UCCS Pre-Orientation Experience

UCCS Pre-Orientation Experience

Feeling nervous about starting college? Not sure what to expect? Wondering how to find support, make friends, and feel at home at UCCS?

We know that transitioning to college can feel overwhelming—new campus, new responsibilities, and a whole lot of questions. What the heck is a registrar? Where do I go if I am struggling in classes? How do I make friends? What if I get lost? How do I talk to my professors? I'm nervous about being the first one in my family to go to college... That’s why we created the UCCS Pre-Orientation Experience, a five-day program designed to help you start your college journey with confidence. 

The UCCS Pre-Orientation Experience is free! We will cover you moving onto campus early and all of your meals from August 13th - August 19th. No events during the program will cost you any money. The GPS Pre-Term course will be a part of your regular tuition and if you choose to enroll, the Financial Literacy course will also be a part of your tuition.

What is the UCCS Pre-Orientation Experience?

This interactive program gives you a head start on your first semester by helping you:
Get comfortable on campus before everyone else arrives 
Meet fellow students and start building your community
Learn the ins and outs of college life—from financial aid to academic success strategies
Gain essential skills to advocate for yourself and navigate challenges
Participate in fun social events and mixers with students, staff, and faculty

Through workshops, mentorship, and fun activities, you'll have the chance to connect with faculty, staff, and student leaders who are here to support you.

What's Included?

📅 August 13th – 17th

  • Insider Access to Campus Resources → Get personalized guidance on financial aid, academic advising, and student wellness.
  • Find Your People → Build friendships with students and mentors before the semester starts.
  • Mentorship & Support → Connect with student mentors who have been where you are.
  • Essential College Skills → Learn how to self-advocate, manage time, and set yourself up for success.
  • Interactive & Fun Activities → Engage in team-building events, hands-on workshops, and a community engagement project.
  • Bonus: Early Move-In!

Academic Advantage: GPS & Personal Financial Planning

After the five-day program, students will jumpstart their first semester by enrolling in a pre-term GPS course, allowing them to complete their required gateway course in just one week. That's right, they earn 3 credit hours in one week and free up time for themselves in the fall semester. 

What is GPS? The Gateway Program Seminar (GPS) is a required first-year course that helps students develop critical thinking, academic skills, and a strong foundation for college success. Learn more: GPS at UCCS

In the fall, students will also have early access to reserved seats in a Financial Literacy course (Personal Financial Planning - 3 credit hours) before it opens to the rest of campus. This course helps students understand budgeting, credit, scholarships, and financial planning—key skills for thriving in college and beyond.

Who Should Apply?

This program is designed for new UCCS students starting in Fall 2025 who will be living on campus. If you’re looking for:

  • Extra support in navigating college life
  • A smooth transition into your first semester
  • A chance to connect with mentors, faculty, and campus resources early

Then this experience is for you!

Program Requirements

To participate, students must:

  • Commit to attending all five days of the program
  • Enroll in and complete the GPS pre-term course
  • Submit a FAFSA or CASFA application and meet with a financial aid counselor and academic advisor (we’ll help you through this process!)

What Do You Get?

Beyond confidence and connections, students who complete the UCCS Pre-Orientation Experience will also receive:
Invitation to the First2Go Student Advisory Committee
Exclusive access to a career prep day (mock interviews, resume/cover letter review)
1:1 support from financial aid and academic advising 
Priority consideration for campus jobs

Ready to start your college journey on the right foot? Apply today!

Pre-Orientation Experience