Starting college is an exciting milestone! Whether you're enrolling in an online community college for the flexibility, affordability, or convenience, one of your first steps will be orientation.
But what does orientation look like for an online program? How should you prepare?
At Campus, an online alternative to community college, orientation is designed to set students up for success from day one. While every school has a different process, here’s what you can expect—and how to prepare.
Why Online Community College?
Online community colleges have become increasingly popular because they offer:
✅ Flexibility – Learn from anywhere on a schedule that fits your life.
✅ Accessibility – More students, including working professionals and parents, can pursue a degree.
✅ Cost-Effectiveness – Many online programs try to keep tuition manageable compared to traditional colleges.
At Campus, we combine the flexibility of online learning with live, face-to-face classes and one-on-one student support.
What Is College Orientation?
College orientation is your official introduction to your school. It helps you:
- Meet faculty, advisors, and fellow students
- Learn about student resources and policies
- Get familiar with your school’s academic expectations
- Set up the technology needed for your coursework
At traditional colleges, orientation often takes place over a few days on campus. However, at an online community college, orientation happens virtually and can include a mix of:
- Live sessions with faculty and student support teams
- Self-paced modules covering technology and policies
- Interactive activities to build a sense of community
At Campus, orientation is a multi-day experience, concluding with a mandatory convocation, where students hear from leadership, review key policies, and connect with their success coaches.
How to Prepare for Your Online College Orientation
1. Set Up Your Technology
Since orientation takes place online, you’ll need a reliable computer and internet connection.
🔹 Check your school’s digital learning platform – Make sure your device is compatible.
🔹 Set up school accounts – Activate your student email and access course materials.
🔹 Have headphones ready – For a better audio experience during live sessions.
💡 Campus students receive a laptop and Wi-Fi access if needed, ensuring they have the tools for success from day one.
2. Know Your Student Portal & Learning Platform
Your student portal is your hub for everything—course schedules, tuition payments, and academic records.
At Campus, students use Campuswire, an interactive platform that hosts live classes, discussions, and academic resources.
Before orientation:
✅ Log in and explore the portal.
✅ Watch intro tutorials (if available).
✅ Bookmark important resources like your school’s academic calendar.
3. Understand What Orientation Will Cover
Every school’s orientation is different, but expect to learn about:
- How to access student resources (like tutoring, career services, and financial aid)
- Course registration and academic expectations
- Online learning best practices
- School policies on attendance, participation, and technology requirements
At Campus, orientation includes a mix of live and self-paced sessions, covering these topics before concluding with a mandatory convocation event.
4. Participate in Live Orientation Events
Many online community colleges host live orientation sessions, which might include:
🔹 Welcome speeches from school leaders
🔹 Panels with faculty and advisors
🔹 Q&A sessions where students can ask questions
At Campus, all students must attend one live Convocation session, where they’ll:
- Hear a welcome from Chancellor Tade Oyerinde
- Get an overview of academic expectations from the VP of Academics
- Learn about student support services like career coaching and academic tutoring
- Participate in live polls and Q&A
💡 Tip: If your school offers multiple session times, RSVP early to get your preferred slot!
5. Complete Required Orientation Modules
Most schools include self-paced orientation modules that students must complete before starting classes.
At Campus, orientation includes:
✅ Campus Academy – Online modules covering technology setup, policies, and expectations.
✅ Success Coach Meetings – One-on-one support for academic and career planning.
✅ Optional social events – Student clubs and networking opportunities.
💡 If your school requires orientation completion before course registration, finish early so you can plan your class schedule with confidence.
6. Get to Know Your Support System
Whether you’re attending a community college online or another type of online program, knowing who to turn to for help is essential.
During orientation, take note of:
- Who your academic advisors or success coaches are
- How to contact tech support if you have login issues
- Where to find tutoring and study resources
At Campus, every student is assigned a personal success coach, ensuring they have guidance throughout their academic journey.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Orientation
✔ Start early. Log in ahead of time and complete any pre-orientation tasks.
✔ Take notes. Jot down important deadlines and contacts.
✔ Engage in discussions. If live sessions are offered, participate and ask questions.
✔ Connect with classmates. Join student-led events or virtual meetups.
💡 At Campus, students can participate in student-led clubs, virtual study groups, and community events—so take advantage of every opportunity to connect!
Final Thoughts
Orientation is your first step toward a successful college experience. By preparing ahead of time, you’ll feel confident and ready to start your courses.
At Campus, an online alternative to community college, we provide:
✅ Live, face-to-face classes taught by top-tier professors
✅ A structured orientation program with self-paced modules and live convocation
✅ One-on-one success coaching to keep you on track
💡 If you’re looking for an online college with real student support, explore Campus today!
