For families, it is a chance to meet the University staff, get to know the many campus resources available, and to learn more about what the upcoming year has in store for their student.
This is important as students meet with faculty to determine their class schedules, take placement tests, learn about academic and community expectations, and become familiar with the campus.
The information that students are presented with during the program is essential to starting the year off right.
Family Program
We also encourage family members to attend the family program. This program is designed specifically with the needs of families in mind. Included in the program are sessions on academic expectations, campus life and co-curricular involvement, and strategies for supporting students during their first year at RWU.
Families will have the opportunity to meet the members of the community important to their student's success and spend time getting to know all the University has to offer both students and their families.
The family program is a one day program that runs concurrent to the student program. Families are encouraged to explore the local community while their student is in day two of the student program. Schedules for both programs will be provided upon arrival.
The student program will conclude by 5:00pm on day 2 and we ask that you do not make travel plans to leave campus prior to 5:00pm. Families may attend as much of the program as they are able.
Meals and materials are provided as part of the program. Please note that there is no sibling program and families are encouraged to make other arrangements for siblings.
Students and family members attending the family session should plan to arrive and check in between the hours of 8:00am and 9:30am on the first day. Parking will be available in the North Campus Parking Lot and check in will be held in front of the Campus Recreation Center.
In case of inclement weather, check-in will be held in the Campus Recreation Center. There will be signs and staff to direct you. All students (including commuter students) stay overnight on campus.
Students are not allowed to leave the program for other commitments. Family members must make their own arrangements to stay in a local hotel or bed and breakfast.
Local Accommodations
The Baypoint Inn and Conference Center, located just a mile from campus, is operated by the University and offers special discounts to families who mention they are attending Orientation. This is a convenient place to stay as it is located close to campus. You can make reservations by contact them at (401) 254-7300.
Students traveling alone from long distances who need to arrive a day early, must contact the Orientation Office at least one week in advance to make arrangements. Please note, we can only accommodate those students who are traveling alone.
Again, congratulations on your acceptance and we look forward to getting to know you and your family during New Student and Family Orientation.
Please go the the link below for a listing of local area hotels:
Contruction Updates
If you are interested in more information about the contruction plans for this summer, we invite you to learn more about the projects by going to the link below: