New Student Orientation

Registration is now open for New Student Orientation!

Session I- June 10-11

Session II- June 13-14 

Session III- June 16-17

Transfer Student Orientation- June 13

If you are unable to attend any of these sessions, please reach out to orientation@nichols.edu or call 508-213-2480 to sign up for the Virtual Orientation on Monday, June 22.

In June, there will be three Orientation sessions offered for incoming students of the Class of 2030 and one specific session for Transfer students.

Students are highly encouraged to register for an in person, overnight Orientation session. Orientation will be hosted during the following times:

Students who are coming to Nichols as a Transfer student may elect to attend day programming or stay overnight. Click the tab below to learn more about this program!

Virtual Orientation- We understand that circumstances happen where students can’t attend in person due to location or prior commitments. If students are unable to attend an in- person session, there will be a Virtual Orientation program offered. This session will be offered on June 22, 2026 from 12-1 PM EST. To sign up for the Virtual Orientation, please email your Admissions Counselor, email  orientation@nichols.edu or call 508-213-2480.

International Virtual Orientation- Our virtual international orientation is designed to help you feel prepared and confident before arriving on campus. We’ll walk through the most important steps such as immigration requirements, travel planning, health forms, and what to expect in your first few days. It’s also a chance to meet our team, ask questions, and start getting comfortable with the Nichols community before you arrive. All international students are welcomed to attend any in person Orientation session in June. To register for the International Virtual Orientation on Monday, June 22, 2026, from 1-2PM EST, please reach out to your admissions counselor or click the link here.

Orientation is an exciting and important experience designed to help you kick-start your journey at Nichols College. This event is a fantastic opportunity to meet your fellow classmates, connect with faculty and staff, and get familiar with the campus and all the resources available to support your success.

During Orientation, you’ll have the chance to explore campus, participate in interactive sessions, and learn more about academic expectations, student life, and extracurricular opportunities. It’s also a great time to ask questions and start building friendships that will last throughout your college years.

The two-day program will begin with check-in at 8:30AM (for Varsity Athletes) and 9 AM on day one (for non-athletes) and conclude at 1 PM on day two.

The full Orientation schedule will be released as we get closer to June, so be sure to stay tuned for updates! We can’t wait to welcome you to the Nichols community and help you make a smooth transition into college life.

Are you an incoming Transfer student? We have a tailored Orientation experience just for you! At this session, you will meet the Transfer Coordinator, learn about campus resources, and tour around our campus to find out all we have to offer. Lunch will be provided at no charge.

Transfer Orientation will be hosted on Saturday, June 13th. This is a full day program beginning with check-in at 8:30AM (for Varsity Athletes) and 9 AM (for non-athletes) and concluding at 7:30 PM. Transfer students can elect to stay overnight in Shamie Hall, where programming will conclude at 1:00pm on June 14th. The overnight component will allow for you meet and mingle with members of the Class of 2030, partake in team building exercises, and engage in social activities.

Transfer students can attend any other session; however, only the June 13th session will be tailored towards the Transfer student experience. The other sessions focus on the first-year student experience; however, you will find great benefit in attending any session.

Family and Guests are welcomed to attend day programming during the first day of every session or they can extend their visit and elect to stay overnight in our apartment style suite. Programming for both the day and overnight experience will be separate from your student, so please do not feel you are overstepping by attending!

The Day Program will begin with check-in at 8:30AM (for Varsity Athletes) and 9 AM (for non-athletes) through 5:30 PM and will feature breakout sessions, opportunities to learn about campus resources, a free lunch to mingle with faculty and staff, and an Open House to learn about different departments on-campus. We will conclude the day with a post-reception. We highly encourage families and guests to attend at least the day session to learn about their students’ college experience.

We have an extensive and fun schedule of events for families and guests that wish to stay for the Overnight Program. Some featured events and programs for families and guests that elect to stay overnight include:

• The Families and Guest Day experience mentioned above
• Dinner and Breakfast
• Private room and bathroom, and shared common space and kitchen in the Copper Beech Apartments
• Attend campus favorite events, such as Bingo and fire pits and s’mores
• Meet with campus partners to learn more about academics and the role of a “college parent or friend”
• Limited Edition Nichols Swag

Spots for the Overnight Program for Families & Guests are limited, so early registration is encouraged. The program requires a $125 fee per family, with up to two guests allowed per student. Payments will be collected via cash, Venmo, or check made payable to Nichols College at check- in on session day. If additional rooms are needed and you have more than two guests per student, please reach out to orientation@nichols.edu. We look forward to welcoming you.

1. What is Orientation, and why should I attend?

June Orientation is a program designed to help new students transition into college life. It provides important information about academics, campus resources, student life, and ways to get involved. It’s also a great opportunity to meet fellow students, faculty, and staff before the semester begins.

2. Do I need to register for Orientation?

Yes, students are required to register in advance. Registration for June Orientation will open in April 12, 2026.

3. Will I meet my academic advisor at Orientation?

Yes! During orientation, you’ll have the chance to meet with academic advisors to discuss classes and the first-year student experience.

4. Is Orientation mandatory?

It is highly encouraged to attend Orientation because it provides essential information that will help you succeed in your first year at Nichols College. If you have specific questions about the experience or would like to talk with a member of the Orientation team, please reach call 508-213-2480.

5. Can families and guests attend Orientation?

Yes! We provide day and overnight sessions for families and guests to help them understand the resources and support available to students. Students and Families and Guests schedules will not overlap throughout the day.

6. What if I can’t attend Summer Orientation?

If you are unable to attend, contact the Nichols College Orientation team as soon as possible. We can provide alternative sessions or a virtual option to ensure you receive the necessary information.

7. I registered for a session, but I need to change it, what do I do?

If you need to change your session, no need to re-register. Just email orientation@nichols.edu or call 508-213-2480 to change a session. This also applies to the case if you need to add or remove a family or guest that is attending.

8. Can I drive myself?

Yes, you can drive yourself to Orientation, however you cannot leave campus until day two at 1 PM. If you have an emergency, that will need to be communicated to a member of the Orientation team during the session. However, if you already know you have a conflict that requires you to leave before the conclusion of the program, please email orientation@nichols.edu

9. Can I bring a guest to stay overnight with me in Shamie Hall?

Guests that are not registered for the family and guest session are not able to visit or stay in Shamie Hall with you overnight.

10. I am Varsity Athlete or thinking about being a walk-on, are there any required meetings at Orientation?

Yes! On the first day of each session, there will be a required meeting for all students and their families. Check-in will be from 8:30-9AM at Shamie Hall. The Athletic Panel will begin at 9AM in Daniels Auditorium where you will meet various staff from the Athletics department.

You should bring:

• A valid ID
• Any required medications
• Linens will be not provided, so please bring a pillow, sleeping bag or twin XL sheets and blanket
• Comfortable clothing and shoes (Don’t forget a sweatshirt as we will be outdoors, weather permitting, in the evening hours.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Phone charger
• Bath Towel, toiletries, and shower sandals

On the first day of each session, there will be a required meeting for all students and their families to learn more about the life of a student athlete and steps to take in the summer to be ready to play your season! This meeting welcomes Varsity Athletes committed to a team or any students interested in being a walk-on to any of the Varsity programs.

Check-in will be from 8:30-9AM at Shamie Hall. The Athletic Panel will begin at 9AM in Daniels Auditorium where you will meet various staff from the Athletics department.

Orientation Student Schedule 2026 

8:30AM-9:00AM- Check-In for Athletes 

If you are a Varsity Athlete, Recruited or Walk-On, please arrive at this time to get your room assignment and Nichols swag. 

9:00AM-9:30AM- Check-In for Non-Athletes 

If you are not an athlete, please arrive at this time to get your room assignment and Nichols swag. 

8:30am – 9:45am- Bison Brews and Mingling

Enjoy light refreshments and meet members of the Nichols community. 

9:00am-9:30am- Learn the Life of an Athlete

Hear from Athletic Administration and Coaches about the Student Athlete Experience and learn about health and compliance requirements. 

9:45am – 10:15am- Welcome to Nichols: Your Journey Starts Now 

Kick things off with an energizing welcome from the Orientation Team and President. 

10:15am – 10:45am– Financial Hacks: The Investment In Your Degree

Unlock the keys to financial services and learn from Student Financial Services and Financial Aid.  

10:55am – 11:30am- Advising 101: Your Roadmap to Success

Meet your academic advisors and learn about Professional Development Seminar and Academic Support Services.  

11:35am – 12:10pm- Bison Bonding: Icebreakers and Connections

Kickstart your Nichols journey with fun name games, team activities, and new friendships! 

12:15pm – 12:50pm- Bison Bites: Lunch & Mingle

Enjoy a meal with your peers and meet some faculty and staff on the Hill.  

1:00pm-1:30pm- Crack the Code: Academics at Nichols

Get the inside scoop on what to expect in the classroom and how to succeed! 

1:30pm – 2:30pm- One Minute Ad Challenge

Participate in a creative and interactive experience to meet new friends and collaboratively work in a team. 

