New Student and Family Orientation

Fall 2026 New Student and Family Orientation Dates

Date	Location	Start Time
Thursday, August 20	Newburgh	Welcome Begins: 4:15 P.M.
Friday, August 21	Middletown	Welcome Begins: 4:15 P.M.
Saturday, August 22	Middletown	Welcome Begins: 10:15 A.M.

Get ready for your journey at SUNY Orange!

SUNY Orange’s New Student and Family Orientation program is designed to welcome, inform, and prepare students for a successful start to their college experience. During orientation, students learn about academic expectations, campus resources, student life opportunities, and strategies for success both inside and outside the classroom. Family members are invited to participate in dedicated sessions that provide guidance on how to support their student’s transition, understand college processes, and serve as partners in their success. The program is led by trained Peer Orientation Leaders,  current students who guide participants and foster meaningful connections. After one semester, returning students may apply to become Peer Orientation Leaders and offer the same guidance to their first semester peers.

Why Should You Attend?

At SUNY Orange, attending New Student and Family Orientation is one of the most important steps you can take to start strong. Orientation gives you the opportunity to ask questions in real time, reduce first-day anxiety, and feel confident navigating campus before classes even begin. It’s also your chance to begin building community—connecting with classmates, meeting student leaders, and feeling a true sense of belonging from day one. Students and families who attend are better prepared, more informed, and ready to make the most of everything SUNY Orange has to offer.

---

Become a Peer Orientation Leader

Interested in becoming a Peer Orientation Leader?

Peer Orientation Leaders (POLs) at SUNY Orange are student leaders who play a vital role in welcoming and supporting new students and their families during New Student and Family Orientation for both Fall and Spring programs. Selected for their leadership, communication skills, and campus involvement, POLs guide small groups, share their personal experiences, and help incoming students feel comfortable and confident as they begin their college journey.

POLs serve as mentors and role models, representing the college with professionalism and school pride while fostering an inclusive and engaging environment. In addition to leading orientation sessions, they participate in training, collaborate with campus partners, and build lasting connections with peers. Serving as a Peer Orientation Leader is a valuable leadership opportunity that strengthens public speaking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills while making a meaningful impact on the campus community.

Interested students can apply and may be invited to interview with our Staff.