Campus Life

Students preview college life through New Student Orientation

This summer, approximately 800 first-year students who will begin their studies in the fall semester at Penn State Berks will get a preview of what college life will be like through the New Student Orientation program. Credit: Penn State. Creative Commons

WYOMISSING, Pa. — This summer, approximately 800 first-year students who will begin their studies in the fall semester at Penn State Berks will get a preview of what college life will be like through the New Student Orientation (NSO) program, which runs from mid- to late-June, beginning on June 18.

"Berks NSO is an important program for students and their families,” explained Paula Plageman, coordinator of academic advising at Penn State Berks. “During this program, our first-year students receive an excellent academic orientation to Penn State University as a whole, as well as information that is specific to Penn State Berks. Students learn about academic requirements and receive guidance as they schedule their fall courses. The program is designed to help prepare students to be academically successful and to begin to develop ownership of their educational experience.” 

The day-long program includes a meeting with an academic adviser, informational programming and scheduling. Students and their families are introduced to many important aspects of earning a degree at Penn State. Some of the topics include the wide range of academic degree programs available, degree requirements and classroom expectations. Additionally, students learn about their placement test results, have their photo ID taken, meet other incoming students, learn about the many ways they can get involved on campus and get a brief introduction to the technology they will use as Penn State students.

While some of the activities are only for the students, families are invited and encouraged to come to NSO with their student and attend the general sessions, as well as sessions presented specifically for families. Students and families will learn about the many support services that Penn State Berks has to offer.

For more information, contact the Berks Academic Advising Center at 610-396-6280.

Last Updated June 19, 2019