Hello there! My name is Mya Curry! 👋
I am a senior Middle Grades Education major at Valdosta State University. This is my second year as a Blazer Beginnings Orientation Leader. My first year as an orientation leader was met with a few challenges as the entire country was forced to move virtually. Despite the challenges, I had a wonderful experience. I am blessed to work with an incredible team of Orientation Leaders and work alongside Mrs. Brenda Beasley (Director of Orientation) and Ms. Beverly Cribbs (Director of First-Year Programs) to ensure that all of our newest Blazers and their guests have the best Orientation experience.
Coming to VSU was the best decision I have ever made! I have met many amazing professors and lifelong friends who have made my experience here one I will never forget. As a first-generation college student, I know all too well about the struggles and insecurities that can come with starting college. From the fear of leaving home and meeting new people to the excitement of joining different clubs and organizations, I have felt some of the same emotions. My goal in life is to make a difference in my community, and I knew that being an orientation leader was the route I wanted to take. During the summer, I enjoy bonding with the Orientation Leader team, collaborating with various VSU faculty and staff, and welcoming our newest class of Blazers to this great institution.
Orientation can be overwhelming, but we’re here to make the process go as smoothly as possible. Try not to stress but think of Orientation as a quick guide to VSU.
Your Blazer Beginnings Orientation Questions Answered
Q: When will I receive my class schedule?
A: Your academic advising team will begin creating your summer or fall class schedule once you submit the required My Majors Assessment & Pre-Enrollment Survey and email a copy of the schedule to you before your scheduled on-campus orientation date. This is contingent upon you submitting the assessment and survey at least 2 weeks before your orientation session. If you do not have a schedule by your session date, an academic advisor will work with you to create your class schedule the day of your session; this may add extra time to your session day.
Q: When will I receive my housing assignment?
A: First-year students will receive their housing assignments for the 2021-2022 academic year in July; check the main Housing page for an exact date. This will also include information about your Residence Hall and various tips on your move into campus housing.
Q: How do I find out more about financial aid?
A: At every Orientation session, Financial Aid staff and counselors meet with students and parents on an individual basis. Families can make appointments to meet on their orientation date or just drop in while on campus for orientation. There will also be an information session during Orientation with staff explaining how to pay student fees and tuition.
Q: Will I find out information about student organizations at Orientation?
A: Absolutely! Our Office of Student Life will be available from check-in through lunch to get you connected. There will also be a Fraternity & Sorority Life workshop available. Our Orientation Leaders are also very involved on and off-campus, so they are great resources to utilize for asking questions about getting involved at #VState.
Q: How long is Orientation from start to finish?
A: Orientation check-in is from 9:00 am to 11:00 am; check-in at your convenience and visit our many campus partners as they open their doors for you. This is a time we have designed for you and your family to visit and engage with members across campus to learn about academic and non-academic resources. We have a map and OL team members ready to help you make your way around to see and learn from our staff about campus topics that are important to you. This is a time that you can make an appointment to meet with Financial Aid, meet your academic advisor, learn about student life, meal plans, parking, health services, and much more, so bring your walking shoes (and maybe an umbrella)! Although this may sound extensive, you will leave with a wealth of knowledge about various departments and offices across campus which will be vital information to take home. Typically, students and parents are done with Orientation by 5:30 p.m.
Q: What should I bring to Orientation?
A: For students, you must bring photo identification; we will use this to verify your identity when you check-in. I would also suggest bringing any documents that our Admissions staff may need such as proof of lawful presence in the United States (ex. birth certificate, state driver’s license, etc.), final high school transcripts, dual enrollment credits, and/or immunization forms. We always recommend an umbrella – afternoon showers are bound to happen in Valdosta! The day will require movement around our campus, walking shoes are a good idea too!
Q: How much does it cost to attend Orientation?
A: To attend Orientation, costs are $55 for the student and $25 per guest accompanying a student. We will be strictly enforcing our two-guest limit to comply with CDC and USG social distancing requirements. Face coverings are required for everyone on our campus. Your safety is our main goal.
Q: Can my parents come to Orientation?
A: Yes! We strongly encourage that parents or guardians be present at Orientation so that they will receive all of the important information that they need while their student does the same. Throughout the day, we offer information sessions that are beneficial for parents and guardians. Also, we do kindly ask that each student and their guests adhere to our program policy of two guests each. This limit is based on the physical capacity of the University’s facilities per current CDC guidelines.
Q: Do I pick out my dining plan at Orientation?
A: You sure can! You will learn about meal plan options from our Dining staff. While you do have the ability to change your meal plan option up to three times, we encourage each student to consult with their parents/guardians, as well as the Blazer Dining staff when it comes to choosing the right meal plan.
Q: What do I wear?
A: Summers in Valdosta can be blazin’ hot! Therefore, I would recommend wearing comfortable, breathable clothes to your Orientation session. Students and family members will be walking to various areas for part of the day, so comfortable shoes are also important! Additionally, I would suggest bringing other items such as jackets and umbrellas, because we never know when a rain cloud may visit us! If you forget any of these items, the VSU Bookstore will have you covered. The Bookstore carries a variety of #VState clothes, weather gear, and other necessities that you may need during your time on campus. Please remember your mask and/or face covering – a campus requirement.
Q: What action is the University System/VSU taking to protect students, guests, faculty, and staff from COVID-19?
A: We continue to prioritize the safety of our orientation families, along with that of our students, faculty, and staff, so even if you are considered at-risk, you are still welcome to join us in person for orientation. Visit our website for more information reading our COVID campus plan.
Learn more about your day at Blazer Beginnings Orientation today!
