Helping Your Student Thrive: What Families Should Know About Orientation
Orientation Isn’t Just for Students—It’s a Launchpad for the Whole Family
Sending your student to college is a major milestone and while it’s exciting, it can also come with a lot of questions and emotions. At Le Moyne, we understand that families play a vital role in the transition to college, and we’re here to support you just as much as we will support your student.
That’s why our Orientation program is designed not only to welcome students, but also to provide clarity, comfort, and connection for families.
What Happens at Orientation?
Orientation is your student’s first step into life at Le Moyne. They'll move in (with your help), meet new friends and professors, explore campus, and dive into events that help them feel at home. It’s all about building confidence, finding support, and getting excited for what’s ahead!
What Should Parents & Families Know?
We welcome parents and families to participate in Move-In Day activities and our initial orientation programming. You’ll have a chance to explore campus, meet staff, and attend sessions designed to answer your questions about academics, safety, and student support services.
Please note: The student-only portion of Orientation begins mid-afternoon on Move-In Day (around 3 p.m.). At that point, we transition to a student-focused program so your student can begin building independence and connections.
Orientation is when students start developing their own networks: peer friendships, academic relationships, and self-reliance. Your encouragement and emotional support in these early days are powerful.
Pro Tip from a Parent: “Send a thoughtful note or message for them to read on their first night in the residence hall. It goes a long way.”
Le Moyne offers a comprehensive network of support:
- First Year Class Dean
- Academic advising and tutoring
- Student Success Center
- Counseling and wellness services
- Residential life staff
- Campus security and health services
We want you to feel confident that your student is in a caring and supportive environment.
College is a learning curve socially, academically, and personally. Encourage your student to show up, ask questions, and be open to new experiences rather than aiming to have everything figured out right away.
Pro Tip from a Student: “Le Moyne is a safe place. If you fall down at this wonderful institution, there will be several hands extended to help you to stand up.”
- Help them prepare, not plan for them: review schedules together, but let them take the lead
- Talk about what independence looks like: decision-making, time management, self-advocacy
- Remind them it’s okay to feel nervous or unsure: it’s part of growing
- Let them navigate the weekend independently after Move-In—this sets the stage for long-term success
Orientation helped us feel like we weren’t just dropping our child off, we were becoming part of a community too. Seeing the support systems in place gave us peace of mind.”
Have questions? Reach out anytime, we're here for you!
