Orientation for New Bobcats
Orientation is the bridge between your decision to attend Lees-McRae and being a Bobcat! You'll get to know your peers, navigate the campus, and learn about resources available to students. Our exceptional orientation leaders will show you the ropes!
Important 2021 Dates
- Session One
Monday, June 21–Tuesday, June 22
- Session Two
Friday, June 25–Saturday, June 26
- Move-in Day
Friday, Aug. 13
- Welcome Week
Saturday, Aug. 14–Friday, Aug. 20
Orientation Schedule
Get ready for a fun-filled and busy two days! From information sessions to small groups and games, your time on campus will be a great introduction to life as a Bobcat.
Parents and family members, you'll have the chance to learn more about your student's experience at Lees-McRae. You'll also have plenty of free time to explore our beautiful town!
For more information about orientation registration, visit the New Student Portal. The orientation schedule will be available in the New Student Portal in late spring.
The goal of the New Student Orientation is to help incoming students prepare academically, socially, and mentally for college life at Lees-McRae.
What to Pack
Students will stay in the residence halls overnight. Be sure to bring the following with you to check-in:
- Bedding (extra long twin sheets, light blanket, pillow, pillowcase)
- Change of clothes and comfortable walking shoes
- Light jacket or sweatshirt
- Shower items (towel, flip flops, toiletries)
- Small fan (optional)
Class Registration
Students who would like to receive their upcoming semester schedule at orientation must complete the required class registration items listed in the New Student Portal by June 1.
All incoming freshmen take First Year Seminar (FYS) during their first semester. If you know your intended major, we will include the relevant introductory courses for your major in your upcoming semester schedule. In addition, you may take one or more courses towards meeting the college's general education requirements. Dependent on your placement assessment scores, you may also take courses for elective credit towards graduation which prepares you for courses you will take in the future that requires math, reading, and writing skills at the college level.
Advising
You will have an opportunity to meet with your advisor when you arrive on campus for your first semester. During orientation, you will participate in group advising sessions to discuss course offerings for your upcoming semester.
What to Expect: Parents
We recognize that transitioning your student(s) to college can be a stressful and emotional time for families. During New Student Orientation, parents and families will have the opportunity to interact with other parents of incoming students, better understand what your student will be experiencing as a student, and learn how you can support your student's academic and social growth.
Orientation Schedule
Topics covered will include preparing for college life, student life and development, academic and career resources, student health and wellness, tuition payments and financial aid, and more. You will have time to explore the greater Banner Elk and High Country areas. All parent and family sessions are optional.
Accommodations
Your students will be spending the first night of orientation in a residence hall on campus. Families are welcome to stay at one of our local hotels, inns, or bed and breakfasts in the area. View lodging options
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Is orientation mandatory for new students?
Yes! All new Bobcats are expected to attend either session one or session two of orientation. If you have a conflict, please contact Libby Gragg at gragge@lmc.edu or the Student Affairs Office at studentaffairs@lmc.edu. -
Is orientation mandatory for parents?
Parents and family members are not required to attend an orientation session. However, orientation sessions will be available to welcome you to the Bobcat family and answer any questions you might have!
-
Is there anything I should be doing to get ready for orientation?
Before orientation, make sure you’ve registered and uploaded the necessary paperwork in the New Student Portal on Brightspace! Need help getting there? Scroll to the top of this page, select the wrench icon, then Brightspace. Use the same login information as your Lees-McRae email!
In the weeks leading up to orientation, keep an eye on your mailbox and Lees-McRae email for more updates and introductions!
-
Do I have to stay overnight during orientation?
All new students are required to stay in one of our on-campus residence halls during the overnight orientation session. We believe that the overnight experience helps new students to envision their on-campus experience and is an exciting way to meet the rest of the incoming class! If you have concerns about accommodations within the residence halls, please reach out.
-
When will the session end?
We have students coming from all over, so we want you to be able to plan for travel accordingly. Students will finish their last session at 12 p.m. and then check out of the residence halls. Parents and families will finish the last session at 12 p.m.
-
What do I do after orientation?
After orientation, it’s time to start the countdown to Move-in Day on August 13! Move-in will happen between 10 a.m.–2 p.m. and then we’ll kick-off Welcome Weekend. There will be tons of events and opportunities on campus that weekend and through the first week of classes!