Office of Student Orientation and Transition

2116 Susquehanna Hall
Phone: 301-314-8217
askorientation@umd.edu | terpfamilyorientation@umd.edu | transitionprograms@umd.edu
http://orientation.umd.edu

Director: Gerry Strumpf, Ph.D.

The Office of Student Orientation and Transition provides unwavering support to students from their initial steps at UMD, guiding them seamlessly along their educational journey and preparing them for successful entry into their professional lives.

New Student Orientation

Held prior to the semester a student enrolls at the University of Maryland, the New Student Orientation program (NSO) aims to provide students with information about campus resources and services that will assist them in a successful academic and social transition to the university. During NSO, students meet with representatives from their academic college for advising and course scheduling. Undergraduate Orientation Advisors (OAs) introduce students to academic and student life at the University of Maryland, including student campus services and resources, and opportunities for involvement on campus. 

Terp Family Orientation

Parents, family members, loved ones, and supporters of new University of Maryland students are strongly encouraged to attend a one-day Terp Family Orientation program specifically designed to introduce them to the academic, social, and cultural opportunities of the university. The program aims to better prepare Terp family members and supporters for the issues that are likely to affect their students throughout their matriculation at the University of Maryland, and provide them with numerous resources and information to help their student succeed inside and outside the classroom.

Transition Programs & UNIV Seminars

The Office of Student Orientation and Transition coordinates first year student seminar courses through the academic college called UNIV100. These courses introduce students to the world of higher education and, more specifically, to the University of Maryland. Course topics include career/major exploration, successful studying/test-taking strategies, diversity, time management, and involvement within the University of Maryland. UNIV100 seminar courses are led by a faculty or staff member and often an undergraduate Teaching Assistant. The Office of Student Orientation and Transition also oversees the UNIV100 Teaching Assistant Program where students are trained to be peer leaders and mentors in UNIV100 classrooms. 

Transitioning into the university environment is complex, but so is transitioning out of that environment! UNIV362, a course for juniors and seniors called Designing Your Life After College, helps students plan their transition out of college and into their professional lives. Students gain a grasp on important financial, professional and social-emotional concepts such as budgeting, saving for retirement, negotiating salary, evaluating the total compensation of a job offer, social wellness, and building community after college. The course is offered in fall and spring semester as well as summer and winter sessions.