We recognize that the transition to the first year of college can be quite an adjustment to your personal, academic and social life.

The First-Year Experience begins before you arrive on campus and continues well beyond your first year.

Navigating Rensselaer consists of a two-day on campus orientation session for both students and families (in July and August) and on-line access to informational and campus-based assistance throughout the summer.

Student Orientation is designed to aid new students in their transition, integrate them into the life of the Rensselaer community, and introduce these students to the broad opportunities available at Rensselaer.

Essential components of the orientation program include an introduction to the academic and student life, opportunities for new students to interact with faculty, staff, and continuing students; and the opportunity to meet with an academic adviser and register for classes.

Orientation provides information to each student’s immediate support group (e.g. parents, guardians, spouse, etc.)

After orientation, students are encouraged to stay connected via the Internet. The First-Year Experience Web site is an excellent way to build upon the knowledge, confidence and friendships many students acquire at their student orientation session through interactive bulletin boards and answers to frequently asked questions.

Navigating Rensselaer & Beyond is a five-day program packed with fun, challenging activities, and interactive ways to connect with others, organized around three general themes:

• Adventure/Wilderness
• Cultural/Historical
• Community Service

Students are assigned activities based on personal preference, helping to ensure that they’ll build groups of friends and get to know classmates who share similar interests.

Family Programs
Rensselaer is committed to keeping parents and families of Rensselaer students active in the campus community. All family members are encouraged to join our e-mail lists and become involved in our parents association, Parents of Rensselaer.

We hold Family Weekend during the fall semester. It’s an excellent opportunity for parents and families to get to know the Rensselaer community.

Learn more about the First-Year Experience.