Student orientation sessions begin June 10


Wed, 06/05/2013

author

Sarah Crawford-Parker

LAWRENCE New students will start their experience at the University of Kansas when orientation begins Monday, June 10.

Incoming freshmen, transfer students, and parents and guests will participate in 21 sessions between now and the start of the 2013-14 academic year.

“Orientation is when students and their guests learn what it means to attend a flagship university like KU,” said Sarah Crawford-Parker, director of the Office of First-Year Experience. “They learn about the expectations and challenges they will meet at KU, but they also experience for the first time the incredible opportunities they will have as undergraduates and the programs and services across campus that will support them as they start down the road to graduation.”

This year’s incoming freshman class will be the first to enroll in KU Core, KU’s first universitywide curriculum. The KU Core provides a flexible, uniquely KU educational experience regardless of degree or major.

Students will receive a copy of the 2013-14 KU Common Book, “The Worst Hard Time” by Timothy Egan, at their orientation session. The Common Book plays an important role in the student’s first year, including a visit to campus by the author September 26-27.

KU’s 16 student orientation assistants have read “The Worst Hard Time” and are excited to share the book with incoming students. 

“Egan's work is not only historically significant, but his integration of personal narratives provides the proper challenge of a college text. Through the utilization of my critical thinking skills, empathy and a strong passion for understanding the world around me, I've gleaned so much more than I had ever expected,” said Hannah Jayne, a senior from New Prague, Minn.

“I also appreciate the resiliency our book demonstrates in the people of the Midwest that stayed during the Dust Bowl,” said Jordan Hildenbrand, a sophomore from Blue Springs, Mo.  “I think that resiliency is vital for the collegiate experience and is still very prominent in many of the students here at the University of Kansas.”

Students will also have an opportunity to engage in additional programs offered by the Office of First-Year Experience, including KU Learning Communities and 20 First-Year Seminars being offered during the fall semester. Complete descriptions are available.

Wed, 06/05/2013

author

Sarah Crawford-Parker

Media Contacts

Sarah Crawford-Parker

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785-864-4225