Are parents required to attend Preview Days?

No, but you are encouraged and welcome to attend! Approximately 85% of the first-year students who attend bring at least one guest. If you cannot or do not want to attend, your student certainly won't be the only one without a parent/guardian with them.

Why should I attend?

You will have an opportunity to meet with and hear from representatives from many different University campus resources and departments, as well as valuable University personnel. Attending orientation allows you to learn about some of the expectations that will be placed on your first-year student and how to relate to your new student. You will also be able to ask questions, receive answers, and share information with other parents/guardians. BU Preview Days are as much for the families, as they are for the student. We understand the transition from high-school to college can be challenging for family members as well. As such, we have designed the orientation program to meet your unique needs as well.

What if I can't attend?

When your student returns from BU Preview Day, ask questions and ask to see the materialsthey received. Review the Helpful Phone Numbers list and call the appropriate offices to get any information you need. We provide links to various campus resources and important information about your student’s transition to BU.

Is there a fee for Orientation?

Guests attend orientation for free, but students pay a $95.00* fee, which will be included on their fall tuition bill. Guests are also required to pay for their own meals at our Scranton Commons dining hall. The orientation fee covers your students’ meals, materials, orientation staffing, entertainment and special activities during both summer and fall orientation, among other administrative costs. The cost for guest meals during the summer orientation experience is $7.80. This cost includes an all-you can eat buffet of entrees, soup, salad, dessert and beverages. (Please note, it is highly recommended that you pre-pay for all guest meals in order to expedite lines at the dining hall).

Will I be with my student throughout orientation?

Yes and no. There are some brief parts of the BU Preview Day schedule that are designed to meet your unique needs, while other parts are designed just for your student. At check-in, you and your student will be provided with appropriate schedules. Don’t fret (or for some of you, don’t celebrate too long!) You will be reunited with your student in no time!

Can I bring other children/dependents, relatives etc?

BU loves families! However, small children can easily become bored (as you know!), so they sometimes have a difficult time during BU Preview Days. All children are welcome, as are other family members. Bringing additional guests is entirely up to you! If time allows, there is a Children’s Museum in Bloomsburg that may be of interest to you. There are also several restaurants in town that may be of interest. Many restaurants also special discounts when you tell them you are in town for BU orientation. You may browse a list of participating retailers here!

Can I go to the Academic Advisement session with my son or daughter?

Academic Advisement is a time when your student will be interacting with a University faculty member who represents their academic department to discuss their class schedules, what is going to be expected of them while attending Bloomsburg University, and the requirements for their particular major. During this session, parents will meet with representatives from other relevant and important campus departments. We encourage all parents to attend the important parents-only sessions to get their questions addressed by university staff.

How long is a BU Preview Day?

Registration will begin at 8:00am along with a complimentary continental breakfast. Tentatively, the day will conclude by 4:30pm.

Can I turn in my students’ Health Form during Preview Days?

Yes! At the New at BU Campus Information Fair, the BU Health Center will have a table set up where you can turn in completed health forms. Staff from the Health Center will also be available to answer any questions you might have. If you lose your form, you can print another here! An incomplete Health Form results in a hold being placed on the students’ academic record. Holds prevent registration, can interrupt financial aid and prevent students from having access to certain important University resources.

What do I do now?

Get excited! Whether this is your first or fifth to leave the nest, this is an exciting time for both you and your new student! As you prepare for the orientation experience, please work through the Pre-Orientation Checklist found on the main orientation page, along with your son/daughter. Ensure that each item is checked off and understood. Now is also a good time to encourage your student to start earning and saving money (if they have not already) so they can enjoy the occasional slice of pizza while in college! Ask as many questions as you have, and encourage your new student to do the same! Our office is in place specifically to orient you! But we don’t know your needs unless you ask!

*Fee subject to change.