Dickinson's Orientation program for new students is designed to facilitate your integration into the unfamiliar academic and residential setting that is college life. Through Orientation we invite you to learn about the experiences, opportunities and community that Dickinson has to offer. Orientation is required for all new students.


Important Dates (2023)

  • Aug. 20: Pre-Orientation (Pre-O) Participant Belonging Drop-Off & Pre-Orientation programs begin
  • Aug. 23: New Student Move-In Day & Orientation Begins, required of all new students
  • Aug. 27: Convocation (#dson2027 sign-in ceremony)
  • Aug. 28: First Day of Classes

Pre-Orientation: Explore More Programs

Pre-Orientation: Explore More Programs

Pre-Orientation: Explore More programs are dynamic, interactive experiences for small groups of incoming first-year and transfer students hosted by campus departments, offices, and student groups. Check out the 2023 programs, and register now!

Learn More & Register
Parent/Guardian Virtual Summer Series

Parent/Guardian Virtual Summer Series

Join us on Zoom Wednesdays at noon for these sessions, which will be hosted by a variety of members of the Dickinson community, covering topics like wellness, the residential experience, finances, advising and much more.

Learn More


Check out coverage of last year's move-in day and Orientation:

Move-in Day 2022

Move-in Day 2022

Campus buzzes with excitement as members of the class of 2026 arrive on campus.

Convocation Officially Opens The 2022-23 Academic Year

Convocation Officially Opens The 2022-23 Academic Year

The class of 2026 officially signed in to Dickinson during Convocation on Sunday, Aug. 28.



Contact Us

If you have any questions, please call the New Student Programs office at 717-245-1671 or email orientation@dickinson.edu.