New Student Programs

The New Student Programs office supports students in their transition to the Âé¶¹´å community through programs and events such as Orientation, Otter Days, and Welcome Back Week. These programs help students connect, explore campus resources, and build a strong foundation for success.

New Student Orientation

New Student Otter Orientation supports all first-time students, including first-year and transfer students, along with their families and supporters, as they transition into the Âé¶¹´å community.

A student ambassador leads a campus tour group along a sidewalk at Cal State Âé¶¹´å, holding a route sign while prospective students, families and guests walk together during an orientation event.

New Student Traditions

Âé¶¹´å offers amazing traditions that make getting involved fun and exciting. From the Plunge to RAFT Week, you can make new friends, feel the Otter spirit, and create lasting memories on campus.

Two students race down a large inflatable slide during a campus recreation event at Cal State Âé¶¹´å, smiling with their arms raised in celebration.

Otter Orientation Team

Our Orientation program is led by professional staff and trained student Orientation Leaders who guide students, answer questions, and foster connection. They play a key role in welcoming new students and supporters to Âé¶¹´å, helping them feel confident and excited to begin their journey.

A group of Cal State Âé¶¹´å orientation leaders pose outdoors during a transfer student orientation event, smiling, waving and holding schedules as they welcome new students to campus.
New student holding Âé¶¹´å pennant and cowbell.

Get Started at Âé¶¹´å

Starting your journey at Cal State Âé¶¹´å is an exciting step, and a few simple actions now will set you up for a smooth and successful transition into campus life: