SOAR Schedule of Events - Student Development and Orientation - Western Illinois University

Student Development and Orientation

Family Detailed Schedule

Day 1

11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Check-in, Corbin/Olson Halls, front lobby
There will be two lines for family members. Please go to the appropriate one:
1. line for family members staying ON CAMPUS in the residence hall on the family floor---$35 per person collected at this time
2. line for family members staying OFF CAMPUS (obtain accommodations on own)---$25 per person collected at this time
Please note that no payment is collected before this check-in. Wear your name tag at all times to identify you with the program and do not lose your meal tickets.
12:45-1p.m.
Macomb Welcome, Grand Ballroom, University Union, first level
The Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Development Corporation (MACCDDC) would like to extend a warm welcome to parents and family members visiting Western's home city!
1-1:30 p.m.
Family Expectations, Grand Ballroom, University Union, first level
This session will share how WIU works collaboratively with parents through the college transition helping parents understand how to navigate the transition from high school adolescents to independent college adults.
1:30-1:45 p.m.
Building Connections...One Student at a Time, Grand Ballroom, University Union, first level
Hear more about Western’s mentoring program designed to assist students with their needs as they transition to campus life.
1:45-2 p.m.
Western Welcome, Grand Ballroom, University Union, first level
Western Illinois University will deliver greetings, convey opening remarks, and introduce the Orientation Team.
2-2:30 p.m.
First Year Leatherneck Learning, Grand Ballroom, University Union, first level
Learn about the components of the First Year Experience (FYE) program and how it will enhance your student's college experience.
2:45-3:15 p.m.
Letting Go, Grand Ballroom, University Union, first level
Starting college can bring a great deal of change for students and families including new responsibilities, schedules, and relationships. This session will offer compassionate and practical information from current students on how families can let go, deal with challenging adjustments, and be helpful during transition years.

Career Preparedness, Capitol Room, University Union, first level
Career preparedness does not start senior year! This session will focus on how students, parents/family members, and the Career Services office can work together for career planning and preparation starting freshman year.
3:15-3:30 p.m.
Break
3:30-4 p.m.
Supporting Student Success, Grand Ballroom, University Union, first level
This session elicits emotions parents experience when sending their students away for college. Listen to personal experiences that have helped parents prepare their student and self for this academic and social journey.
4-4:15 p.m.
Bookstore 101, Grand Ballroom, University Union, first level
A brief introduction to the programs, products, and textbook options available in the bookstore will be shared.
4:15-5:20 p.m.
Dollars and sense, Grand Ballroom, University Union, first level
The anticipated cost, billing process, and payment plans will be shared by Billing and Receivables. Financial Aid will make sense of the aid process from application to award notification and disbursement, how to determine if your student needs help paying the bill, where to look for it, and how to continue aid eligibility in the future.
5:30-6:30 p.m.
Dinner, Dining Center, Corbin/Olson Halls
Enjoy college dining with your student and/or other family members. Wear your lanyard (name tag) with your meal tickets. If you want any drinks or snacks for the duration of the evening, visit the C-store before returning to the Union.
6:45-7:15 p.m.
Home Away From Home, Grand Ballroom, University Union, first level
Get a glimpse into experiencing your student's life in his/her new home on campus at WIU. University Housing and Dining Services will highlight different residence hall communities and dining options.
7:15-7:30 p.m.
#knowITownIT, Grand Ballroom, University Union, first level
University Technology (uTech) will tell your student how to get connected in his/her room and set up mobile devices. Best security practices and social responsibility related to technology will be discussed. Your student will also discover how to access technology resources.
7:30-8 p.m.
College Life Skits, Grand Ballroom, University Union, first level
Relax and enjoy realistic and humorous looks into some of the issues that college students face during their college years.
8-9 p.m.
WIU Parents Social, Multicultural Center
Join us for a comfortable, low-key social to unwind for the day. This is a great opportunity to ask questions, meet other families, and network with University staff. Sponsored by the WIU Parents and Family Association, Student Assistance and Parent Service Center, Alumni Association, Casa Latina, and the Provost's Office.
9 p.m.
Free Time
11:30 p.m.
Residence Hall Doors Lock, Corbin/Olson Halls

Day 2

6:30-8 a.m.
Residence Hall Check-out, Corbin/Olson Halls Lobby
Return your room keys to the front desk.

Breakfast, Dining Center, Corbin/Olson Halls
Enjoy breakfast with your student and Orientation Team members.
7:15-8 a.m.
Honors College Breakfast, Dining Center,West Room, Corbin/Olson Halls
Prospective Honors students and their families are invited to eat breakfast with representatives from the Centennial Honors College. Students will receive general information about the Honors College and specific information about Honors classes available in the fall semester.
8:15-9:15 a.m.
Student Services Fair, Prairie Lounge, University Union, first level
The fair is an opportunity to have individual questions answered by various offices on topics such as housing, financial aid, billing, parking, and student health insurance, to name a few. See the center page for the list of fair participants.

Disability Resource Center, Kaskaskia Room, University Union, first level
The Disability Resource Center (DRC) will meet with students with disabilities and their families in the Kaskaskia Room to address individual questions about services.
8:30-9 a.m.
Commuter Student Session, Springfield Room, University Union, first level
Students who will be commuting to campus will have the opportunity to hear from and speak to Orientation Team members about unique experiences.
9:15-9:45 a.m.
First Year Leatherneck Living, Grand Ballroom, University Union, first level
Getting involved in activities and events outside the classroom can enrich your student's academic experience. Come see how your student can get involved in student clubs and organizations and/or show support for Leatherneck Athletics. Learn about Purple Post, the internal social networking system for all WIU students, and how the WIU photo ID allows your student access to various athletic events.
9:45-10:45 a.m.
Major/Program Meetings, Various locations
Academic advisors will distribute relevant materials, talk about major and program requirements, and answer questions about the advising process and selection of fall semester classes.
10:45-11 a.m.
Families return to University Union
11-11:45 a.m.
Health and Safety, Grand Ballroom, University Union, first level
Find out about the resources available for students to stay healthy and safe at Western. Representatives from the University Counseling Center, Office of Public Safety, and Beu Health Center will present information on safety and wellness.
11:45 a.m.
Inside Edition, Grand Ballroom, University Union, first level
This is an opportunity to get inside the life of a Western student. Get personal insight from the Orientation Team and learn what it’s like to be a student on our campus. Bring your questions.
Reminders
Family Evaluation, before you depart, return your completed family evaluation to the designated box

Optional Campus Walking Tours available until 1 p.m., leave from Prairie Lounge, University Union, first level