Your first year starts here!

New student orientation for the Denison Class of 2031 will take place in August 2027. Specific dates and information coming soon!

Through our new student orientation, you will learn to navigate campus, find a sense of belonging, adjust to the rigor of a liberal arts education, and begin to develop a sense of purpose as you acclimate to life at Denison with support from faculty, staff, and fellow students.

Participation in new student orientation is required for all incoming first-year students.

First-year student have their photo taken in front of a giant light-up Denison sign.
First-year staff cheer on new students as they arrive for move-in day.
A young man in a red shirt carries a large rolled-up floor rug during campus move-in.
A group of people gather around tables with informational brochures and papers, engaging in conversation at a busy event focused on campus programs and building student connections.
A large group of people stands in lines on a grassy quad between brick dorm buildings, attending campus programs under a white tent and red canopies. Trees provide shade overhead.
A group of young people outdoors, likely part of campus programs, participate in a race by bouncing on large yellow exercise balls as others watch and cheer on the grassy field.
Denison first-year students
First-year students dancing
Two people play ping-pong at night on a glowing, brightly colored ping pong table.
A group of people stands together at night. One person in the center, wearing glasses, a T-shirt, and glow bracelets, is talking to someone with cat ear headbands at a lively campus program with colorful lights in the background.
A stack of orientation packets feature a cover design that includes a photo of Swasey Chapel against a blue sky and the words "Your 1st Year Starts Here"
A person in a large red bird mascot costume hugs a smiling woman outdoors, surrounded by people wearing blue and red shirts, with red and white balloons—a joyful scene that highlights how campus programs help build connections at Denison.
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Orientation

Orientation at Denison University offers a comprehensive introduction to campus life, including resource fairs, informative sessions, and opportunities for students and families to engage with the community. Highlights include move-in assistance, an induction ceremony for the Class of 2031, and various themed orientation activities to help students prepare for their new home on The Hill. 

International Students

The Center for Global Programs will help you settle into your residence hall, open a bank account, apply for cell phone services, explore campus, and learn about the Granville and Columbus communities before you take part in new student orientation with your classmates.

International Student Portal

Connect to Columbus

All first-year students will spend part of orientation exploring Columbus! Enjoy a day away from campus with a smaller group of peers, faculty, and staff that share your interests and passions. Choose from a variety of options, including key Columbus landmarks and topics such as arts, community service, hiking, sports, and more.

Student Athletes

Members of the Cross Country, Field Hockey, Football, Soccer, and Volleyball teams will move onto campus early. These students will join orientation with their full class cohort.

Move-in dates to be announced.

Athletes will be contacted by their coaches with early move-in details.

If you have any questions, email firstyear@denison.edu or call 740-587-6224.