Santa Clara University

We designed a broad and comprehensive program with considerable input from parents of current SCU students. Programs include a question and answer period with the dean of students, curriculum presentations from the academic deans, small group discussions with current students, “preview classes” hosted by our esteemed faculty, and a reception with the University president. Parents will also have the opportunity to meet other parents, including those whose students share the same RLC.

Parent Orientation gives a broad overview of the academic curriculum, provides a better understanding of campus life issues, outlines opportunities for student engagement, and offers advice on how to stay connected with students over the next four years. Each year, parents who join us for orientation indicate that they would strongly recommend parents of future SCU students attend this program.

Although students and parents attend Summer Orientation together, programs for each group are presented separately.

In addition to the Summer Orientation program, students and parents will also attend Welcome Weekend at the start of the fall quarter. The weekend begins with residence hall move-in on Saturday, Sept. 20. The parent program ends at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 21. If one parent or guest wishes to attend Summer Orientation and another attends Welcome Weekend, there is no additional charge; additional family members or guests attending Welcome Weekend will be charged $20 per person. More information will be sent over the summer and will also be available online at www.scu.edu/welcomeweekend.

The program schedule for Summer Orientation is significantly different from Welcome Weekend. While there is an opportunity to gather information at each event, Parent Orientation is the most comprehensive opportunity to learn about the SCU student experience.

LEAD-Leadership Excellence and Academic Development-supports first generation college students and students of color. At Summer Orientation, students and families are invited to attend a special reception with faculty, staff, and students who will serve as resources throughout your time at SCU. To learn more about this and other LEAD Scholars programs and activities, please visit www.scu.edu/advising/lead.

Approximately 70 first-year students are invited to participate in the University Honors Program. Invitations are sent to select admitted students on a rolling basis, from January through April. Students must accept their invitations by May 1. “Admission with Distinction” status does not signify admission to the University Honors Program. Students in the University Honors Program must attend the fifth or sixth orientation session. Applications for the program are considered on a space-available basis. To learn more about the University Honors Program, visit www.scu.edu/honors.