Introduction to First-Year Family Orientation

The First-year Family Orientation experience for Summer 2025 is designed to provide important information that parents and family members want to know before their student arrives on campus in the Fall. The content has been developed to create meaningful connections and share ways that family members can support their students in making the most of their time as undergraduate students at Binghamton University.

What is the First-Year Family Orientation 2025 Experience?

The First-Year Family Orientation experience has several components:

• BUZZ Emails: Weekly emails loaded with resources and opportunities for family members to engage with campus.
• Orientation Session: An in-person, 2-day session where family members will hear about important campus resources, meet administrators, and begin making connections as part of the Bearcat Family.
• "Becoming a Bearcat" Podcast Series: A podcast series developed specifically for new students and their family members to supplement their Orientation Experience with more information and personal stories shared from current students.
• Officially join the Bearcat Family: The Parent and Family Programs Office is the go-to place for any information family members are looking for and if they would like to stay involved with Binghamton University.

Summer 2025 Orientation Dates

All newly admitted students who have paid their admissions deposit will receive an email to their Binghamton University email when the registration system is available, beginning in early May. The in-person, 2-day Orientation dates are offered throughout the months of June and July and are specific to the school to which they were admitted. The Family Orientation program runs concurrently to the Student Orientation program, therefore whichever session date the student selects will be the date of the Family Orientation session.

Session Dates

The following are the scheduled session dates for Summer 2025:

• June 25-26: Harpur College of Arts and Sciences, School of Management, and Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Sciences
• June 30-July 1: Harpur College of Arts and Sciences, School of Management, Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Decker College of Nursing and Health Sciences
• July 7-8: Harpur College of Arts and Sciences, School of Management, Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and College of Community and Public Affairs
• July 10-11: Harpur College of Arts and Sciences, School of Management, Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Decker College of Nursing and Health Sciences
• July 14-15: Harpur College of Arts and Sciences, School of Management, Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and College of Community and Public Affairs
• July 17-18: Harpur College of Arts and Sciences, School of Management, and Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Sciences
• July 21-22: Harpur College of Arts and Sciences, School of Management, and Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Sciences

Family Orientation Session Information

About Family Orientation

The Family Orientation program is designed to answer any questions family members may have as a new Binghamton Bearcat. The program includes presentations and activities over the course of two days, aiming to provide insight into how students can be successful at Binghamton University. Key topics covered include:

• Residential Life
• Campus Safety
• Health and Wellness
• Transportation
• Binghamton University Dining Services
• Financial Services
• Student Academic Success

Overnight Accommodations and Meals

Students will be provided with overnight accommodations on campus for the evening of Day 1, and all meals during the program will be covered. Guests, however, will need to make prior arrangements for their overnight accommodations at a local hotel and meals offsite. Lunch will be held on campus on Day 1 but is not complimentary. A Family Reception will be held in the early evening of Day 1 with hors d'oeuvres, but dinner will be on the family's own.

Family Orientation Program Cost

Orientation for students is included in the New Student Fee that is part of their tuition and fees for the first semester. However, there is a Family Orientation fee of $45 per person. Students are allowed to register and bring a maximum of two guests to their Orientation. Children under the age of 6 are free to attend but must be registered and are counted in the two-guest limit. It is noted that Family Orientation is not recommended for children and teens, as they may find the presentations boring.

Binghamton University

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Overview:

Binghamton University is a public research university located in Binghamton, New York. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant research environment, and diverse student body. The university is recognized as a top public institution in the Northeast, offering a broad, interdisciplinary education with an international perspective.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Academic Programs:

Binghamton University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines.

Vibrant Research Environment:

The university boasts a robust research program, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research alongside faculty experts.

International Perspective:

The university fosters a global outlook through its diverse student body and international partnerships.

Top Public University:

Binghamton University is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the Northeast, demonstrating its commitment to academic excellence.

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Academic Programs:

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Other: