Fall Orientation 2023

View the full Fall Orientation 2023 program now!

Printed versions of this program will be given out at check in. 

 

Note: Program outlined below does not include early arrivals happening between August 1 – 20th. Sessions and locations subject to change.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 24

9:00 - 12:00 P.M. | NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION AND RESIDENCE HALLS CHECK-IN
Marsh Hall Entrance, 2043 College Way, Forest Grove, OR
Check in with the New Student Orientation at the entrance of Pacific University, in front of Marsh Hall to pick up your welcome packet, key, and ID. After checking in, you will get detailed instructions on moving into your residence hall. Orientation Leaders and staff will be around to help answer questions. Special "concierge" move-in service is provided by our Pacific Football Team from 9:00 - 12:00 p.m.

Anyone checking in after 12:00 pm should come to the designated Orientation Information Desk located in the University Center. 

9:00 - 12 P.M. | YOUR VOTE, YOUR FUTURE: GET REGISTERED TO VOTE AT PACIFIC
University Center (UC)
Swing By the McCall Center for Civic Engagement table for support registering to vote for the first time or updating your registration with your new campus address. We can help students who want to cast a ballot in Oregon or in any other home state. Pacific is the first and only Voter Friendly Campus in the state of Oregon - join your fellow students as we vote for the future we want to see!

11:30 - 1:00 P.M. | LUNCH ON YOUR OWN
We encourage you to experience the tastes of Forest Grove on your own. Please see our recommendations list of local restaurants (and show your new student ID for a discount!)

“CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE” SESSIONS FOR FAMILIES AND STUDENTS

1:00 - 3:00 P.M. | TOUR OF COLLEGE OF HEALTH PROFESSIONS, HILLSBORO CAMPUS
Creighton Hall Lobby | Hillsboro Campus
Already thinking about a career in the Health Professions? Visit our Hillsboro Campus for a tour of our graduate programs after you've unpacked.

1:00 - 1:45 P.M. | NOTES TO MY YOUNGER SELF: A FIRST-GEN PANEL
Taylor Meade
Join us as first-generation panelists sharing their joys, their challenges, and advice they would give their younger selves regarding college life. This is designed to help provide advice and encouragement to first-generation students and their families as they become actively engaged in this community of lifelong learners. Panelists include Dr. Jenny Coyle, Dr. Jaye Cee Whitehead, alumni and current students!

1:00 - 1:45 P.M. | ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR SEEKING PHYSICAL & MENTAL HEALTHCARE 
Marsh Hall 101
Gain invaluable insights and learn how to make the most of your healthcare resources at Pacific University through presentations by the Student and Employee Health Center, Student Counseling Center, and Student Support. Also offered at 2:00 pm. 

1:00 - 1:45 P.M. | FINANCING PACIFIC 101
Marsh Hall Auditorium
Come chat with Financial Aid and Business Office staff to learn everything you need to know about managing your student account, maintaining financial aid eligibility, and much more! Also offered at 3:00 pm. 

1:00 - 2:30 P.M. | HAWAII OUTREACH AND PROGRAMMING: STUDENT WELCOME 
Multi-Purpose Room, UC
Student session. This session is to discuss the incoming pacific islander student experience and is an opportunity to meet your NHOH Peer Mentors and meet other incoming students.

2:00 - 2:45 P.M. | HOW CAREERS INFLUENCE CHOOSING A MAJOR
McGill Auditorium
In this session we hope to give you a foundation of tools for you to approach your academic and career journeys. You'll learn about the Advising and Career Center and how we can support you with 1:1 appointments, programs, and resources.

2:00 - 2:45 P.M. | YOUR PACIFIC DINING EXPERIENCE 
UC Dining Hall
Let's see what Chef Christian is serving up today... Grab a midday snack and learn about Dining Services with Bon Appetit @ Pacific U. Also offered at 3:00 pm. 

2:00 - 2:45 P.M. | "HAVE YOU TRIED TURNING IT OFF AND ON?"
Boxer Pause, University Center
Meet our University Information Services (UIS) Team and how to navigate campus wifi, printers, email, and more. We promise we aren't phishing for compliments, but our UIS is the best. Also offered at 3:00 pm.  

