We’re excited to have you join us for University Orientation. Participation is required, as it is a vital part of the start to your successful college journey. Throughout the program you’ll learn more about the BGSU community, academic and co-curricular expectations and opportunities to shape your experience. 

Virtual orientation will begin online at 9:45 a.m. EDT through Zoom sessions. There will be a variety of sessions, opportunities to connect with staff, and time to get your questions answered. Sessions will conclude by 11:15 a.m., however you will have an advising appointment that is assigned to you that afternoon and you may have other sessions to attend if you are part of specific groups.

Setup & Login

Your Virtual New Student Orientation will begin at 9:45 a.m. EDT. Please log in early to ensure you have a good connection before the day begins. 

Before the day of orientation:

  1. Make sure your computer is up to date. You don't want unexpected updates to slow you down.
  2. Test and make sure you can log in to the following BGSU accounts. If you have an issue, please contact ITS for support
  3. Download Zoom and create an account. It is also important to make sure your device has the most up-to-date version of Zoom downloaded if you already have an account set up.
    • Family & Guests: If your student will be using your Zoom account, please make sure your account name is updated with your student's name before orientation begins.    
  4. Review the schedule so you are prepared for orientation.

Helpful tip: We recommend using a desktop computer or laptop to attend virtual orientation to ensure the best experience. If you are using a laptop with unreliable WiFi, we recommend plugging your laptop directly into your internet using an ethernet cable to ensure the fastest and most reliable connection. 

Day of orientation:

  • Set your computer up in a quiet, distraction-free location that will be the ideal place for you to participate in virtual orientation.
  • Have your BGSU email and password easily accessible throughout the entire day.
  • It's important that your device is connected to a power source for the entire event so you do not lose battery during orientation. 
  • Limit the number of people using your network so you can ensure high video and audio quality.
  • Schedule-of-the-Day

    *Times and sessions are subject to change.

    • 9:45-10 a.m. | Log in and make sure your computer is set up and ready for orientation to begin.
    • 10-10:10 a.m. | Welcome Session
    • 10:10-10:40 a.m. | Student Success Session
    • 10:40-11:10 a.m. | Community of Care
    • 11:15-12 p.m. | Breakout Sessions
    • 12 p.m.-4 p.m. | Advising Appointments

    Required Sessions:

    1. Aviation
    2. FLY Program
    3. Pathway Program
    4. Student Athlete Services

    Recommended Sessions:

    1. Meet with a Life Design Coach
    2. Money Matters (Financial Aid/Bursar Appointments)
    3. Thompson Scholarships Program

    Special Accommodations

    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 dss@bgsu.edu or 419-372-8495 prior to the event.

    Updated: 05/09/2025 12:20PM