FAMU New Student Orientation Attracts More than 3,500 Students and Parents

More than 3,500 prospective students and their parents participated in Florida A&M University’s (FAMU) new student orientation this summer.

During 11 orientation sessions that began on May 9 and ended on July 26, 3,665 students and guests attended. Of the attendees, 1,437 were first-year students, and 375 were transfer students.  There were six freshman orientation sessions and five transfer orientation sessions.

Stephen Nance, director of new student orientation, stressed the importance of making an excellent first impression. 

“Even though they come to orientation, it doesn’t mean they have to come back to FAMU, so we have to make that good first impression just like what people say that first impression is always a last impression,” said Nance, who has been working in student orientation for 20 years.

He said an additional 200 transfer students and about 40 freshmen are expected to attend orientation on campus this week.

New student orientation offered incoming students an immersive introduction to campus life, blending essential academic information with a vibrant, family-oriented experience. Activities were designed to provide resources for success, campus tours, insights into campus offerings, and acclimation to the university’s rich traditions.

The orientation theme, “The Royal Family,” emphasized FAMU’s commitment to treating each student and family like royalty. This approach underscored the importance of community, support, and belonging. The theme complemented FAMU’s family-oriented culture, reinforcing that every student is a cherished member of a supportive environment.

FAMU’s student orientation, lasting at least two days, is mandatory for all incoming students. Students were advised to dress for the summer weather in Tallahassee, stay hydrated, and bring comfortable sneakers.

The New Student Orientation Program includes interactive tours, social events, and informative sessions to ensure students are well-prepared for their academic journey. This experience lays a strong foundation for students to thrive academically and socially at FAMU.

Gabrielle Sinclair, a rising third-year psychology student and orientation leader, wanted to make incoming students feel the same way orientation students made her feel when she started her FAMU journey. 

“I like the impact my orientation leaders had on me, and even after orientation had passed, I still felt like I could go to them,” she said. “Orientation was deciding whether I would come to FAMU or not.”

Students began moving in on August 19 ahead of the first day of fall classes, August 26.