First Year Transitions: Orientation

Congratulations! You made it!

You are about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime and it takes careful preparation to chart a successful course. Orientation 2009 will help you explore opportunities and plug into the resources you need to gear up for this journey. All new students are expected to attend Orientation.

Highlights of Orientation 2009:

  • A welcoming and friendly environment where you can get your questions answered
  • Introduction to the academic and social life of the campus
  • Meeting your classmates and making new friends
  • Individual attention from a variety of caring faculty, students and administrators
  • Superior academic advising
  • Registering for your classes via BearPAWS (our new web registration system)
  • The opportunity to become acquainted with a wide array of campus services that will help you make the most of your Potsdam education
  • A range of excellent programs and activities for your family
  • An opportunity to learn about and take advantage of some of Potsdam's new first year initiatives including Learning Communities, First Year Experience and the First Year Success Seminar


In short, this is your opportunity to explore the landscape and make connections. You can get started soon by registering on-line with BearPAWS. To register on-line you will need to login in the secure area. Instructions are available on the BearPAWS main page.

There are a variety of sessions to meet your individual needs and the needs of your family. Our goal is to make sure you have the information you need to embark on this exciting journey.