2:00 - 2:45 P.M. | ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR SEEKING PHYSICAL & MENTAL HEALTHCARE
Marsh Hall 101
Gain invaluable insights and learn how to make the most of your healthcare resources at Pacific University through presentations by the Student and Employee Health Center, Student Counseling Center, and Student Support. 

2:00 - 2:45 P.M. | ¡BIENVENIDO A LA FAMILIA! 
Sala de Marsh (Marsh Auditorium)
Sesión de padres. Sesión informativa en español. Únase a nosotros para una sesión de información especial con la facultad y el personal de Pacific para aprender sobre nuestra Universidad y responder sus preguntas.

3:00 - 3:45 P.M. | STUDY ABROAD WITH PACIFIC
Marsh Auditorium
Get gelato between classes in Italy... Learn about Gaudí in Spain... Study travel writing with the Navajo Nation... Join the Office of International Programs and learn about study abroad opportunities with Pacific. 

3:00 - 3:45 P.M. | "HAVE YOU TRIED TURNING IT OFF AND ON?"
Boxer Pause
Meet our University Information Services (UIS) Team and how to navigate campus wifi, printers, email, and more. We promise we aren't phishing for compliments, but our UIS is the best.

3:00 - 3:45 P.M. | YOUR PACIFIC DINING EXPERIENCE
UC Dining Hall 
Let's see what Chef Christian is serving up today... Grab a midday snack and learn about Dining Services with Bon Appetit @ Pacific U.

3:00 - 3:45 P.M. | FINANCING PACIFIC 101
Marsh Hall 101 
Come chat with Financial Aid and Business Office staff to learn everything you need to know about managing your student account, maintaining financial aid eligibility, and much more!

3:00 - 4:00 P.M. | HAWAII OUTREACH AND PROGRAMMING: PARENT WELCOME 
Multi-Purpose Room (MPR), University Center 
Parent session. This parent session is to discuss the incoming Pacific Islander student experience and is an opportunity to meet faculty and staff and learn how we support students at Pacific.

4:00 - 5:00 P.M. | SCAVENGER HUNT & SQUIRREL PHOTO CONTEST
Marsh East Lawn 
Join your Orientation Leaders for a Pacific-themed scavenger hunt to ge to know your new campus!

5:00 P.M. | DINNER ON YOUR OWN
We encourage you to experience the tastes of Forest Grove on your own (see our recommendations list of local restaurants and show your new student ID for a discount!) or visit the University Center for dinner. Residential students will be provided a voucher valid for at the UC for dinner Thursday. 

5:00 P.M. | BOXER BREW: PARENT MIXER
Ridgewalker Brewing, 1921 21st Ave, Forest Grove, OR 
For parents who may need a "cold one" after a long day of moving in their student, join the "Pacific U Parent" special at Ridgewalker Brewing. Say you're with Pacific and receive a 10% discount!

8:30 - 9:30 P.M. | STAR PARTY
Boxer Garden (near Hansen Stadium)
Join us for a little cosmic perspective to start off the school year. We'll have telescopes set up to look at galaxies, planets, & the Moon, and an informal setting to discuss anything you've ever wondered about the universe!

7:00 – 9:00 P.M. | HALL HANGOUTS
Residence Halls 
What makes your new hall home? Come meet the people you'll live with and kick-off the year with snacks, games like pool and ping-pong, and some door decorating!

 

FRIDAY, AUGUST 25

9:00 - 10:00 A.M. | CONVOCATION & PRESIDENTIAL WELCOME (REQUIRED)
Marsh East Lawn 
Convocation is an important rite of passage for new students at Pacific University.  As undergraduate first-year and transfer students' first Pacific academic ceremony, we celebrate the start of your journey each August. Families and supporters are encouraged to attend.

10:00 - 11:30 A.M. | COMMUNITY WELCOME BRUNCH
Quad 
Join us for a community brunch immediately following Convocation. Families and supporters are invited to attend.

11:30 – 4:30 P.M. | STUDENT SESSIONS

11:30 - 12:30 P.M. | MEET YOUR ORIENTATION LEADER
Marsh West Lawn 
Required student session. Get to know your Orientation Leader and other new students in a small group setting. Refer to your welcome packet for more information.