2:30pm – 2:55pm- Herd Hangout 

Enjoy a special treat and mingle with classmates! 

3:00pm-3:45pm– Resources and Involvement at Nichols

Connect with Health & Counseling, Tutoring, Study Abroad, Institute for Women’s Leadership and the Emerging Leaders Program. 

3:45pm-4:00pm- Words of Inspiration from the Dean of Students

Hear from Dean of Students, Alex Cross, about your Student Life experience at Nichols 

4:00pm-4:30pm- Open House & Showcase: The Nichols Experience Outside 

Explore a variety of offices on campus that support you, learn about resources and enjoy refreshments. 

4:40pm – 5:10pm- You Belong Here!  

Get creative with Student Belonging, enjoy an activity that brings the community together. 

5:45pm-6:25pm- Dinner and Learn

Meet the Dining staff, learn about dining at Nichols, and enjoy a meal with new friends.

6:30pm-7:00 pm- Involvement Fair  

Come learn about different opportunities on how to get involved in clubs, campus rec, and leadership positions. 

7:00pm-8:00pm- Sneetches

Enjoy a fun, interactive activity with a powerful message: get ready to reflect and connect! 

8:00pm-9:45pm – Nichols After Dark

Get excited for a fun and social event to meet new friends!  

10:00pm- Late Night Snacks

Grab a snack, unwind, and reflect on an incredible first day! 

Day Two  

7:30am- Wakeup Call

7:45am-8:45am- Bison Breakfast

12:20pm-12:40pm- Bison Connections and OL Farewell Outside
Share your favorite memories of Orientation and take a piece of the web to always remember it. 

12:45pm-1:00pm- Final Send-Off  

Watch a slide show of photo memories, and say farewell to friends before you return in August. 

1:00pm- Departure

8:30AM-9:00AM- Check-In for Athletes 

If you are a Varsity Athlete, Recruited or Walk-On, please arrive at this time to get your room assignment and Nichols swag. 

9:00AM-9:30AM- Check-In for Non-Athletes 

If you are not an athlete, please arrive at this time to get your room assignment and Nichols swag. 

8:30am – 9:45am- Bison Brews and Mingling

Enjoy light refreshments and meet members of the Nichols community. 

9:00am-9:30am- Learn the Life of an Athlete

Hear from Athletic Administration and Coaches about the Student Athlete Experience and learn about health and compliance requirements. 

9:45am – 10:15am- Welcome to Nichols: Your Journey Starts Now 

Kick things off with an energizing welcome from the Orientation Team and President. 

10:15am – 10:45am– Financial Hacks: The Investment In Your Degree

Unlock the keys to financial services and learn from Student Financial Services and Financial Aid.  

10:55am – 11:30am Bison Bonding: Icebreakers and Connections Guest House Lawn  

Kickstart your Nichols journey and meet fellow Transfer students! 

11:35am-12:10pm Advising 101: Your Roadmap to Success Fels 210 

Meet your academic advisors and learn about Professional Development Seminar and Academic Support Services. 

12:15pm – 12:50pm- Bison Bites: Lunch & Mingle

Enjoy a meal with your peers and meet some faculty and staff on the Hill.  

1:00pm-1:30pm- Crack the Code: Academics at Nichols

Get the inside scoop on what to expect in the classroom and how to succeed! 

1:30pm – 2:15pm  One Minute Ad Challenge Davis Hall 

A creative and interactive experience to meet new friends and collaboratively work in a team. 

2:20pm-2:55pm Life on The Hill: Safety Fels 215 

Get your student ID picture and learn about parking and safety on campus. 

3:00pm-3:45pm– Resources and Involvement at Nichols

Connect with Health & Counseling, Tutoring, Study Abroad, Institute for Women’s Leadership and the Emerging Leaders Program. 

3:45pm-4:00pm- Words of Inspiration from the Dean of Students

Hear from Dean of Students, Alex Cross, about your Student Life experience at Nichols 

4:00pm-4:30pm- Open House & Showcase: The Nichols Experience Outside 

Explore a variety of offices on campus that support you, learn about resources and enjoy refreshments. 

4:40pm – 5:10pm- You Belong Here!  

Get creative with Student Belonging, enjoy an activity that brings the community together. 

5:15pm – 5:40pm Residence and Commuter Life Fels 323 

Learn about the life of a resident or commuter at Nichols! 

5:45pm-6:25pm- Dinner and Learn

Meet the Dining staff, learn about dining at Nichols, and enjoy a meal with new friends.

6:30pm-7:00 pm- Involvement Fair  

Come learn about different opportunities on how to get involved in clubs, campus rec, and leadership positions. 

