We are excited to welcome you to Wheaton as you begin this next chapter of your academic journey. Whether you are joining us as a first-year or transfer student, Summer Orientation will provide you with the information, resources and connections needed to start strong.
Summer Orientation programming includes the following:
- Academic Orientation – Mentored Academic Pathway (required): Thursday, June 18, 2026
- Family Orientation (optional): Thursday, June 18, 2026
- Summer Orientation Webinars (optional): multiple dates
- Online Learning Modules (required): to be completed at your convenience
Academic Orientation – Mentored Academic Pathway (MAP)
Academic Orientation- Mentored Academic Pathway (MAP) is a required, one-day program, designed to provide a comprehensive and engaging introduction to Wheaton. You will connect with faculty, staff and peers while exploring academics, campus resources, and what to expect as you begin the fall semester. Peer advisors will also be available throughout the day to answer questions and help guide your experience.
Academic Orientation – MAP will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2026. We offer two identical sessions so you can choose the option that best fits your schedule. The deadline to register is June 5, 2026.
Academic Orientation–MAP I: Morning Session
Thursday, June 18, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. until 12:45 p.m., lunch will follow
Register for the morning session
Academic Orientation–MAP II: Afternoon Session
Thursday, June 18, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. until 6:15 p.m., dinner will follow
Register for the afternoon session
Please let us know if you are unable to attend:
I am unable to attend Academic Orientation .
Morning Session Schedule
8:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m., followed by lunch
Note: Building number corresponds to the Campus Map (.PDF) .
8:00–8:30 a.m. | Check-In and Continental Breakfast
Watson Fine Arts, Weber Theater (26)
Students and families are invited to check in and enjoy a continental breakfast. Staff will be available to guide you from Lot 2 to the check-in area.
8:30–9:00 a.m. | Whea-TALKS
Watson Fine Arts, Weber Theater (26)
We do orientation a little differently here. Whea-TALKS are fast, bold presentations from Wheaton faculty and staff, and your first real taste of what Wheaton is all about.
9:15 –10:25 a.m. | Concurrent Academic Sessions
Diana Davis Spencer ’65 Discovery Center (23)
Students will rotate through these sessions in smaller groups.
- First-Year Experience (FYE) – Meet the Compass Curriculum. This interactive session helps you start thinking about your academic path.
- Meet the faculty behind the majors. Ask questions, make connections, and start imagining what’s possible.
10:35 a.m.–12:45 p.m. | Concurrent Academic Sessions
Diana Davis Spencer ’65 Discovery Center (23)
Students will rotate through these sessions in smaller groups.
- Life and Career Design Institute – Learn about design thinking and a new approach to shaping your college experience in preparation for life after Wheaton.
- Course Registration – Meet with faculty and advisors to select your fall semester courses.
11:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m. | WheaGo Student Orientation
Diana Davis Spencer ’65 Discovery Center (23), Room 1349
Students participating in WheaGo Global for Fall 2026 will meet with the Global Education team to prepare for their semester abroad.
1:00-2:00 p.m. | Lunch and Resource Fair
Beard Fieldhouse, Haas Athletic Center (10)
Reconnect with your family for a BBQ-style lunch and explore campus resources before departing for the day.
1:00 – 2:00 p.m. │ WheaGo Luncheon
Athletics Classroom, Haas Athletic Center (10)
WheaGo Global students and their families are invited to pick up lunch in Beard Fieldhouse and gather as a group to connect with the Global Education team in preparation for their semester abroad.
Afternoon Session Schedule
2:00 p.m. – 6:15 p.m., followed by dinner
Note: Building number corresponds to the Campus Map (.PDF) .
1:30–2:00 p.m. | Check-In and Light Refreshments
Watson Fine Arts, Weber Theater (26)
Students and families are invited to check in and enjoy light refreshments. Staff will be available to guide you from Lot 2 to the check-in area.
2:00–2:30 p.m. | Whea-TALKS
Watson Fine Arts, Weber Theater (26)
We do orientation a little differently here. Whea-TALKS are fast, bold presentations from Wheaton faculty and staff, and your first real taste of what Wheaton is all about.
2:45 – 3:55 p.m. | Concurrent Academic Sessions
Diana Davis Spencer ’65 Discovery Center (23)
Students will rotate through these sessions in smaller groups.
- First-Year Experience (FYE) – Meet the Compass Curriculum. This interactive session helps you start thinking about your academic path.
- Meet the faculty behind the majors. Ask questions, make connections, and start imagining what’s possible.
4:05 – 6:15 p.m. | Concurrent Academic Sessions
Diana Davis Spencer ’65 Discovery Center (23)
Students will rotate through these sessions in smaller groups.
- Life and Career Design Institute – Learn about design thinking and a new approach to shaping your college experience in preparation for life after Wheaton.
- Course Registration – Meet with faculty and advisors to select your fall semester courses.
6:30 – 7:30 p.m. │ Dinner and Resource Fair
Beard Field House, Haas Athletic Center (10)
Reconnect with your family for a BBQ-style dinner and explore campus resources before departing for the day.
Family Orientation
Family Orientation will also take place on June 18, 2026, the same day as your Academic Orientation – MAP. You will receive a link to register yourself and up to two guests. While you 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.
View Family Orientation Schedule
Summer Orientation Webinars
Throughout the summer, our campus leaders will host live sessions covering everything from academic advising and financial planning to residential life and student wellness. While not required, we highly encourage you to join us online. Get your questions answered in real-time, meet the staff who will support you, and prepare for your arrival this fall.
Online Learning Modules
As part of your Orientation, there are five 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.
