New Student Orientation is required for all incoming first Year and transfer students to Wells College. You will register for orientation in your personal application portal. If you cannot make a selection on dates yet and need more information, please email orientation@wells.edu so that a member of the orientation team can connect with you to discuss your options.
Check back here often as we continue to add new details. We're looking forward to meeting you!
Orientation Schedule
Two orientation events are being held this year. The first session is July 7 & 8th. The second session is July 21 & 22nd. The schedule is the same for both sessions.
12:00 to 1:30 pm | Check-in & Lunch |
12:30 to 1:45 pm | Student residence hall open for move in Family/Guests with residence hall lodging open for move in |
2:00 pm | Welcome |
2:30 – 5:15 pm | Students - Making your place Families - Knowing our place |
2:30 – 3:15 pm | Supporting Student Success: The partnership with Wells |
3:30 – 4:45 pm | Social/Regional Activity |
5:00 pm | Parent networking and bookstore open |
5:30 pm | Outdoor BBQ for families, guest, students |
7:15 pm | A Night at the Boathouse - Entertainment and food for all |
8:30 am | Breakfast | |
Student program | Family and Guest program | |
9 am to 12:00 om |
Rotating Sessions:
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Rotating Sessions:
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12:00 - 1:00 pm | Off Campus Field Trips: Finding this place | Luncheon. Bookstore open |
1:15 to 3:15 pm |
Resource Fair/Passport Prize program
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3:45 pm | Students return and reunite with Families and Guests - Prize Drawings | |
4:00 pm | Teatime and the Bells: Traditions at Wells Send-off - Key Drop-Off/Check Out |
Please Note
The schedule of activities and events for student orientation program is subject to change at any time. Please check back here regularly for updates.
Questions and Answers about Orientation
Wells College values orientation to facilitate each student’s best transition to college. Research has proven that orientation is key for both first-year and long-term college success and graduation, so expecting attendance at this overnight event purposeful on our part! Each event is specifically included to ensure when you leave, you have a strong foundation and are ready to begin classes and build your community at Wells.
Orientation is a family experience. We welcome you and your closest supporters — whether a family member, mentor, or friend — to Wells to join you in helping prepare for the college experience.
Student orientation registration includes housing in an on-campus residence and all scheduled meals during the orientation program. Registration also provides an option for your family or guests to register for housing in an on-campus residence during the orientation program.
Your housing includes linens for your room, though you may want to bring your own pillow and a larger bath towel.
We also offer this additional list of items to review as you are packing to join us in July. This is not intended to be exhaustive and there may be other items you would wish to include. We hope this is helpful start.
Make sure to check the forecast! You’ll need to dress appropriately for Aurora’s climate and the weather conditions during orientation. Also note that orientation can involve a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. You might want to have layers as well, because you will be in and out of various temperatures and climates. For your consideration:
- Comfortable Shoes
- Light or Heavy Jacket (Depending on the Weather Forecast)
- Sun protection eyewear and/or hat
- Jeans and shorts
- Comfortable shirts
- Shower Shoes (Slides, Flip Flops)
- Pajamas
- A change of clothes for Day 2
Other items to consider:
- Umbrella
- Mobile Device and Charger
- Toiletries and Personal Hygiene Items
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
- Hair-Styling Tools
- Soap and Shampoo
- Deodorant
- Eyeglasses/corrective lenses and care supplies
- Fan
- Bug spray and sunscreen
- Over-the-counter or prescription medication
When you register for your summer orientation session, you will be provided the opportunity to indicate information Wells needs to know about any dietary needs and accommodations that will help maximize your experience and time with us.
We understand that making time for travel and participation in Orientation at Wells may present challenges for students and/or their guests during the summer. We want to assist and support you. If you have any questions or concerns with your ability to either travel or attend (or both), please email Orientation@wells.edu directly and a member of our Orientation team will contact you to learn more about your circumstances.
We’re located on Cayuga lake, halfway between Ithaca and Auburn.
See our directions on how to get here.
Still Have Questions?
If you still have any questions, please drop a line to our Student Affairs team at orientation@wells.edu. We're here to help!
Need information about your first semester?
After orientation, follow up on all the new student information by visiting our new student page.