Registration Underway for University's Overnight Freshmen Orientation

New freshmen students who want a preview of campus life at Texas A&M International University can spend the night at the University for free during a two-day overnight Freshmen Orientation program July 29-30.

The overnight Freshmen Orientation will be held at University Village, the apartment-style student housing located on the A&M International campus. The two-day event is a first for the University, said organizer Gabriela Mendoza, associate director of Student Development at A&M International.

"This is something new. We have never had an overnight Orientation program but we want students to get a real feel for the University experience and what better way to do that than to let students live on campus for two days," explained Mendoza.

First-time freshmen who register for the overnight Freshmen Orientation will check into University Village at 9 a.m. Wednesday, July 29 and check out at 5 p.m. Thursday, July 30. Mendoza, 10 trained Orientation leaders, and other University staff members will supervise participants and conduct Orientation activities.

Among the scheduled activities are advisement and registration for Fall semester courses, an opportunity to buy textbooks at the University Bookstore, an informal lunch with faculty and staff of A&M International, and a chance to explore the University campus.

The overnight Orientation will also feature several social activities, including a volleyball tournament, a movie night, pool party, and a mass game of Milton Bradley's Twister which will feature participation from about 100 limber University students, faculty, staff, and administrators.

Mendoza encourages first-time freshmen to register for the event as soon as possible since space is limited. A $20 refundable deposit is required to register.

"Indications are this first ever overnight Orientation will be a popular event. It is fun and informative. The event provides new students with great opportunities for meeting new friends and establishing a network of support plus participants will learn about financial aid availability, student clubs and organizations, and free services for students such as tutoring, career planning, and health services," explained Mendoza.

It is suggested that freshmen who attend the July 29 - 30 Orientation pack the following items for their overnight stay: casual clothing, comfortable walking shoes, swim wear, towels, alarm clock, pillow, sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, toiletries such as shampoo, soap, toothpaste, and toothbrush, pen or pencil, and paper. Students who plan to register for all courses during Orientation should also bring their TASP scores.

Students who do not participate in the overnight Orientation may opt to attend a one-day Freshmen Orientation to be held on Saturday, August 8 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. at the University in the Great Room of the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library (room 319). All new freshmen are required to attend Freshmen Orientation in order to have their Fall registration considered complete.

Two additional Orientation programs, one for new transfer and graduate students, and one for family and guests of new students, will be held Monday, August 24, from 5:30 - 8 p.m. in the University's Great Room.

For more information on Orientation programs at A&M International, please call the University's Office of Student Development, 326-2280, or visit offices in Kinesiology/Convocation Building, room 107. University office hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday - Friday. Orientation information may also be secured by email at orientation@tamiu.edu.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu