10 Things I Wish I Knew Before University of Illinois at Chicago orientation

As an incoming transfer student at the University of Illinois-Chicago, I attended a one day orientation. I am the only one of my friends who is a transfer student and I wish I had someone tell what to expect at the orientation. Luckily, if you are transferring or just entering UIC you can read my article on what to expect. Here are the best University of Illinois at Chicago orientation tips. 

1. Expect a full day on campus

The orientation begins at 8 a.m. and does not end until 4 p.m. I am not a morning person so I made sure to get enough sleep the night before. The day consists of walking all over campus (FYI: UIC is a large campus) so do wear comfortable shoes.

2. Be a prepared scholar

By being prepared I mean bring a pen and some paper. I know this sounds obvious, but majority of the incoming students were just tentatively listening. However, there was several power points with an abundance of information.

3. Bring a parent or sibling

Personally, my mom decided to join me so I at least had someone to accompany me. Although, if you decide to bring a guest you will be separated from them.

4. Definitely register before the orientation

I began to register for classes around mid-November and most of the classes I needed were full. I definitely recommend registering to classes right away because they do fill up. Moreover, a part of the orientation is dedicated to meeting with a general advisor and a major advisor. My general advisor went over the classes I already enrolled in and the classes I still needed for the up coming semester.

5. Be camera ready

This is the day that your student ID picture will be taken. My old school ID was a disaster and so embarrassing. I made sure I looked cute for the picture, so for the next 2 1/2 years I have a presentable ID card. University of Illinois at Chicago orientation will surely be remembered by your ID photo.

6. Food

This may seem irrelevant to orientation, but it is an all day event. I made the mistake of only consuming coffee and skipping the lunch period. They do provide breakfast like fruit and pastries and for lunch they offer cafeteria food. If this does not sound pleasant, make sure to have a good breakfast beforehand.

7. Transfer orientation=individual experience

Transfer orientation is an individual experience compared to freshman orientation where it might be a two day event with group discussions. There is chances throughout the day to talk to other peers and make friends, but is a more fast paced event.

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8. Transportation

UIC is located in downtown Chicago, so there are various options to get there. I brought my mom so she drove to the location, which does offer parking. If you are relying on public transportation, there is a train stop near the campus and several bus options as well.

9. The campus tour

Throughout orientation the volunteer leaders took us to various buildings for each activity, however, I did not get a detailed tour of the school. As I mentioned before, UIC is large campus so go back another day and try to explore the campus.

10. Take advantage of the offices

All the main student offices such as financial aid or commuter center are open at the time to answer questions. I made sure to go to financial aid to talk about my account as well as to make sure that everything was fine.

Let us know what you think about University of Illinois at Chicago orientation in the comments below!

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