New Student Orientation

What is New Student Orientation (NSO)?

New Student Orientation is your next step to graduation! This event is an interactive experience for both students and their families. NSO is a half-day introduction into Gordon State College that is required for all new students. 

Learning Objectives

Objective 1: Campus Navigation & Resource Fluency

Students will be able to identify and connect with academic and support offices, identifying at least one staff member or resource in each area relevant to their success.

Objective 2: Cultural Integration & Belonging

Students will define what it means to be a "Gordon State Highlander" by engaging in community-building activities that connect their personal identities with campus clubs and faculty.

Objective 3: Academic & Digital Readiness

Students will demonstrate basic competency in campus technology (D2L, Duo Mobile, Email, etc.) and complete essential administrative requirements in real-time.

Objective 4: Career Advising and Graduation Mapping

Students will begin a journey towards graduation that connects their academic major to future career goals.

 

New Student Orientation Dates:

Spring 2027

Friday, November 13th @8AM - All Students

Friday, December 4th @8AM - All Students

Friday, January 8th @8AM - All Students

Summer 2027 and Fall 2027

Friday, April 30th @8AM - All Students

Thursday, May 20th @8AM - All students

Fall 2027

Thursday, June 3rd @8AM - New Freshmen

Thursday, June 17th @8AM - New Freshmen and New Student-Athletes 

Thursday, July 8th @8AM - New Freshmen and First-Generation Students (First-Generation Students are students who neither parent/guardian graduated with a bachelor's degree)

Thursday, July 8th @8AM - New Freshmen

Thursday, July 22nd @8AM - New Freshmen 

Thursday, July 29th @8AM - New Freshmen

Why do I need to attend New Student Orientation?

NSO connects you to your new Gordon State family by showcasing resources that will assist you in a successfull transition to campus. NSO also provides you with the opportunity to meet your new peers while also exploring your new academic program. 

How do I get started with New Student Orientation?

  1. Make sure you have been accepted to Gordon State!
  2. You will receive an email from gordy-highlander@gordonstate.edu  prompting you to register for NSO. Use the form to select the date you wish to attend NSO. Please save this email (gordy-highlander@gordonstate.edu) to your safe list in your email to avoid sending emails to your junk mail folder.
  3. You will receive a second email from Gordy Highlander with information asking you to complete the pre-orientation information.  Be sure to follow all steps as outlined!
  4. Check your email for follow-up information about NSO!

 

What steps do I need to take before I may attend NSO?

  1. Receive your Regular Admissions or Final Admission to Gordon State College!Not sure if you're admitted? Check your admissions status here!
  2. Submit final high school and/or college transcripts. Our Admissions Office must receive your final transcripts from your school before the start of the semester.
  3. Securely upload your Immunization Records and Verification of Lawful Presence using our portal.
  4. Set up your Gordon Account and successfully log into your BannerWeb and Gordon email accounts. Use this link to get started.

Complete the FAFSA!

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA) will be used to help you see how much financial aid you are eligible for at Gordon State.

Please complete the FAFSA as soon as possible so the funds will be in your account to help you pay for your classes. You will need Gordon's School Code: 001575.

Apply For Housing!

Living on Campus is the best way to get to know fellow students and to get involved. Apply early so you have the best chance of getting the room you want!