1:00 - 2:30 P.M. | FYS CLASS
Various Classrooms
Required student session. Calling all First-Year Students, it’s time for the first class of the year! Students should refer to their Orientation packet for details. 

1:00 - 1:45 P.M. | TRANSFER STUDENTS: DECLARING YOUR MAJOR AND STAYING ON TRACK TO GRADUATE
Marsh Hall Auditorium 
Required for Transfer Students. Join professional advisors from the Academic & Career Advising Center for tips, tricks, and an overview on tracking your academic progress. This presentation will help you learn how to stay on track for graduation on the timeline that you may be expecting.

2:30 - 3:30 P.M. | MEET YOUR ACADEMIC ADVISOR 
Various locations
Required for all New Students - Freshman and Transfer. Meet with your advisor to learn about the support they will provide to you at Pacific and how they will help you to stay on track for graduation! Check your Orientation folder to see your advisor’s name and office or designated meeting location.

1:30 - 2:30 P.M. | "GRAB AND GO" SNACK BREAK
University Center Patio 
Grab a quick snack provided by Chenin and the Bon Appetit catering team!

11:30 – 4:30 P.M. | PARENT AND FAMILY SESSIONS

11:30 - 12:30 P.M. | SAFETY ON CAMPUS 
McGill Auditorium
Parent Session. Meet your Campus Public Safety team and learn what Pacific is doing to keep your students safe. 

1:00 - 1:30 P.M. | HELPING YOUR STUDENT SUCCEED 
University Center Patio 
Parent Session. Transitioning to college is the next right of passage for your student. Learn how you can support your new college student on this journey with a panel of Deans of Students and Student Affairs staff. Also offered at 2:30 pm. 

1:00 - 1:30 P.M. | YOUR STUDENT'S PACIFIC DINING EXPERIENCE 
UC Dining Hall 
Parent Session. We know parents want to make sure their students are getting fed. Here is your chance to meet our chef and dining leadership team! Also offered at 1:45 pm. 

1:00 - 1:30 P.M. | SEE YOU AT THE GAME! 
Taylor Meade Auditorium 
Parent Session. Are you the parent of a student-athlete? Join us for a special panel with Athletic Director Keith Buckley and some of our superstar coaches. GO BOXERS!

1:00 - 2:15 P.M. | ¡BIENVENIDO A LA FAMILIA! 
Boxer Pause, University Center
Sesión de padres. Sesión informativa en español. Únase a nosotros para una sesión de información especial con la facultad y el personal de Pacific para aprender sobre nuestra Universidad y responder sus preguntas.

1:45 - 2:15 P.M. | YOUR STUDENT'S PACIFIC DINING EXPERIENCE 
UC Dining Hall 
Parent Session. We know parents want to make sure their students are getting fed. Here is your chance to meet our chef and dining leadership team! 

1:45 - 2:15 P.M. | UNDERSTANDING CAMPUS HOUSING 
Taylor Meade Auditorium 
Parent Session. Are you curious to learn about residence life? Our Campus Living is here to share what living on campus is like for new students and help answer your questions.

1:45 - 2:15 P.M. | FINANCING PACIFIC 101
Marsh Hall Auditorium 
Parent Session. Come chat with Financial Aid and Business Office staff to learn everything you need to know about managing your student account, maintaining financial aid eligibility, and much more!

2:30 - 3:00 P.M. | MEET YOUR ACADEMIC DEANS  
Taylor Meade Auditorium 
Parent Session. Our College Deans take center stage to share overviews of their colleges and answer your questions regarding academics at Pacific and what your student can expect. 

2:30 - 3:00 P.M. | HELPING YOUR STUDENT SUCCEED
Marsh Auditorium 
Parent Session. Transitioning to college is the next right of passage for your student. Learn how you can support your new college student on this journey with a panel of Deans of Students and Student Affairs staff.

2:30 - 3:00 P.M. | HOW CAREERS INFLUENCE CHOOSING A MAJOR
Marsh Hall 101 
Parent Session. Our Academic & Career Advising Center is here to help you navigate supporting your student as they choose their majors and explore potential career paths.

