What’s the difference between a Griffin Day and New Student Orientation?
Both events are designed to help you transition to CHC, but have different purposes. Your Griffin Day is a one day summer experience in which you will take a math test, learn about academic expectations, take a foreign language assessment, get your ID picture taken and meet some of your new classmates. New Student Orientation is a three day orientation experience that occurs right before classes begin. During New Student Orientation you will have the opportunity to get to know your peers, learn about diversity, academics & healthy living, as well learn about other campus resources that will help you succeed. There are also a lot of fun activities including karaoke, Coldstone ice cream, and much more.
As a new student, are there forms I need to complete?
Yes! If you haven’t already, you should visit the New Students tab (available in mid-May) on my.chc.edu. There you will find all of the important forms and documents you will need to complete in order to make a successful transition to CHC.
Can parents/families attend Griffin Days? New Student Orientation?
Parents/families are encouraged to attend your student’s Griffin Day. There is a specific family schedule designed to help answer a range of questions.
Families are invited to attend the beginning of New Student Orientation including Move-In, Convocation, and the Farewell BBQ. After the BBQ, families are asked to say their goodbyes.
Is New Student Orientation mandatory?
Research shows that students who attend orientation prior to their first semester are more successful and more engaged in their college experience. Orientation is a great way to learn about opportunities, make new friends, and truly become a part of the Griffin family. With that being said, all first-year students and transfers with fewer than 24 credits are required to attend. We strongly encourage everyone to attend as orientation helps to make the transition to CHC easier and also happens to be a lot of fun!
I am a commuter, should I attend New Student Orientation?
Yes! We strongly encourage all new commuter students to attend all orientation activities. There are some commuter specific activities that will help you learn more about commuter life at CHC including our Commuter Assistant program. Orientation can run late into the evening so please be sure to plan your transportation and work schedule around the activities.
What is Convocation?
Convocation, which occurs in August, is an annual celebration at which new students and faculty gather to celebrate the official opening of the academic year. The College’s convocation celebrates the Liberal Arts and Sciences and encourages students to consider their own scholarly journey at Chestnut Hill College. During the ceremony, students will learn the importance of the College’s Mission and develop a greater understanding of College traditions and mottos. Students wear black regalia as a symbol of their commitment to higher learning and as a preview of the regalia worn at the graduation ceremony.
I require accommodations for some or all of the orientation events. Who should I contact and when?
Accommodation requests and/or physical access needs related to a disability should be made at least one week prior to the event to Student Activities at orientation@chc.edu.
Additional Questions?
Contact Student Activities at activities@chc.edu.