Summer and Fall Parent & Family Orientation
Although not mandatory, we highly encourage all parents or guardians supporting First-Time Freshmen to attend Parent & Family Orientation. The program is designed to assist parents' understanding of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, our academic programs, and student services. In addition, the program is structured to help you understand your student's transition into college life and how you can best support your student through those transitions.
If you are unable to attend an in-person orientation session, we invite you to participate in our Online Parent & Family Orientation experience which you will be able to complete at your own pace. The Parent & Family online orientation for Summer and Fall 2024 is now available on this website.
In-Person Orientation Dates
| Session Name | Orientation Date |
|---|---|
| Early Orientation & Summer School Session* | May 20-21, 2025 |
| Fall Session 1 | June 4-5, 2025 |
| Fall Session 2 | June 16-17, 2025 |
| Fall Session 3 | June 23-24, 2025 |
| Fall Session 4 | June 25-26, 2025 |
| Fall Session 5 | July 14-15, 2025 |
| Fall Session 6 | July 16-17, 2025 |
| Fall Session 7 | July 28-29, 2025 |
*Early Orientation & Summer School Session is only available to the families of students who are beginning their studies in the Summer semester OR who qualify for Early Orientation. View more information about Early Orientation for students online here.
Registration
Registration for Summer and Fall 2025 Parent & Family Orientation is completed through the student orientation registration system. When your student registers for orientation online, they will have the option to register up to two guests to attend Parent & Family Orientation. Registration opens on March 1, 2025.
Please note: Due to limited space capacities, our two guests per student limit will be strictly enforced. Thank you for understanding!
Schedule at a Glance - Subject to change
Parent & Family Orientation is a completely optional program. The bulk of our informational presentations for Parent & Family Orientation will take place on Day 1. For parents and guardians who are only able to attend one day of orientation, we encourage you to attend Day 1 so that you do not miss out on these important informational sessions. However, students are required to attend both full days of their orientation.
Day 1 - Parent & Family Informational Sessions (12:30 PM - 7:30 PM)
Check-In
University Welcome
Ragin' Cajun Classroom
Life Outside the Classroom
Money Matters
Supporting Your Student
President's Welcome Reception - Our guests' favorite orientation event!
Bus Tour
Day 2 - Parent & Family Sessions Continued (8:30 AM - 5:00 PM)
Hidden Gems Walking Tour
Dean's Discussion - Meet your student's Academic Dean for a Q&A session!
Residential & Commuter Interest Sessions
Campus Partners Q&A
Financial Aid Appointments
Residence Hall Tours
Additional Information
Below you will find other important details about Parent & Family Orientation. Registered guests will also receive a confirmation email with more information one week before their scheduled Parent & Family Orientation.
- Fee: There is currently no fee to attend Parent & Family Orientation, but guests should be prepared to purchase their own meals.
- Overnight Accommodations: We are unable to offer on-campus accommodations for parents and guests. Please view our list of local hotels and rates.
- Schedule of Events: Will be emailed one week before your orientation date and a printed copy will be provided at check-in. See the Schedule at a Glance above and contact us with any questions.
- President's Welcome Reception: We encourage you to join us for a casual welcome reception with our University President, Dr. Joseph Savoie. Light refreshments will be provided as you mix and mingle with fellow parents as well as University administrators, deans, and staff. The President's Welcome Reception is our top-rated event that you won't want to miss!
- Parking: Specific parking instructions will be emailed to registered orientation attendees one week prior to their scheduled orientation.
Student Orientation Information
Summer & Fall Orientation is an in-person program for students starting their studies at UL Lafayette in the Summer or Fall semester. More information about New Student Orientation is available online here.
Questions?
Please visit our Frequently Asked Questions page or contact our office at orientation@louisiana.edu or 337-482-1391 for more information.