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3:30 - 5:30 P.M. | SIGN, SHAKE AND RING (AND PARENT GOODBYE)
Old College Hall 
Sign, Shake and Ring is a tradition unique to Pacific University, with origins dating back to the late 1880s or early 1900s when students signed a ledger to signify enrollment. In this digital age, we no longer need that signature on the book, but we still think it's a fun tradition to keep alive! Students will get a chance to sign the book, ring the bell in Old College Hall, and shake hands with the President. Parents are invited to join and say a fond farewell to your student!

4:30 - 6:00 P.M. | DINNER
UC Dining Hall  
A special tailgate-themed dinner in the UC before kick off.

5:00 - 7:00 P.M. | RED & BLACK SCRIMMAGE
Hansen Stadium 
Pacific Athletics kicks off the 2023-2024 season with the first scrimmage at 5:00 PM. See you in the bleachers!

6:00 - 8:00 P.M. | BOARD GAME BONANZA
Clark Hall Fishbowl 
Join the friendly competition among your fellow new Boxers at our game night. Bring your favorite game to share or enjoy one of ours. 

6:30 - 7:30 P.M. | READ NEAR ME
Starbucks  
Are you an introvert who just wants to sit quietly with a book, but also "socialize" with your new peers? Well, join some fellow nerds for a quiet reading event. Bring your book, grab a drink, and spend some time in community.

8:00 - 10:00 P.M. | COMEDYSPORTZ
Taylor Meade 
For our stand-up comedy, improv or theater fans, we bring you ComedySportz, a Portland-based improv comedy group! It’s going to be a riot of a good time.

 

SATURDAY, AUGUST 26

8:30 A.M. - 9:30 A.M. | BREAKFAST
UC Dining Hall  
Stop by the University Center for some brain fuel before your required academic sessions begin. 

10:00 – 1:00 | “FALL COURSE PREP SESSIONS" 
Please see your orientation packet at check in for your assigned sessions. These sessions are required for all new students.

YOU'VE GOT THIS! - ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS AND ACADEMIC HONESTY (REQUIRED) | Pacific courses are challenging, but you can do it!  Learn more about academic expectations at Pacific and how to avoid academic misconduct.

TIME MANAGEMENT 2.0: HACKS AND HABITS FOR SUCCESS (REQUIRED) | College can be a stressful time for many students and time management can be one of the most crucial — but tricky — skills to master. Join Pacific's Academic & Career Advising Center staff for some helpful tips.

MAXIMIZE YOUR LEARNING WITH PEER TUTORING SUPPORT (REQUIRED) | Join the Center for Learning and Student Success (CLASS) to learn about Pacific's free peer tutoring program. You'll find out how students can access our services, how tutoring can benefit all students, and meet a few peer tutors in person! Tutoring is for everyone, and all are encouraged to join us for this valuable session.

STUDENT SUPPORT AND ACCOMMODATIONS (REQUIRED) | Learn about how the Office of Accessibility and Accommodations and the Office of Student Support can help you navigate some of the challenges of college.

Academic Group 1:

• 10:00 - 10:30 | Academic Expectations and Academic Honesty
• 10:45 - 11:15 | Student Support and Accommodations
• 11:30 - 12:00 | Maximize Your Learning with Peer Tutoring Support
• 12:15 - 12:45 | Time Management 2.0: Hacks and Habits for Success

Academic Group 2:

• 10:00 - 10:30 | Time Management 2.0: Hacks and Habits for Success
• 10:45 - 11:15 | Academic Expectations and Academic Honesty
• 11:30 - 12:00 | Student Support and Accommodations
• 12:15 - 12:45 | Maximize Your Learning with Peer Tutoring Support

Academic Group 3:

• 10:00 - 10:30 | Maximize Your Learning with Peer Tutoring Support
• 10:45 - 11:15 | Time Management 2.0: Hacks and Habits for Success
• 11:30 - 12:00 | Academic Expectations and Academic Honesty
• 12:15 - 12:45 | Student Support and Accommodations

Academic Group 4:

• 10:00 - 10:30 | Student Support and Accommodations
• 10:45 - 11:15 | Maximize Your Learning with Peer Tutoring Support
• 11:30 - 12:00 | Time Management 2.0: Hacks and Habits for Success
• 12:15 - 12:45 | Academic Expectations and Academic Honesty

Your schedule for the above sessions will be listed in your orientation packet at check in. These sessions are required for all new students.

 

11:30 - 1:30 P.M. | LUNCH 
UC Dining Hall  
Grab lunch in the UC before our afternoon activities start. 

“CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE” AFTERNOON SESSIONS

1:30 - 3:30 P.M. | FINDER KEEPERS FREE STORE POP UP
Drake House 
Visit Pacific's Finders Keepers Free Store, a student and faculty run store where all the items are free. Stock up on items for your wardrobe and your room.
 
1:30 - 2:30 P.M. | FITNESS CENTER ORIENTATION
Stoller Center
An opportunity to familiarize yourself with Pacific's Fitness Center and recreational opportunities. Learn about available strength and cardio equipment, hours of operation, facility policies, and checking out equipment. All levels of fitness are welcome.

1:30 - 2:30 P.M. | HAWAII OUTREACH AND PROGRAMMING: TASTE OF HOME TOUR
Meet in front of Clark Hall  
Prior RSVP required. A special session for NHOH Peer Mentors and incoming students. Join the NHOH Peer Mentors to taste some ʻono grinds at restaurants and visit shops in Forest Grove. 

2:00 - 3:00 P.M. | ACCESSIBILITY AND ACCOMMODATIONS OPEN HOUSE
Clark Hall Fishbowl
Students with disabilities (including physical, mental, and/or non-presenting disabilities.) or those with questions are encouraged to join in community. Learn about resources available at Pacific and build your support networks.

2:00 - 3:00 P.M.| VOLLEYBALL
Clark Hall Sandpit
Participate in a popular Pacific pastime - volleyball at the Sandpit! 

2:00 - 3:00 P.M. | EXPLORE THE LIBRARY
Tran Library
Our Pacific Libraries team has a special session in store to familiarize you with your new favorite place to study.

2:00 - 3:30 P.M. | HOUSEPLANTING
UC Patio
Pick a pot and plant yourself a little houseplant for your new room. You are on your own remembering to water though…

2:00 - 3:00 P.M. | COMMUTER STUDENT OPEN HOUSE
Tran Library 24-Hour Study Space
Are you a commuter student and unsure what resources or activities are available to you? Meet our Pacific team and other students here to help you.

2:30 - 3:30 P.M. | ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN STUDENT UNION (APASU) OPEN HOUSE
Boxer Pause, University Center
Join our Asian Pacific American Student Union at the Student Multicultural Center for  an informal open house. We'll share some information about APASU and provide ways to cultivate connection.

3:00 - 4:00 P.M. | BLACK STUDENT UNION (BSU) OPEN HOUSE
Student Multicultural Center (UC Lower Level)
Join our Black Student Union (BSU) for an informal open house. We'll share some information about BSU and provide ways to cultivate connections!

3:00 - 5:00 P.M. | GAMING WITH GONGAII GAMES
Gongaii Games, 2017 Main Street, Forest Grove
Head down to Gongaii Games in downtown Forest Grove, only a couple of blocks away, to play some fun board games! You don't need to knwo any rules before you walk in the door - they can teach you everything.

3:00 - 5:00 P.M. | DODGEBALL TOURNAMENT
Stoller Center
Don't forget, the five D’s of dodgeball are “dodge, duck, dip, dive, and dodge.” Join us for a Pacific dodgeball tournament hosted by Intramurals & Recreation and the Office of International Programs!

3:00 - 4:00 P.M. | TRANSFER STUDENT OPEN HOUSE
Clark Hall 3rd Floor | Transfer Student Lounge 
As a transfer student, you may have already successfully navigated college elsewhere, but this open house gives you the opportunity to meet with other new students and get any last-minute questions answered.

3:30 - 4:30 P.M. | INDIGENOUS STUDENT ALLIANCE (ISA) OPEN HOUSE
Marsh Hall 101
Join our Indigenous Student Alliance for an informal open house. We'll share some information about ISA and provide ways to cultivate connections!

