What should I bring and do at a community college summer orientation?

Bring a photo ID, your student ID number or admission email, and a way to access your college portal on your phone or laptop if allowed. Most community college orientations also go more smoothly if you bring a notebook, a charged device, and any forms the college specifically asked for, such as placement info, residency documents, immunization records, or financial aid paperwork. If you are a dual-enrollment or visiting student, bring anything that confirms your high school status and any required permission forms.

Before you go, check the orientation email carefully for whether it is in person or online, how long it lasts, parking instructions, and whether you need to register in advance. If course registration happens that day, have a rough list of classes you want, your placement results if applicable, and any AP, IB, or transfer credit information available.

During the day, expect a mix of practical information and logistics. Most orientations cover how to use the student portal, email, learning platform, advising, registration, campus resources, and policies like attendance or academic integrity. Some also include placement testing, meeting an advisor, campus tours, and getting your student ID card.

What you should do is ask very specific questions while you are there. For example: how to register as a high school student, whether summer students can use tutoring or the library, how to buy textbooks, and who to contact if your high school and college schedules overlap.