Welcome to Lake Forest College!
We are excited to welcome you to campus this fall! Mark your calendars to attend the 2024 New Student Orientation (NSO), the College's required orientation for all new students.
NSO is designed to help you meet other Foresters, discover campus resources, and give you just the right amount of information to help you navigate your transition into Lake Forest College with confidence.
Important Dates:
New Student Move-In
Saturday, August 17
Athletes and First Connection participants will receive separate arrival information.
New Student Orientation
Saturday, August 17 through Wednesday, August 21
New Student Orientation - Parent Programming
Saturday, August 17, and Sunday, August 18
The Orientation Schedule for Students Includes:
Programs to Help You Meet Fellow Foresters
- Playfair
- You'll meet all the members of the incoming class in a unique and fun way!
- Block Party
- South campus will come alive as we celebrate with music and outdoor activities. Enjoy some time with your fellow foresters as we welcome you to the block!
- Comedy Hypnosis Show
- Enjoy a fun-filled night with new friends over comedy, hypnotism and food!
- Beach Bash
- Enjoy an evening at the Beach with a BBQ dinner. Play beach volleyball, take a paddleboard out on the water, play lawn games, or just relax and enjoy music at Lake Michigan.
Programs to Help You Learn about Campus Resources!
- Forester 101 and Forester 102
- Your Orientation Leader will tell you about campus life, how to get involved, and resources to help you be successful inside and outside the classroom!
- Student Wellness
- The Health and Wellness Center will share how you can access their services, how to cope with adversity successfully, and how to make healthy choices in college.
- Career Pathways
- You will explore the five Career Pathways at Lake Forest College and learn about internship opportunitues.
You are Now a Forester!
- Matriculation Ceremony
- At this long-standing Forester tradition, President Baren will welcome you to the official start of the academic year! You are now officially a Forester!
- Matriculation Reception
- The College community will come together to celebrate your matriculation into the Lake Forest College community. Refreshments are served!
The Orientation Schedule for Parents and Family Members Includes:
Saturday
- Back to School Sidewalk Sale -Get room supplies & essentials.
- One Stop Shop - Take care of any last-minute details with the Business Office, Registrar, and Financial Aid.
- Forester Fest Picnic.
- Forester First in the Family Session (English & Spanish) - For parents of first-generation college students.
- Student Affairs Session - Meet the Student Affairs Senior Management Team and learn about how to help your students adjust to life at Lake Forest College.
- President’s Welcome Dinner- Join President Baren for our traditional Welcome Dinner.
- Parent Welcome Reception - The Parents Council invites parents and family members for a toast and desserts.
Sunday
- Breakfast with the Health and Wellness Center Staff -Learn about services provided by the Health and Wellness Center.
- Academic and Career Resources Session -Learn about the Lake Forest College curriculum, academic resources, and career services.
- Family Farewell Lunch - Enjoy lunch with your student before parting ways.
Please check back for schedule updates. For questions, please contact the Gates Center.