Describes the characteristics of today's college student population, noting ways in which they differ from the students of the past and exploring what the characteristics of these students means for the design and conduct of orientation programs. (SLD)

Studied patterns of student declarations of major at a university at which one-third of incoming freshmen are undeclared. Findings for 449 students show that in the study period, 248 students had declared majors, with more than half of these choosing by their second or third semester, and almost all declaring with fewer than 46 credits. (SLD)

Assessed the freshman orientation program at Stephen F. Austin State University in terms of academic success of participants. Data were obtained for freshman classes from 1986 to 1994, and results of data analyses indicated a significantly higher grade point average for those who attended orientation. (SLD)

Evaluated a freshman orientation program at a southeastern research university through questionnaires completed by 1,048 (80%) of the entering freshman class. Responses suggest that students themselves are not sure what orientation programs do or are supposed to do, although they were generally satisfied with the program. (SLD)

Studied the messages being conveyed to prospective students in campus visits and summer orientation sessions at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Findings for 497 prospective students show that the visit and orientation program may be effective, but programs are trying to communicate too much. Findings also show the importance of the campus…

Discusses the origins, philosophy, and current status of student financial aid, asserting that this information is important for orientation personnel as they develop programs and promote a holistic view of student success, including how students pay for college. (EV)

Investigated what new student orientation coordinators perceive to be the most effective strategies for incorporating technology into orientation programs. Found that coordinators agreed most strongly with the notion of emphasizing the importance of technology to new students, coupled with providing email accounts to new students immediately upon…

Studied the perceptions of first and second year college students about their preparedness and technical competence at college entry to use the computer and software applications. Survey responses from 338 students suggest that entering students felt better prepared than second year thought they had been, and that all students make gains over time…

Discusses the integration of wilderness pursuits and outdoor opportunities with more traditional student orientation activities, an area of programming that has become increasingly popular over the last several years in response to changing student interests. Addresses the structure of wilderness pursuit orientation programs, liability issues, and…