Virtual Pre-Orientation

Before you arrive on campus, Orientation will offer a variety of virtual sessions throughout the summer highlighting the services, resources, and support systems available across the college. All sessions are optional but strongly encouraged to help students gain a full understanding of the opportunities and services available to them. Students should only attend one session within each category, and parents/guests are encouraged to participate alongside their student to learn more about the resources that support student success.

Please register for any of the sessions listed below. Registering allows us to accurately track participation and ensure that all students receive important orientation communications, updates, and reminders leading up to their transition to Purchase College.

Student Panel 

Want to know what life at Purchase is really like? Join us for a virtual panel featuring current Purchase students who have been where you are now! Get firsthand advice, hear about their experiences, and learn tips for making the most of your college journey.

Topics will include:

• Getting involved on campus
• Finding support and resources
• Making friends and building connections
• Advice for a successful first year

Bring your questions and get answers from students who know what it's like to start at Purchase. We look forward to seeing you there!

Residence Life

Student Life

College is about more than classes; it's about discovering new interests, meeting new people, and creating unforgettable experiences. Join the Office of Student Life for a virtual pre-orientation session and learn how to make the most of your time at Purchase.

We'll cover:

• Clubs and organizations
• Campus events and traditions
• Leadership and involvement opportunities
• Student resources and support services
• Ways to connect with the Purchase community from day one

Athletics 

Whether you're a seasoned athlete, a casual competitor, or just looking for a fun way to stay active and meet new people, there's something for everyone at Purchase! Incoming students and their families are invited to join our Department of Athletics for a virtual pre-orientation panel and Q&A.

Learn about:

• Division III Athletics
• Club Sports
• Intramural Leagues
• Esports Opportunities
• Fitness and Recreation Resources
• Ways to get involved and build community through sports

This is a great opportunity to learn how you can stay active, compete, make friends, and become part of the Purchase community. Bring your questions and hear directly from the staff who help make these opportunities possible.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Student Financial Services 

Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but we're here to help. Incoming students and their families are invited to join our Student Financial Services team for a virtual information session and Q&A. Learn more about billing, payment options, financial aid processes, important deadlines, and the resources available to support you throughout your time at Purchase.

Bring your questions and get the information you need to feel confident and prepared for the semester ahead.

Please note: Our staff can answer general questions and provide information about policies and processes but cannot discuss specific student accounts or individual financial circumstances during this session.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Counseling & Health Services

Starting college comes with a lot of questions, and knowing where to turn for support can make all the difference. Incoming students and their families are invited to join the Office of Health Services and the Office of Counseling and Behavioral Services for a virtual pre-orientation information session and Q&A.

Learn about:

• Health and medical services available on campus
• Counseling and mental health resources
• Wellness programs and support services
• How to access care and schedule appointments

This is a great opportunity to learn about the many ways Purchase supports student well-being and success. Bring your questions and get prepared for a healthy and successful start to your college experience.

Please note: Our staff can answer general questions and provide information about available services and processes, but cannot discuss individual health information, medical records, or personal circumstances during this session.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Office of Student Disability Services

We’re here to help you start your college journey with confidence. Incoming students and their families are invited to join the Office of Disability Resources for a virtual pre-orientation information session and Q&A.

This session is designed to help you better understand the support available at Purchase and how we work to ensure access for all students. We’ll cover topics such as:

• Disability support services and available resources
• The accommodations process and how to get started
• Documentation and general guidance
• How students can access support throughout their time on campus
• Tips for a smooth transition to college life

Please note: Our staff can answer general questions and provide information about processes and policies but cannot discuss individual student accommodations or personal cases during this session.

Freshmen Advising

Getting ready for your first semester can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone! Incoming freshmen and their families are invited to join the Office of Advising for a virtual pre-orientation information session and Q&A.

This session will help you feel confident and prepared as you begin your academic journey at Purchase. We’ll talk about:

• How academic advising works at Purchase
• Choosing and planning your first-semester courses
• Understanding degree requirements and academic pathways
• How advisors support you throughout your college experience

This is your chance to get helpful guidance straight from the people who will support your academic success from day one. Bring your questions and get ready to start your Purchase experience on the right track!

We look forward to seeing you there!

Transfer Advising

Starting at a new school is an exciting step and we’re here to help make your transition as smooth as possible! Incoming transfer students and their families are invited to join the Office of Advising for a virtual pre-orientation information session and Q&A.

This session is designed specifically for transfer students and will cover:

• How credits transfer and apply toward your degree
• Academic advising and how to connect with your advisor
• Understanding degree requirements and staying on track for graduation
• Tips for a successful transition into the Purchase community

This is a great opportunity to get the information you need to feel confident and prepared. Bring your questions and connect with the team who will support you every step of the way.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Dinner with the President 

Join Purchase College President Michael E. Steiper, PhD, for a Virtual Dinner and Conversation

Curious about what makes Purchase College such a unique place to learn, create, and grow? Join President Michael E. Steiper, PhD, for a casual virtual conversation with admitted students and their families.

This relaxed session is a chance to hear directly from the College's president, learn more about Purchase's distinctive mix of conservatory and liberal arts programs, and explore the opportunities that await you as a member of our community.

Bring your questions, meet fellow future Panthers, and join the conversation about academics, campus life, and what it means to Think Wide Open at Purchase.

We can't wait to connect with you and welcome you to the Purchase community!

Dinner with the Vice President of Student Affairs

 Join the Vice President of Student Affairs, Patty Bice for a relaxed virtual dinner and conversation designed for admitted students and their families.

This informal session is a great opportunity to hear more about the student experience, explore campus resources, and learn about the many ways to get involved and build community at Purchase.

Bring your questions and enjoy a casual, engaging conversation with campus leadership as you get ready to begin your journey. From student life to support services and everything in between, this is your chance to get a closer look at what awaits you.

We look forward to connecting with you!

Dinner with the Provost

What is a Provost?  The Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Earnest Lamb, is the senior leader who oversees all things academic, including programs, faculty, academic policies, and student academic success.

Join the Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs for a relaxed virtual dinner and conversation designed for admitted students and their families. This informal session is a great opportunity to learn more about academic life at Purchase, explore academic success resources, and discover opportunities both inside and outside the classroom.

Bring your questions and enjoy a casual, engaging conversation with campus leadership as you prepare for your Purchase journey. This is your chance to get a closer look at what supports your learning and success from day one.

We look forward to connecting with you!