Below are commonly asked questions about New Student Orientation. For any additional questions, contact our office at orientation@goshen.edu.
Is New Student Orientation (NSO) mandatory?
Yes. All incoming first-year students must complete orientation on one of three NSO dates (May 17, June 14, or virtual). During NSO, students will complete pre-NSO tasks for course registration, complete math and writing assessments (required), take a language placement test (optional), and get their GC student ID card. Students will also meet other new students, some of our CORE 100 faculty, and their Connections Advisor. NSO is an essential step between depositing and attending fall orientation in August.
Can family members join the student at NSO?
Absolutely. Family members are a vital part of the transition to college, and we encourage family members to attend with students. Anyone you consider a support person is welcome to participate in NSO with you. This could be a parent, guardian, sibling, family member, or friend. There will be several sessions specifically for those attending with students. You’ll share who will join you by adding “Family Members” to your registration.
How much does NSO cost?
There is no fee for NSO. Lunch will be provided for all attendees.
Do family members stay with their students for the entirety of the program?
While students and family members will have some information sessions together, they will also be separate at points. Most notably, they will be separate while the students complete assessments and meet with the CORE 100 faculty and Connections Advisors.
How long is NSO?
First-year students attend a one-day program and should plan to be on campus from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET. View the full schedule here.
What do I need to do to prepare for NSO?
Students should download Yapp, the app we use for orientation. This includes more information about ALEKS, the math placement test, and the writing assessment.
Students must also take the ALEKS Mathematics Placement Test before attending NSO. This is an online math assessment you’ll do on your own. Information regarding the test is available in the app under Pre-NSO tasks. Students will also receive an email before NSO with the link and more information.
What do I need to bring with me?
- GC ID number (the 6-digit number assigned to you)
- GC username
- A sweater or light jacket (you will be in air-conditioned buildings)
- Something to write with to jot down information about presentations and information regarding resources
Where do I go when I get to campus? Where do I park?
You’ll check in at the Church-Chapel (CC) — look for #34 on the campus map. Parking is available on the south side of the building.
What if I can’t make it to NSO?
We provide several dates to accommodate the busy schedules of our new students. If you cannot attend one of our in-person summer NSO sessions due to an insurmountable hardship, please register for vNSO, our virtual option. Vacations, summer jobs, and other obligations are important. Still, New Student Orientation helps students prepare for a successful college career and is, in the long run, a great investment of time for both new students and their families.
Will I have my student ID created at NSO?
Yes. You will receive your student ID before leaving campus. You can submit your photo in advance to reduce the wait time on NSO days. Information will be emailed to your Goshen College email account after registering for NSO. Students participating in the virtual option will send their photo and pick up their ID card in August.
What if a student or family member needs special accommodations?
There is space for students to note their situation during registration. Students can report on behalf of family members when they add their names. We will contact them for details, or they may contact us. We make every effort to make sure their needs are met.
Spanish interpretation will be part of every session.
What if my question was not answered in the FAQ?
Please email orientation@goshen.edu.