Orientation Frequently Asked Questions
Below are a few frequently asked questions from incoming students and families.
What can I expect at Orientation?
Orientation is a strategically organized program designed for students to leave feeling comfortable with their arrival at Illinois Tech in the Fall and Spring semesters. While at Orientation, you will learn about the wide variety of student activities and services at Illinois Tech. There will be many opportunities to ask questions and to learn about the campus culture and the life of Illinois Tech students. You will possibly make some friends with incoming and current students, as well as an individual advising session with a faculty advisor in your major program.
What if I am an undecided major?
Being undecided is not something to worry about when entering Illinois Tech. There will be faculty advisors at Orientation specifically for undecided students. Illinois Tech encourages students to take the time to choose the major that is right for them and there are many resources available at Orientation as well as after your arrival on campus that can help you through this exploration process.
Do I need to attend Orientation if I have already spoken with my advisor?
It is great that you have already made contact with faculty on campus! However, there is much more than academic advising that goes into Orientation that we would not want you to miss out on. This includes information on housing, dining services, student activities, and many other resources. Unfortunately, an academic advisor may not know the answers to all the questions you have regarding other opportunities and resources on campus.
Another benefit of attending Orientation is that if you decide to attend Sessions I-VI your UPASS will be ready for you as soon as you move on to campus in August!
Who are the student Orientation Leaders?
The students on the Orientation staff go through a competitive application process in order to have the opportunity to assist incoming Illinois Tech students. Orientation programs selects students from different backgrounds including international students as well as differing majors, and involvement across campus. They are eager to answer all of their questions and have some fun with you in the process!
Why do I have to pay to attend Family Orientation?
Paying for Orientation allows Illinois Tech to provide meals in our Commons dining hall as well as staffing and other accommodations throughout your stay at Illinois Tech.
Who runs Orientation at Illinois Tech?
The Orientation program is run by the Office of Campus Life under the Division of Student Affairs and headed by Tricia Banach. She can be reached at orientation@iit.edu. She works closely with all of the academic colleges and resource offices on campus to provide an all encompassing view of Illinois Tech during your visit. The Orientation Leaders are also an intrincal part of orientation and are carefully selected campus leaders who will serve as mentors and friends through the process of becoming an Illinois Tech student. They provide a real student's perspective about what it is to be an Illinois Tech student.
Why does Orientation Matter?
There are many reasons as to why we believe Orientation is important to the success of our new students at Illinois Tech. Here are a few that you can look forward to when you attend!
Staff & Faculty Introductions – It’s all about the relationships, especially the ones that will be helping students along every step of the way from that first day to the final day at graduation.
Campus Tours – Familiarity with the campus gives students comfort. It’s beneficial to “see” where the computer lab, library and other important rooms are located. This is also when we spend time showing students how to navigate through the internal computer system, MyIIT.
Class Schedule Assistance – This is a great time for students to receive help answering questions about their class schedule.
Experience Campus Life – It’s a great time to see and feel what campus life is like!
Understand Expectations – We are a university that is serious about ensuring our students are successful while at Illinois Tech and once they graduate. It is important for new students to understand the expectations needed for graduation and beyond.
Make Friends – Some of the closest friends are the ones students meet at orientation. It’s important to have friends who can share this exciting journey with you. Who knows, you may meet your new best friend!
Jerry Hughes. (January 28, 2013 ). 6 Reasons Why Orientation Matters. In Globe University Blog. Retrieved February 18, 2013, from http://blogs.globeuniversity.edu/2013/01/28/6-reasons-why-orientation-matters/.
If you have any more questions please contact Tricia Banach, Coordinator of Campus Life and Orientation, at 312.567.3174 or orientation@iit.edu
Last modified: 05/22/2013 15:12:09
