8 a.m. to 2 p.m. EDT
We’re excited to have you join us for University Orientation. Participation is encouraged, as it is a vital part of the start to your successful BGSU journey. Throughout the program, you’ll learn more about the BGSU community, academic and co-curricular expectations and opportunities to shape your experience.
Orientation is a half-day program. There is a lot of information to cover about your transition! Expect to be on campus from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. EDT.
Prepare for Orientation
What to Bring to Orientation
Throughout the day, you will be traveling between buildings across campus so it's important you come prepared for the weather.
- A jacket or sweater – Even in the summer, it can get cool sitting in the air conditioned rooms!
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Umbrella or poncho
- A bag or backpack
- One of the following forms of identification (you will need this in order to pick up your BG1 Card):
- Valid state-issued driver’s license with photo
- State-issued photo ID card
- Passport with photo
- Military ID card
It's also a good idea to check your To Do List in MyBGSU. You may also need to bring a copy of the following documentation from College Credit Plus, or courses taken at another institution, if you are currently enrolled in classes and have not submitted an official transcript to the Office of Admissions:
We can't wait to meet you!
Check-in for Orientation begins at 8 a.m. in the Bowen-Thompson Student Union (BTSU). Please arrive no later than 9 a.m. EDT. All Orientation guest parking will be free in parking lots 7 as long as you pre-register your license plate. Overflow parking will also be available acorss the street (Thurstin) in Lot E.
We have put together a list of resources to help you with your travel to BGSU, including transportation options and overnight accommodations on our Travel & Accommodations web page.
Important note for guests: You are encouraged to pre-register family members and guests to avoid unnecessary delays. If you need to add a guest, please contact us at orientation@bgsu.edu or 419-372-0353 for assistance.
- 8-9 a.m.
- Check-in will take place in the Bowen-Thompson Student Union (BTSU).
- After check-in, you will also have the opportunity to have your photo taken for your BG1 Card if needed. Submit a photo before you arrive.
- Visit the Campus Resource Fair – The resource fair is your opportunity to connect with 30+ campus departments and organizations in one spot on campus.
- 9-9:15 a.m. Orientation Welcome Session
- 9:15-9:45 a.m. Student Success Session
- 10-10:30 a.m. Student Panel
- 10:45-11:15 a.m. Students and guests separate into breakout sessions
- STUDENTS – Small Group Sessions
- GUESTS – Supporting Your Transfer Student
- 11:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Community of Care
- 12-2 p.m. Optional Offerings
- Academic Advising Drop-Ins
- Campus Resource Fair (until 12:30 p.m.)
- Meet with a Life Design Coach
- Lunch
- Money Matters (Financial Aid/Bursar Appointments)
- Academic Advising Drop-Ins
Visit the Campus Resource Fair
Everyone is encouraged to explore the department information tables to get questions answered and learn about programs, resources and support available to BGSU students.
Special Accomodations
Facilities used for Orientation are barrier free. Accessible parking is available in parking lots for guests who properly display a current state-issued disability placard in accordance with Ohio Revised Code. Please notify us of your needs for accommodations at least one week prior to your arrival by returning to your online reservation, emailing orientation@bgsu.edu, or calling our office at 419-372-0353.
To our guests with disabilities, please indicate if you need special services, assistance or appropriate modifications to fully participate in this event by contacting Accessibility Services at access@bgsu.edu or 419-372-8495 prior to the event.
Updated: 05/06/2025 03:42PM