Academic Orientation – Mentored Academic Pathway (MAP)
Academic Orientation – MAP is a required one-day comprehensive program that serves as a fun and engaging start to your Wheaton journey. Choose the date that best fits your schedule. Sessions will delve into content about academics, social life, and what to expect as the fall semester begins. In addition, your Peer Advisor will be available for questions, and you’ll get to know some of your new classmates.
Summer 2025 Dates
- Monday, June 23, 2025
- Tuesday, June 24, 2025
- Thursday, June 26, 2025 – Nursing majors, WheaGo students, and Transfer students
- Friday, June 27, 2025
Register for Academic Orientation!
We are excited to have you join our vibrant community as you embark on the next part of your academic journey. Whether you are a first-year or transfer student, this orientation program is designed to provide you with essential information, resources, and connections to support your success and help you thrive at Wheaton. During Academic Orientation – MAP, you will have the opportunity to meet your peers, engage with faculty and staff, and get to know the campus. Our goal is to make sure you feel supported and equipped to navigate your new college journey successfully.
Check-in will begin at 8:30 a.m., along with a continental breakfast. Students and their families are invited to attend a Welcome Program featuring faculty and senior leadership commencing at 9:30 a.m. in Weber Theater. During the day, families will engage with student support offices and enjoy various opportunities to connect with the campus community. The Student and Family Programs will wrap up by 4:00 p.m. on the same day.
Here is a brief overview of what you can expect on Academic Orientation – MAP:
- Orientation Sessions: You will participate in a series of informative sessions covering a range of topics, including academic expectations, campus resources, student support services, and extracurricular opportunities. These sessions will help you understand the tools and resources available to you, and answer any questions you may have.
- Campus Navigation: Get ready to explore our beautiful campus! Throughout orientation, you will have the chance to discover key locations on campus, such as academic buildings, the library, residence halls, dining facilities, and other important areas. You will gain a better sense of the campus layout and feel more comfortable navigating your new surroundings.
- Academic Advising: Academic success is a priority. During orientation, you will meet with academic advisors who will guide you in selecting courses, understanding degree requirements, and mapping out your academic path. They will be invaluable resources as you plan your schedule and explore your academic options.
- Social Activities: Building connections and fostering a sense of community is essential. Orientation will include various social activities, icebreaker sessions, and chances to interact with your peers. You will have the opportunity to make connections and form friendships that can last throughout your college years and beyond.
Family Orientation
Family Orientation takes place the same day as your Academic Orientation – MAP. You will receive a link to register yourself and up to two guests. During Orientation, you will work with advisors to map out your academic schedule and connect with other new students. Your family and friends will meet with Wheaton community members across campus to learn how they can support you throughout your college experience.
Online Learning Modules
As part of your Orientation, there are four online educational modules to complete prior to the start of your first semester. The focus of this content is to enhance your safety and well-being as you navigate the academic, social and personal challenges associated with college. Check your Wheaton email for more information about these learning modules.
Virtual Office Hours
Students and families can access campus resources in a virtual office hours setting. From 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM (ET) on the dates listed above, a series of student support offices will be available on Zoom to discuss questions and concerns, or just an opportunity to get to know the campus and its resources as students and their families prepare for the upcoming transition to college.
Please note that depending on the number of attendees, the offices may not be able to answer specific questions as they relate to the individual, but would be able to provide more general information and can schedule a time to follow up accordingly. Pre-registration for these virtual office hours is not required. We look forward to connecting with you online!
Check your email for the Zoom links or contact [email protected].
Virtual Campus Connections for Students
Date and time coming soon!
Join Virtual Campus Connections, a virtual Zoom session made for students by students! Meet your future classmates and talk to current Wheaton students about all things Wheaton! This is an opportunity for new students to socialize and ask questions with their peers in a casual environment. This event is hosted by the student Orientation Coordinators.
Students must register for this event. Please check your email for the registration link or contact [email protected].
Windows into Wheaton
Coaching your student through the transition
Zack Irish, Dean of Students
Ashley Noyes, Assistant Dean of Students
A highlight of Family Orientation, join the Dean of Students Office as they provide insight into the collaborative experience to coach your student to succeed in the college experience. The presentation includes information about what to anticipate with the student transition to college, highlighting common challenges and support structures, and how the role of the family will evolve during the transition.
Watch Coaching your student video
The Wheaton Curriculum and Owning Your Education
Karen McCormack, Interim Provost
As a leader in the design and implementation of the Compass Curriculum, Karen McCormack provides an overview of the curriculum, Honors and Scholars Pathways, and academic supports including Advising, Accessibility Services, and other resources to support a strong transition to college life and promotes academic achievement throughout their time at Wheaton. Watch the Wheaton Curriculum video