Orientation - Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I attend Orientation?
By attending Orientation, you will consult with an academic advisor, schedule classes, activate your student email account, secure a photo ID card, parking pass, and much, much more. Orientation attendees become familiar with the entire campus and all of its services, from residence halls to financial aid. New students and parents will also learn about the institution's important calendars, policies and tools and will meet current students, faculty, staff and administrators.
Why do transfer students need to attend Orientation?
Even though you may have attended an Orientation program at your previous institution, the rules, policies and procedures at FSU and PC&TC will differ from that of other institutions. This program will not only introduce you to our rules, policies and procedures but will also allow you the opportunity to discover important campus services and office locations that will help you complete your educational career with us.
Are there special programs designated just for adult, transfer and/or readmitted students?
Yes. Evening Orientations have been designed specifically for adult, transfer and readmitted students. These abbreviated programs will introduce you to academic policies, financial aid processes, and will help you to understand our procedures/policies. It will also allow you the opportunity to discover important campus services and office locations that will help you complete your educational career. Students invited to an Evening Orientation may register to attend any of our full-day Summer Orientations instead, should a daytime program be preferable. Adult, transfer and readmitted students will be sent an Evening Orientation invitation, but can call/email ahead for further information and a list of dates.
What is a Non-traditional/Adult Student?
Typically a student is characterized as “non-traditional” if they exhibit one or more of the following characteristics:
-Over the age of 24
-Have delayed enrollment into post-secondary education
-Attend part-time
-Financially independent of parents
-Work full time while enrolled
-Have children
What is the cost of the program?
There will be no charge for the Orientation program as the cost is covered by new student fees. Students' lunches will be provided during the program at no cost. Family members/guests may purchase lunch from the Dining Hall for just under $7.00 per person; simply pay with cash or credit/debit card as you proceed through the lunch line.
Why is there a separate program for parents/families?
This is an exciting time not only for the student, but the family as well. Families who actively involve themselves in the orientation process gain a better understanding of college life and what is expected of them and their student. This is important because matching the expectations that families, students and colleges/universities have regarding one another is known to be a major factor in success and happiness during the college years. Held in conjunction with the student program, our parent/family program is designed to describe the many services, facilities and programs offered at FSU and PC&TC. It also provides contact time with important offices such as Financial Aid, Student Accounts and Residence Life. There is no charge for the program. Guest lunches are not provided, but can be purchased through Dining Services at the Falcon Center Cafeteria. We encourage guests to take advantage of this opportunity to check out our campus dining services.
As a parent, why am I not with my student during the Academic Advising/Class Scheduling session?
The initial advising process is done in group format involving several students. We treat this time as a training opportunity for students to learn the process and mechanics of selecting and building a class schedule. Before the program ends, parents will have an opportunity to see their student's schedule and ask questions if they wish.
When do I pay my tuition?
An email notification will be sent to your FSU or PC&TC email account with information about paying your tuition and fees. Watch for this important notification early-mid summer. If tuition and fees are not paid by the deadline, you will be dropped from your classes. Please note that billing communications are sent via email. You may designate a parent, guardian or other responsible party to receive these same email notifications during Orientation.
What if I need to change my Orientation Date?
We will be happy to reschedule you for another Orientation day as long as we have open spots. Our program is designed to accommodate many students and their guests per day. If you have already submitted an RSVP and wish to change your date, please simply visit the RSVP website you used originally and submit a new RSVP. Once your new RSVP has been received, we will discard your previous submission. You may also call us using the contact info below.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
-Picture ID for verification purposes
-ACT/SAT scores if taken recently or not sent to our Office of Admissions
-An umbrella in case of rain
Is there anything else I should know?
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and plan to spend the day -most students are with us on campus through mid-afternoon (2:30 - 3:00 pm).
I have additional questions. Who do I contact?
Feel free to contact our helpful staff.
Office of Orientation
218 Hardway Building
1201 Locust Avenue
Fairmont, WV 26554
Phone: 304-367-4694 OR 1-800-641-5678
Email: Orientation@fairmontstate.edu OR Orientation@pierpont.edu
