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Parent and Family Orientation

About Parent and Family Orientation

Transitioning into college is one of the most exciting times of your student’s life.

It can be both a thrilling and a challenging experience for parents or guardians.

Whether you are a parent or guardian of a first year or transfer student, the Parent and Family Orientation is designed to help you become familiar with DU, answer your questions about University resources and opportunities, and find out what to expect the first year. You will learn about academic policies and requirements, study abroad opportunities, campus safety, health and counseling services, financial aid, and much more!

Following Residence Hall Move-in on Sunday, September 2nd, we invite all parents and family members of incoming students to stay for Parent and Family Orientation, Monday, September 3rd -Tuesday, September 4th. The cost is $25 per person, which helps offset costs of meals and materials (children under 10 do not have to register).The entire Parent and Family Orientation schedule is linked on the left of this page.

Programs during Orientation will take place in various locations across campus. If you need accommodations for Parent and Family Orientation due to a disability, please contact University Disability Services (DSP) at 303.871.2372 to discuss arrangements.

10 Steps to Parent and Family Orientation

Register! Parent and Family Orientation registration will open June 2013!
Make travel arrangements. Departure may be planned after 6:00pm Tuesday evening.
Book a hotel. DU does not provide housing for families. For an area hotel and ground transportation guide, please click here.
Parking. For move-in parking instructions click here. For Orientation parking, be sure to ONLY park in lots C, 103, H1, H2, N and E, as permits are NOT required in these lots from Sept 2-4. You MUST have a permit if parking in lots outside of those listed, otherwise tickets will be given. Beginning Wed, Sept 5, parking permits will be required in ALL lots.
Check in to Parent and Family Orientation on Monday, September 3rd in the Ritchie Center.
Review the orientation schedule. Aside from the regular large group events, there are many other opportunities for you to learn about all that DU has to offer, for both students and their families. Check out the many information sessions and all-campus lectures that are being offered!
Visit the Resource Fair. This is a great opportunity for both students and parents! Participants include the Parents Association, Greek Life, Parking Services, many student organizations, local banks, hotels and much more!
Join other parents and families for lunch on Tuesday. Share your experiences and expectations with other families from your region.
Hear from special guest Helen E. Johnson on Tuesday, September 4th. The co-author of Don’t Tell Me What to do, Just Send Money, The Essential Parenting Guide to the College Years, will share the updated ideas and parenting strategies.
Take a breath and enjoy the experience.