New Student Orientation

Supporting new undergraduate students and their families in the process of becoming successful, lifelong members of the Evergreen community.
New Greeners meet Speedy the Geoduck at the 2022 Orientation.

We strive to make each student feel welcomed and prepared to achieve academic success, personal growth, and meaningful connections. 

Evergreen's Orientation Program provides the opportunity to:

  • Understand academic expectations and introduce students to the Evergreen environment
  • Develop a sense of belonging within the Evergreen community
  • Introduce support services dedicated to successful student life 

Orientation Coordinator & Leader Job Opportunities

We are looking for registered students to help welcome new Greeners to Evergreen in Fall 2023! You will be helping new students get settled, make friends, find their classes, and figure out what their Evergreen experience will be. Coordinators and Leaders work with professional staff and each other to welcome new students, plan, and host events, and ensure programs run smoothly. 

Fall 2023 Optional Pre-Orientation Programs 

Pre-Orientation Programs are designed to jump-start your Evergreen education! You will get to move in early (if you're approved by housing), and build stronger relationships with faculty, staff, and fellow students.  

Invitation will be sent to your Evergreen student email and your personal email in May 2023. Check your junk inbox if you think that you are missing emails. 

Pre-Orientation Programs Dates: September 15-19, 2023

  • Build trusting relationships and support networks with mentors and fellow Greeners.
  • Participate in workshops with topics like multicultural scholarship, civic engagement, and critical thinking.
  • Reflect on the personal and social significance of your learning.
  • Move into housing earlier than the rest of campus (for students already approved for housing). Visit the Housing Website for more information.

New Fall Students

Check your Evergreen student and personal email in May 2023 for your Fall Orientation and Canvas invitations. Review your junk inbox if you think that you are missing emails.

For degree planning assistance, make an appointment with an Academic and Career Advisor for a virtual or in-person appointment.

Fall 2023 Orientation Dates: September 21-23

Fall 2023 Orientation Residential Move-in Date: September 20 

New Olympia Undergraduate Orientation

Evergreen requires all new (first-year, international, and transfer) undergraduate, degree-seeking students enrolling on the Olympia campus for the first time to attend the In-Person New Student Orientation. We'll introduce you to our unique approach to education and connect you to staff, faculty, and campus resources. Plan to participate fully in your required New Student Orientation. We are excited to see you soon!

New Student, Native Pathways Program Undergraduate Orientation

The Native Pathways Program is for students who are connected and involved within Native American or Indigenous communities and culture.

New Student, Tacoma Program Undergraduate Orientation 

Evergreen–Tacoma offers adult learners a rich, interdisciplinary curriculum that emphasizes the whole student and focuses on change-making and transformative leadership. 

New Student Handbook 

Whether you’re a new or returning student, the Evergreen New Student handbook will help you get the most out of your education with resources and tips for the journey to your degree.

Current Students
COVID Updates
Academic Calendar

Advising and Registration for New First-Year, First Time Students  

We are here to help you start your new educational journey and succeed.

Group of 20 students gathered outdoors in a circle with a faculty guide

Advising and Registration for Transfer Students  

We can help you understand your educational options, plan your academic path, and succeed as a learner.

Students attend a Dig Deep orientation session

Tips for New Greeners (First year-First Time and Transfer Students) 

These items will set you up for success in your first quarter at Evergreen and beyond!

Plan to complete these tasks before contacting an advisor.

  • This  New Student Checklist (PDF) can help you stay on track.
  • Review the undergraduate catalog to choose several offerings you are interested in.
  • Have the Course Registration Number (CRN) handy for the course you want to enroll in when your registration time opens.
  • Review the enrollment report to see if space is available during open registration.

Academic and Career Advising

Ways an Advisor can assist you

Help With Your Application and Admissions

About Financial Aid 

Evergreen—Tacoma student orientation

Tacoma students receive information directly from Evergreen—Tacoma.

Dr. Marcia Tate Arunga, Academic Dean
Phone: (253) 680-3000

Native Pathways Program

Native Pathways Program students receive information directly from the Native Pathways Program.

Dawn Barron, Director 
Phone: (360) 867-6286

International Student Orientation

International students receive information directly from International Programs and Services.

Brynn Smith, Assistant Director 
Phone: (360) 867-6421

Graduate Program Orientation 

For graduate program orientation details, please contact the director of the program:

Master in Teaching

Luis Apolaya Torres, Associate Director
Phone: (360) 867-6559

Master of Public Administration

Marcia Zitzelman, Assistant Director, Public & Nonprofit Administration and Public Policy
Phone: (360) 338-5771

Puanani Nihoa, Assistant Director, Tribal Governance and Tacoma Cohort
Phone: (360) 867-6202

Master of Environmental Studies

Averi Azar, Assistant Director
Phone: (360) 867-6225