New Student Orientation (NSO)
We’re so excited to meet you! During the week before classes start in the fall, Lewis & Clark’s New Student Orientation (NSO) helps our incoming first-year and transfer students get acquainted with campus, student life, resources, and peers.
NSO 2026 will be from Thursday, August 27 through Sunday, August 30.
Welcome to Your First Day at L&C
The excitement has been building all summer, and it is finally time for you to start the orientation process! You may have gone on a New Student Trip or another pre-orientation program, or you may be stepping on to campus for the first time. No matter what stage you’re at, our orientation team is ready to make these few days a success for you.
Grace Marchant BA ’25More about GraceBeing a member of New Student Orientation is one of my fondest memories on campus. It is rewarding to see new students explore what interests them on campus and form connections with each other during the first few weeks of school.
Feya Dawkins BA ’25More about FeyaI remember being so nervous, I didn’t even want to go. But when I did, everyone was so nice and welcoming, and I made friends so fast. It is hard not to get along with students at Lewis & Clark.
Peter Smith BA ’24More about PeterThe thing I remember most about my NSO was going stargazing. It was the first time I really felt like I was in a community on campus!
It’s Time to Start Your Journey
The day has finally arrived; you’re on campus! Lewis & Clark’s engaged community is ready to welcome you with open arms. Your first day on campus is a big one: You’ll get your room key, meet your roommate(s), and start getting to know your new home. Don’t worry, there is plenty of fun to go around—our Parent and Family Preview event is a great opportunity for your biggest supporters to get to know L&C, too!
Move Into Your Residence Hall
Time to move in! For most students, moving into a residence hall is the first step during orientation. New Student Peer Mentors and Campus Living staff members will help you find your way around campus and answer all your questions.
Take Care of Financial Aid
Need to check in about financial aid? No problem! Our stellar team at the Office of Financial Aid are a short walk from our residence halls in Fowler Student Center, ready to help.
Belonging at L&C
From annual events like stargazing on campus or our silent disco to more casual chats during lunch about the excitement of starting college, there are lots of opportunities to start finding a sense of home at L&C during orientation.
Meet Your First-Year Group
Your First-Year Group is led by a New Student Peer Mentor who will guide you through New Student Orientation. But don’t worry, they don’t disappear after that first week. Your peer mentor stays connected with their group all year to ensure the best first-year experience possible for our new students.
All About Academics
Time to get studious! With language placement exams, department open houses, and more, there is no shortage of learning opportunities this week. The Lewis & Clark New Student Orientation schedule is packed full of events just for you.
Academic Fair
At the academic fair, all of our academic departments, programs, and support services are represented. Here, you can check out areas of study, discover campus resources, and meet the faculty members that you will learn from during your time at L&C.
Meet Your Advisor
Set yourself up for success and get to know your college advisor. They will guide you through your academic journey and help keep you on track for graduation.
Your Health and Safety at L&C
Staying safe and healthy on and off campus is essential. We’ll set you up for success with the right resources to thrive at L&C through discussions around academic, mental, physical, emotional, environmental, and spiritual wellness.
Campus Safety
Our Campus Safety officers are on call 24/7, ready to respond to any issues our community members encounter.
Health and Wellness on Campus
We believe that holistic wellness—mind, body, and soul—is imperative to student success.
NSO Traditions
Our annual class photo on the Glade is a trademark starting symbol for your time at L&C!
Giving Back to the Community
NSO Service Day is an annual Lewis & Clark tradition organized by NSO and the Center for Social Change and Community Engagement, designed to connect incoming undergraduates with Portlanders working for change.
Service Day
Our annual NSO Service Day connects our students to our greater Portland community through immersive volunteer work. In collaboration with our partner organizations, you will start to make an impact even before your first day of classes.
Dinner and Evening Events
After a full day of service and getting to know your peers, fill your cup (literally!) in our dining hall with your orientation group. Our student leaders host events—like stargazing on the lawn, silent disco, and more—in the evenings to promote engagement and relaxation for our new students.
After NSO, It’s Your First Day of Classes
Classes have begun, and the fun is just beginning! Our annual activities fair by Student Engagement and other campus meet and greets are still happening. Now’s the time to try new things; consider branching out and joining a club or two! All our staff, faculty, and student leaders are here to support you and help you find your sense of belonging.