3:30 - 4:30 P.M. | YOGA
Warner Hall Room 4
Quiet your busy mind and take a moment to breathe with a gentle yoga practice, hosted by Intramurals & Recreation.

3:30 - 5:30  P.M. | ART ATTACK
Boxer Pause
Stretch your creativity. Bring your current hobby or start a new one with some of our arts and crafts supplies.

4:00 - 5:00 P.M. | LGBTQIA+ OPEN HOUSE
Location TBA
Visit the Center for Gender Equity (CGE) for an informal social. We'll share some information about resources that the CGE provides (condoms, menstrual products, etc.), share details about our programs and upcoming calendar of events, and offer opportunities to cultivate connections among LGBTQIA+ students and allies.

4:30 - 5:30 P.M. | VETERAN & MILITARY OPEN HOUSE
Clark Hall 3rd Floor | Veteran's Lounge
Visit our Veterans & Military Service Center.  We'll share some important information about applying your veteran benefits here at Pacific, give you time to get to know our staff, and provide ways to form bonds with your new peers. We hope you'll come hang out with us!

5:00 - 7:00 P.M. | DINNER 
Served in the UC
Dinner served in the University Center dining hall. 

5:30 - 6:30 P.M. | ASSOCIATION OF LATINX AND ALLY STUDENTS (ALAS) OPEN HOUSE
Student Multicultural Center (UC Lower Level)
Join our Association of Latinx and Ally Students for an informal open house. We'll share some information about ALAS and provide ways to cultivate connections.

6:30 - 9:00 P.M. | FREE BUILD: LEGOS
Boxer Pause
Let your imagination run wild and create a cool construction with LEGOs!

7:00 - 10:00 P.M. | OUTDOOR DANCE
Trombley Square
It's like a TikTok dance, but IRL. Join other students for Pacific's first dance of the year. Glowsticks provided.

 

SUNDAY, AUGUST 27

8:30 - 9:30 A.M. | CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST
Served in the UC
If you’re an early riser, grab a quick breakfast from the UC. Like to sleep in? Brunch starts at 11:30 AM.

9:45 - 11:30 AM | CAN I KISS YOU?
Stoller Gym
Required. Come together with your fellow Boxers to learn how we can work together to keep our community safe, led by the Center for Respect. 

11:30 - 1:30 PM | BRUNCH
Served in the UC

1:00 - 2:00 P.M. | FOREST GROVE EXPERIENCE: COFFEE ROASTING 
UC Patio
Join local coffee roasters for your first cup of joe. Learn about coffee roasting and our many local coffee shops.

1:00 - 3:00 P.M. | FOREST GROVE EXCURSION: FRED MEYER
Need lights to make your dorm pop? Forget your lucky pen? Grab those last minute items with a visit to Fred Meyer's! Shuttle vans provided, meet at the lawn between Walter and McCormick Halls. If you have accessibility requirements, please contact orientation@pacificu.edu in advance. Meet at Clark Hall at 12:30 PM. Bus leaves at 1:00 PM and will return no later than 3:00 PM.

1:00 - 3:00 P.M. | SUNDAE FUNDAY: GOAT EDITION
Marsh East Lawn
Get to know some Nigerian Dwarf Goats enjoy a sweet treat!

1:00 - 3:00 P.M. | MAKE A FUZZY FRIEND WITH RESIDENCE HALL ASSOCIATION
Quad
Create your own stuffed animal and meet your student leaders from the Residence Hall Association. Take home a fuzzy friend and connect with your community in this fluff-filled event.

1:00 - 3:00 P.M. | CHARACTER BUILDING: TABLE TOP GAME PLAY
Boxer Pause
Start a campaign of D&D, play a board game, show off your card collection. 

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3:00 P.M. | PREP FOR CLASSES
Sunday afternoon has been kept open for students to prep for their first week of classes. Come by the UC Info Desk before 5:00 pm, if you need any assistance and staff will be on hand to help. 

5:00 P.M. | INFO DESK CLOSES

5:00 - 7:45 PM | DINNER
Served in the UC

7:00 - 8:30 P.M. | ALL-ATHLETE MEETING
Stoller Gym
All student-athletes are required to attend.