We believe that every incoming student belongs here

and can succeed at Oregon State University.

Where are we?

We are located in historic Waldo Hall, suite 102.

Waldo hall was named after Clara H. Waldo in 1907 when it opened as a woman's dormitory.

What do we do?

  We facilitate the START orientation program three times per year in the summer for incoming fall term students, between fall and winter terms for incoming winter term students, and between winter and spring terms for incoming spring term students.

  We facilitate the OSUWelcome program, which includes many events to assist new students in their transition to Oregon state university.

  We facilitate parent and family programs that fall into the orientation or transition categoires as well, including Fall and Spring family weekends.

Our History

The Office of Student Orientation (OSO) has a new name as of 2021, but a long history at Oregon State University.

  • In 1996, on-site orientation began in Hawaii to serve students who wouldn't otherwise be able to attend START.
  • Around 2000, Admissions and Orientation became SOAR (Student Orientation and Retention).
  • In 2006, SOAR changed their name to NSPFO (New Student Programs and Family Outreach), moved to the Kerr basement, and changed from reporting to Admissions to Student Life (now the Dean of Students).
  • In 2008, START Bilingue begins to increase communication with Spanish-speaking families.
  • in 2015, NSPFO moves to Kerr 150 and then in 2018 to Kerr A30.
  • In 2015, Connect becomes Welcome Week.
  • In 2019, NSPFO moves to Waldo 102.
  • In 2020, NSPFO hosts their first completely virtual orientation, followed by a second completely virtual orientation in 2021.
  • In 2021, NSPFO changed their name to OSO and Welcome Week becomes OSUWelcome.