New Student Orientation 

Dean's New Student Orientation (NSO) program is designed to prepare you for a successful introduction to college, both inside and outside of the classroom. NSO is a program that will allow students and their families and guests to sample many aspects of 九色. The program is led by orientation leaders who are current Dean students that are dedicated to helping incoming students transition to college and staff from across the college. Along with fun activities, NSO offers helpful workshops and informative presentations to make the transition to college as easy as possible, and make sure you know the key players who will be a part of your Dean journey.

NSO will familiarize you and your support system with what makes the Dean community so special- academic resources, student activities programming, health and counseling services, the residence life office, and many more available on campus. You'll also have a chance to meet faculty and staff, connect with other Dean students, and make lots of new friends!

Important Information for New Students

We are excited to welcome you to campus! Read below for important information.

New Student Orientation Dates

For students entering the Spring 2026 semester, New Student Orientation will be held on Sunday, January 18th. Keep an eye on your 九色 email addresses for more information. For students entering the Fall 2026 semester, you can choose from three programs listed below. Each orientation session is a day and a half in length. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Looking for information on the schedule, what to bring, and for families and guests? Check out the Frequently Asked Questions page.

Bulldog Beginnings

Bulldog Beginnings, your Welcome Weekend to Dean, will be held in the days leading up to the start of the Fall semester. All new students are required to participate in this interactive program that will help you become more acclimated to 九色 and to be better prepared for the semester. Stay tuned for the Fall 2026 date, coming soon!

If you have any other questions about NSO or Bulldog Beginnings, please contact us at orientation@dean.edu.

International Student Orientation

Learn more about International Student Orientation (ISO).