 8:30AM-9:00AM- Check-In for Athletes

If you are a Varsity Athlete, Recruited or Walk-On, please arrive at this time to get checked in. 

9:00am-9:30am- Check-In for Non-Athletes

If you are not an athlete, please arrive at this time to get checked in. 

9:00am – 9:45am-Bison Brews and Mingling

Enjoy light refreshments and meet members of the Nichols community. 

9:00am-9:30am- Learn the Life of an Athlete

Hear from Athletic Administration and Coaches about the Student Athlete Experience and learn about health and compliance requirements. 

9:45am – 10:15am- Welcome to Nichols: Your Adventure Starts Now 

Kick things off with an energizing welcome from the Orientation Team and President of Nichols College. 

10:15am – 10:45am–Financial Hacks: The Investment In Your Degree

Unlock the keys to financial services and learn from Student Financial Services and Financial Aid. 

10:50am-11:20am- Life of a Nichols Student Panel

Learn from student leaders about their involvement on campus from leadership roles to being a student athlete. 

11:25am – 12:10pm-Lunch and Learn  

Tour the dining hall, meet the talented chefs, and explore the different stations and dietary options available to your student. 

12:15pm – 12:45pm- Academics and Experiential Learning Panel

Gain insights from Academic Leaders and hear about internships with Career and Professional Development Center.  

12:45pm-1:30pm- It Takes a Village: Supporting Your Student

Learn how Nichols supports student success through the Academic Advisors and the Academic Center for Excellence and Support. 

1:30pm-3:45pm- Student Financial Services: 1:1 Sessions

Meet with SFS 1:1 to discuss financial packages, loans, and more. 

1:30pm-1:45pm- A la Cart: Explore & Engage 

Take a break, shop in the bookstore, and enjoy the iced coffee bar! During the break, learn about the Institute for Women’s Leadership and the Emerging Leaders Program. 

1:45pm-2:45pm- Your Student’s Journey: Beyond the Classroom

Learn about opportunities within Student Life that support involvement, wellness, a sense of belonging, and residence life. 

2:45pm-3:45pm–Campus Connections and Initiatives

Meet the teams and services that will help your student thrive – from IT, Public Safety, E&R Laundry, and the Bison Book Bundle.  

4:00pm-4:30pm-Open House & Showcase: The Nichols Experience  

Explore office tables, experiential learning, meet athletic coaches and more! 

4:30pm-5:30pm- Family & Guest Reception

Mingle with campus partners and close out the day with refreshments. 

Overnight Sessions 

6:00pm-7:00pm-Dinner: Dine with New Friends

7:00pm-7:45pm-Family Bingo and Darts

8:00pm-9:30pm- Nichols After Dark: Fire Pits and S’mores

Day Two 

7:30am-9:30am-Breakfast and Check Out

Enjoy a warm breakfast in the Dining Hall, pack up your room, and return your room key. 

9:45am-10:15am– Partners in the Journey: Chat with the Dean

Dean of Students, Alex Cross, will share how we partner with families to support student success. 

10:15am-11:00am-One Minute Ad Challenge

A creative hands-on lesson that will challenge your problem-solving skills! 

11:00am – 11:30am-Bison Thoughts: Insights & Advice

Hear from involved student leaders and their experience on the Hill. 

11:30am-12:15pm- Campus Tour: What You May Haven’t Seen Yet

Take a guided tour to see some new areas of campus and revisit spaces you may want to get a second look at.  

12:20pm-12:40pm- Bison Connections 

Say farewell to your new friends and participate in a fun tradition of Bison Web. 

12:45pm-1:00pm- Final Send-Off   

Connect with students and other families to wrap up the Orientation experience. 

1:00pm Departure

Friday, August 21- First- Year Move-In- Click here to learn more!

Friday, August 21- Saturday, August 22- Fall Orientation– This two-day experience features fun team building exercises, an opportunity to learn about campus resources, meet your faculty, and mingle with members of your class!

Sunday, August 23- Transfer Student Move-In and Orientation Session- This day session is tailored towards Transfer students and will highlight campus resources, team building, and more. Students are able to move-in and attend the First Year Orientation experience starting on August 22, however the only specific transfer experience will be offered on August 24.

Sunday, August 23- Nichols Campus Carnival from 4-8 PM- Kick off the Fall semester with a carnival featuring rides, fair food, giveaways, and more! This event is open to all Nichols students.

Monday, August 24- First Day of the Semester 

Check back in Summer 2026 for more details. 

Check back in Summer 2026 for more details. 

Orientation Registration will open in November 2026.

Check back in November 2026 for details!

Check back in November 2026 for details!