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Welcome to Oregon State!

Joining Beaver Nation is more than just attending your first class – you're entering a worldwide community and launching a new phase in your life. There’s a lot to know, so we’ve built a step-by-step onboarding sequence that will support you both during your initial orientation and throughout your first year. This is where your OSU journey begins. 

OSU student works on online modules on their laptop in front of a mural of Oregon mountains

1. Prepare: Online Modules

To begin your onboarding sequence, you’ll complete online modules and other tasks that prepare you for the virtual advising and registration phase. These modules contain core knowledge you’ll need for academic advising, and will help you understand the different processes and tools Oregon State uses to support your academic journey. Before you can register for advising, register for classes, or sign up for a Launch session, you must first complete the Prepare online modules.

OSU student laughing and chatting with peers

2. Activate: Virtual Advising and Registration

During the Activate phase, you’ll connect with academic advisors who will help you understand key academic requirements and select courses for your first term. Your advisor is a part of your success team at Oregon State and is looking forward to helping you get set up! By the end of the Activate phase, you should be registered for your first term of classes at OSU.

Orientation Leader engages with student peers during Launch

3. Launch: Orientation Program

Launch Days are your chance to visit campus and learn more about what it means to be a student at Oregon State. At this one-day event, you can meet other new Beavs, explore resources, ask questions, and connect with staff from your college. You’ll discover ways to get involved in student activities, academic programs, and more. If you can’t attend in person, we’ll have a virtual alternative and we offer an on-site variation in Hawaii. After completing Launch, you’ll be familiar with what awaits you on campus and ready to get plugged in during Connect!

Benny the beaver marches with students during an OSU Connect event

4. Connect: Pre-Term Immersive Experience

The Connect phase will kick off your first term. During this multi-day experience you'll form lasting connections with your fellow students, attend events and participate in activities, learn Oregon State traditions, and build up your academic skills. Everyone comes to OSU with unique experiences and stories – Connect is our chance to come together as one community before the term starts. You’re an important piece of the OSU ecosystem; Connect will help you find your place in Beaver Nation and get you ready to start the term strong. 

OSU students walk through the OSU campus during spring while flowers are in bloom

5. Engage: Yearlong Support and Community-Building

Orientation doesn’t end after the first week. During your first year, you'll take part in a Transitions course designed to expand your skills and knowledge for success at OSU, and ongoing academic advising will give you an important regular touch point with your success team. The Engage phase will help you deepen your connections to the OSU community through ongoing events and opportunities that support your success throughout your first year.