Have you ever seen a 500 foot banana split? How about a concrete canoe that actually floats? Eaten dinner with the University President? You will, and you’ll get to see, feel, even taste, everything about Michigan Tech, before classes even start.
Orientation at Michigan Tech is a week long program to introduce you to the campus, academic requirements, and college life. You’ll be placed in a team with other students in your major led by an Orientation Team Leader (OTL) who is a successful upperclassman. The whole week is yours…adjust to your new environment, learn about many of the services and opportunities here, and be officially introduced to your department by going on a department tour, exploring your computer lab, and meeting some faculty.
You’ll be amazed by Craig Karges and his fantastic display of illusion, the paranormal and unbelievable phenomena using total audience participation!
This is also a time to experience college-level reading, inquiry, and discussion through the Summer Reading Program. In 2007, students read They Poured Fire on Us From the Sky: The True Story of Three Lost Boys from Sudan. Orientation teams met with a member of the faculty or staff to discuss the book as a group. Then, one of the authors, Benjamin Ajak, spoke about the work, its themes, and questions it raises.
There are also academic advising meetings where you’ll find out important information from your advisor about your major's requirements and make sure that your fall schedule is ready for the first day of class.
Orientation is a great time to experience the Outdoor Adventure Program! Trips include an overnight camping trip to Copper Harbor, a canoeing trip in the Sylvania Wilderness Area, a hiking trip through the Porcupine Mountains, Geological Excursions throughout the Keweenaw, a rock climbing excursion and a sailing adventure on the Portage Canal. Community Service opportunities are also available, including working on a Habitat for Humanity project.
And this is all before classes even start!
