What typically happens during college onboarding?

I'm a high school junior thinking about what to expect when I start college. Can someone explain what the college onboarding process is usually like? I want to be prepared for that transition when the time comes.

Typically, the onboarding process begins once a student has committed to a specific college or university, and it goes on until you physically join the institution. It's all about getting you acquainted with the school and prepared for the start.

Firstly, after you've accepted an offer, you'll likely receive a welcoming packet either online or through mail. This packet will contain general information about your school, next steps to take, deadlines to be aware of, housing information if you intend to live on campus, and details about things like placement tests, if required. Its purpose is to ensure that you have all the detailed information you'll need to get started.

You're also going to complete a lot of paperwork during this process. You'll have to complete forms for housing contracts, meal plans, health services, and more. You'll also be required to submit documents like your final high school transcripts and immunizations records. It's crucial to adhere to the deadlines for these to avoid any last-minute hassles.

Registration for classes often happens during the summer before college starts. You may have to meet with an academic advisor remotely to discuss your course schedule or you may receive recommendations based on your indicated area of study.

The onboarding process also involves setting up your student account for the college’s online portal. This portal will be your one-stop destination for important notices, academic information, and access to resources like course registration, your college email, the library resources and more.

And finally, most colleges host an orientation for all new students. These orientations typically happen a few days before classes start. This is your opportunity to get familiarized with the campus, meet fellow newcomers, learn about campus resources, and engage in fun activities designed by the institution.

By the end of the onboarding process, you should feel reasonably familiar with the school and what your first few days will entail. Keep in mind that every school is slightly different, so their onboarding process may vary. Thankfully, schools do their best to make the process as clear as possible. Just make sure to keep an open line of communication with your school during this transition time, and don't hesitate to ask questions if you're unsure about anything.