

Family Orientation FAQs

  • What is covered during the parent/family orientation?

    Topics covered at Parent/Family Orientation include:

    • Paying for college
    • Academics
    • Housing/residence life, and dining 
    • Student services
    • And more!
  • Am I required to attend parent/family orientation?

    The Parent/Family Orientation is an optional program. If you have an older child in college, this program may repeat topics you are familiar with such as financial aid, living on campus, and academics. Please feel free to explore KU's campus or visit our amazing downtown area while your student attends their required orientation.

  • If I have already sent a student through college, is it still worth attending?

    This is completely up to you! We have had some parents who have found this to be a lot of information they know, but we have also had many who were able to learn a lot from it! If you have sent a student to college but this is your first time working with Kutztown, you may learn a lot of helpful information!

    If you feel that you have a good knowledge of the college process, there may be some reptitive information. Feel free to walk campus, go into town, or take a break during sessions that you find to be familiar!

  • Will I get to see my student at all during their orientation day?

    You will not be with your student during orientation, but rest assured — you will be reunited with them at the end of the day! At orientation, we aim to give students a sense of independence that mirrors what they will experience on our campus.

    This step isn’t just symbolic — as research finds that supporting student independance early in college results in higher rates of success both in and out of the classroom. We believe this is a valuable and necessary part of preparing your student for the next stage.

  • Will there be food available at orientation?

    Yes, you will have access to refreshments (such as coffee, tea, pastries, etc.) for breakfast, and lunch will be served at the dining hall later in the day. Lunch is included free with registration for 1 guest, any additional guests will be asked to pay a $10 lunch fee.

    Additional food is also available at other on campus locations such as Starbucks, the KU Campus Store, and vending machines in buildings.

To Do Before Orientation:

Refer to the New Student Checklist for a comprehensive list of items to complete before starting at Kutztown.

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