First-Year Experience

Fall & Winter Term Orientation

Orientation at Wartburg introduces our incoming class to their new community while preparing new students for success beyond the first year. Students are expected to attend all activities and programming, where important information will be shared.

During orientation, first-year students get a head start on their academics with their SEM 100 course. This course serves as a home base for first-year students and aims to assist them in their transition to college life by encouraging their involvement, both curricular and co-curricular, in activities and experiences that will enrich personal growth and development and be sustained throughout their academic career.

Orientation groups will consist of the same students enrolled in each SEM 100 section. We can’t wait to get to know you at Orientation!

Move-In & Orientation Schedule

Orientation Leaders

Remember to get Knight Ready by completing your clearance checklist before you come to campus. Move-in will be much smoother if you have these items completed — and they’re easier to do when the documents you need aren’t back at home!

Knight Ready Checklist

For more information:
Kim Bock, Director of First-Year Experience & Retention
kim.bock@wartburg.edu
319-352-8759

About Orientation

Goals of Orientation

Connect with new friends, upperclassmen, faculty, and staff.
Get acquainted with the mission, programs, and services of the college.
Gain support for your exciting transition to college life.
See for yourself that Wartburg is the right choice for you.

Do I have to attend all the sessions during Orientation?

Important information is shared at all activities and programs throughout orientation, so we expect you to attend all four days. Once you get started, you won’t want to miss out on anything Orientation has to offer!

What’s the point of going to Orientation?

Orientation allows you the opportunity to connect with new friends, upperclassman, faculty and staff. While doing this, you’ll get a comprehensive look at Wartburg College to learn more about your residence hall, resources on campus, involvement opportunities, and skills to adjust and thrive at your new home!

What will I be doing during Orientation?

Orientation offers four full day of activities to help you get to know your fellow Knights and campus better. You will have the chance to mingle with those in your residence hall, meet with your advisor and other students in your academic program, and learn about class locations. Orientation also includes a unique convocation and Knighting Ceremony! See the schedule.

When will I have classes over Orientation?

SEM 100 is an introductory course for all new students at Wartburg College. This course assists you in your transition to college by encouraging involvement that will enrich personal growth and development throughout your years on campus. Orientation groups will consist of the same students enrolled in each SEM 100 course, with the actual course meeting twice during Orientation.

What if I’m not able to attend Orientation?

Should an important life event keep you from attending Orientation, please contact the Student Life Office to discuss your unique situation.

What should I bring to Orientation?

The most important thing to bring with you to Orientation is a positive attitude! The Orientation Staff has worked hard to develop a series of programs that give you a jumpstart to your academic year. Get the most out of the experience by engaging fully in the activities provided.

When does Orientation start and finish?

Programming will begin Saturday with New Student Move-In and Orientation check-in from 8 a.m. to noon. Orientation is four days and ends Tuesday evening. Classes begin the next morning, so you will have plenty of time that evening to rest up for the exciting year ahead!