Top seven reasons to come to orientation 

In-person Academic Orientation is your opportunity to learn what your experience as a student will be like. You’ll also learn about program expectations, meet your dean, associate dean, program coordinator and faculty team, while connecting with your peers! Orientation is on Jan. 4 in Barrie and Orillia, Jan. 5 in Orangeville, Jan. 8 in Muskoka and Owen Sound and Jan. 11 in South Georgian Bay.  Here are seven reasons to check it out.


1. Make friends

Between Head Start, Academic Orientation, and the first day of classes, there are so many opportunities to meet new people and make some great friends.

january orientation group photo

2. Have fun!

Whether you’re connecting on campus, taking part in fun activities, or exploring places off campus, you’re bound to have a great time at orientation!

Two students at Orientation with Georgian-branded thundersticks and face paint

3. Connect with profs

At your Academic Orientation, you’ll have a chance to meet your professors and ask questions about the semesters ahead.

Three students with professor Howard Bloom

4. Find your way around

Optional tours will be available at some campuses, or you can explore the halls on your own. By the end of the day, you’ll feel more at home.

A peer mentor's back, with students asking her questions

5. Free stuff

Depending on which Georgian campus you’re attending, you can enjoy either a free breakfast or lunch. Who doesn’t like free stuff?!

Students eating candy floss at Orientation

6. Get things done!

Get things done so you can start your journey at Georgian like ordering your ONEcard and textbooks, checking out your classrooms and learning about parking

Tip: Order your ONEcard ahead of time (pick up will be available at Barrie, Orillia and Owen Sound campuses). You need your ONEcard for many different services and supports around campus. Outside of campus, your ONEcard can also provide you with discounts, benefits, and more!

Two volunteers at the Georgian vendor fair

7. Learn about your town

If you’re new to your campus community, Growler’s Market will be at the Barrie and Orillia campuses and offer a ton of helpful information about your new home.

A row of ask me volunteers in the Barrie Campus gym, with students in the background

This post was originally published in Aug. 2019 and updated in Jan. 2024.

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