Our orientation programs are designed to prepare our incoming Falcons to get off to a great start in their time at Fitchburg State. These activities will familiarize you with what to expect from your on-campus experiences, from the classroom to the campus center, whether you're living in one of our residence halls or commuting. You will also learn about the array of support services we have created to help you achieve all of your goals at the university.
We are looking forward to your arrival! These two-day sessions are designed to allow you to meet your peers, select your Fall course schedule, and engage with members and resources of our campus community.
Summer Orientation
Students will sign up through their admissions portal after they have paid their deposit.
Session One: Monday, June 9 - Tuesday, June 10, 2025
Session Two: Thursday, June 12 - Friday, June 13, 2025
Session Three: Monday, June 16 - Tuesday, June 17, 2025
Incoming Transfer Student Orientation
Thursday, August 7, 2025
The Falcon Experience | Fall Orientation
Monday, September 1 (Labor Day) - Wednesday, September 3, 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Anyone from the Office of Student Development Staff
Yes. Orientation is an integral part of your success as a student at Fitchburg State University whether you are a resident or a commuter. We ask that you make arrangements so that you can attend both summer and fall orientation dates. You will be learning important information about the University and meeting other new students.
- Pillow
- Twin XL sheets and a blanket or sleeping bag
- Fan (it can get warm)
- Toothbrush and toiletries
- Pen and notebook - optional to take notes
- Shower towel and hand towel
The orientation staff is here to help anyone and everyone. If you're a very outgoing person or very shy, we're here to assist in making the students comfortable with their new surroundings. Just ask us and we will be glad to make the appropriate accommodations.
According to the University bookstore, the average cost of books for one class can be upwards of $75-$100. Some classes have higher costs than others. Depending on the course load and major, books for a semester can average from $300 to $600. Students receive their schedules at summer orientation and advising sessions, and can view textbook information online at the University bookstore website.
If you are having difficulties with setting up your computer, you can call the IT Help Desk at ext. 4500 from any on-campus phone or off campus at 978.665.4500.
It is indeed safe on campus. We operate our own police force with state trained officers to serve and protect the students and members of the University community. If a student or member of the University community has the desire to go off campus, we suggest using a form of the buddy system to reinforce strength in numbers and promote safety. There is also a nightly Student Security Escort Service so students do not have to walk alone on or around campus. Call boxes directly connected to the University Police are located all throughout campus. Security cameras are in the process of being installed as well. For more information, you can visit University Police.
In case of an emergency, there is a trained first response Student Rescue Squad on call 24 hours a day during the school year. If there is an emergency, the rescue squad is dispatched by Campus Police. You can reach them by calling ext. 3111 or 978.665.3111. If the issue is not an emergency, students may visit Community Health Connections, with whom we have partnered to provide comprehensive health care services.
Fitchburg State also distributes emergency messages by phone and email through the Fitchburg State Alert system in regards to the following:
- Campus and regional emergencies
- Snow closures/delays
- Campus opening and closing activities
We encourage you to try and find a roommate these two days. However, if you have questions, refer to the Housing and Residential Services page for more information.
No, having a car on campus is not necessary. Fitchburg State works with MART (the regional bus system) to provide free transportation throughout Fitchburg and the surrounding towns with your OneCard. The MBTA commuter rail station is at the end of North Street, less than a half mile from campus.
At Fitchburg State, there are many ways to get involved in our campus community. These vary from having an on-campus job, joining one of our 55+ clubs/organizations, or being a member of our Division III athletic programs. There are also several traditional events that are hosted throughout the year, including our Rock the Block, Homecoming, and Cultural Heritage Month programming.
Even if you plan to commute, orientation is vital to your success at Fitchburg State University. There will be entertainment as well as informal sessions with your orientation leaders throughout the day and evening that you won't want to miss!
While commuter students will stay overnight during summer orientation, you will not be staying overnight during fall orientation.
Only authorized participants with orientation and the specific session are allowed to be in the campus residence halls. All unauthorized guests will be asked to leave. The overnight guest policies will be in effect after orientation concludes.
Orientation Staff Assistants
Orientation leaders are carefully selected from some of Fitchburg State University's best students. They are there to answer any question you may have and to aid you through the orientation process. The students range from sophomores to seniors. Some are new to the program this year, while others are returning for their second and third years. These students have gone through rigorous training since February and are excited to welcome you into the Fitchburg State University community.
Christopher Bjornson' 27
Samuel Monteiro '26
Criminal Justice
smontei5@student.fitchburgstate.edu
Justin Swaine '26
Interdisciplinary Studies
jswaine@student.fitchburgstate.edu
Winter Orientation
This is for transfer students, freshmen, and family and friends.
TBD
