Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to campus?
Pacific University is located in Forest Grove, Oregon, 22 miles west of downtown Portland. From Portland, the preferred route to campus is via Highway 26 (Sunset Highway), turning south at North Plains (Exit 57 - follow signs indicating Forest Grove or Pacific University)
FROM THE NORTH
Traveling southbound on Interstate 5, take the 405 exit (west), follow signs and exit to Highway 26 west (ocean beaches/zoo).
FROM THE SOUTH
Traveling northbound on Interstate 5, take 217 exit north, follow signs and exit to Highway 26 west.
FROM THE EAST
Traveling westbound on Interstate 84, follow signs and take exit on the left towards Beaverton and Salem to Interstate 5 southbound. Merge onto I-405 Northbound towards City Center/Beaverton and 26 West.
THEN... FROM HIGHWAY 26
Take Exit 57-North Plains. At the top of the exit ramp, turn left and travel approximately 1 mile and turn right at Zion Church Road-this should be the third set of stop lights counting the two on the exit ramp and overpass. NW Zion Church Road becomes NW Cornelius Schefflin Road. In the first roundabout take the exit for Forest Grove. In the second roundabout follow signs for Verboort. Continue until you come to the stop sign at Highway 47 and turn left onto Highway 47. Turn right onto Sunset Avenue. Continue until you see the Pacific University campus-turn right onto University Avenue and then left onto College Way. Parking is available along College Way and in campus lots. The check-in station is located between McCormick and Walter Halls on College Way. Boxer Ambassadors will be available to answer questions and help with move-in-watch for them in black polo shirts.
When do I move in?
Move-in starts at 7am on Wednesday, August 22nd. Student Ambassadors, along with the President of the University and other faculty and staff members, will be on campus, ready and willing to help get your stuff into your new room!
Can I check in for Transfer Orientation on Wednesday when I move in?
Although you will check in to your room on Wednesday, you will need to check in on Thursday morning before Orientation, in the University Center.
Where should I park?
You may park in the parking lots near the Residence Halls for only 15 minutes for unloading. Because there will be so many people to help you unload, it will be plenty of time. After that, there is on-street parking on College Way and also near the tennis courts, past the intersection of University Ave. and Main St. There will be signs and plenty of Ambassadors around to direct you. During Transfer Orientation if you are not living on campus we will issue you a temporary parking pass for the day of Orientation.
What should I bring?
Pacific is going to be another home for you, so bring stuff you will want, but keep in mind your limited space. We also recommend you contact your roommate ahead of time so you don’t bring duplicate items (fridge, TV, etc.). If you have any questions or need suggestions, refer to Housing and Residence Life’s Website at http://www.pacificu.edu/studentlife/housing/faq/bringfaq.cfm.
What do I need to do if I bring my car?
If you bring a car on campus you need to purchase a parking permit from the Pacific Information Center (PIC) in the University Center (UC). It costs $40 for the year and the charge is added to your student account. Next, it is important to find the parking lots close to your residence hall. Keep in mind that not all lots allow over-night parking. Also, if you don’t drive your car often, make a plan to check on it every week. Campus Public Safety reminds you to always lock your car and observe general traffic rules and posted signs.
If I am not living on campus where can I park during the day?
There is on-street parking on College Way and a parking lot by the tennis courts past the intersection of University Ave. and Main St. There is also parking available between the Clark and McCormick residence halls on University Way. We will issue you a temporary parking permit for the day, but if you plan on parking on campus during classes you will need to purchase a parking permit in the Pacific Information Center.
Is there anything I will need to bring to Orientation?
It may be a good idea to bring a notebook to take notes throughout the day, you will receive a folder with several pieces of information. Breakfast and lunch will be provided.
When and where do I check in for Transfer Orientation?
Check in begins at 7:30 am on Thursday, August 23rd. A table will be set up in the University Center (UC) in front of the Pacific Information Center (PIC), where you will receive your folder and schedule for the day.
How long will the day last?
Plan for a full day of activities on Thursday from 7:30 am until around 5:00 pm.
Can my child come with me to Orientation?
We strongly discourage bringing children to Orientation. The day requires a great deal of focus. If you need help finding local child care please check out this website for a list of resources at: http://www.pacificu.edu/studentlife/childcare/careconnect.html . Please let us know if you will be unable to attend without your child.
Where is the Orientation office?
The Orientation office is located in Student Life, which is accessed through the South East exterior entrance to the University Center (UC). This is the door closest to Price Hall.
What is there for my parents to do?
Parents have their own Orientation on-campus. There are many activities designed just for them. Parent Orientation is held Wednesday, August 22nd through Thursday, August 23rd. The more detailed schedule can be found at http://www.pacificu.edu/orientation/parent/index.cfm