College of Arts & Sciences New Student Orientation
August 18-22, 2025
Welcome to Trinity! RSVP NOW for our five-day, mandatory orientation, CAS CARES: Community, Academic Excellence, Resource Navigation, Engagement, Support
During this important and exciting week of workshops, panels, tours, and social events, you’ll make new friends, discover the many resources that support you, and learn academic strategies for success in your first year at Trinity.
Jump to the schedule for:
Monday, August 18, 2025 (Suggested Attire: Cool and Comfortable Clothes, Gym Shoes)
Event Highlights:
Alumna Spotlight
Each day, a distinguished Trinity alumna will be featured in a 10-minute spotlight. She will share her personal journey and reflect on how Trinity shaped her path, offering inspiration and insight.
Trinity Amazing Race
Inspired by the hit television show, this campus-wide adventure will have you racing in small groups alongside peer advisors and teammates. You’ll tackle trivia questions and complete interactive group challenges as you navigate your way through the course, all while building community and school spirit.
Taking Care of You
Join the Health and Wellness Center as they share valuable information about the services they offer and guide you through practical self-care strategies for college life. This interactive session includes two hands-on activities designed to help you relax, recharge, and take better care of your mental and physical well-being.
Schedule
8:00–9:00 AM
Check in & Breakfast
Trinity Center
9:00–9:15 AM
Welcome Remarks -President Patricia McGuire, Provost Carlota Ocampo, Dean Sita Ramamurti
Trinity Center
9:15 – 9:25 AM
Alumna Spotlight – Dr. Rewa Burnham Trinity Class of ’05
Trinity Center
9:25–9:30 AM
Orientation Overview – Dr. Melissa Harris
Trinity Center
9:30–10:00 AM
Ice Breaker – Peer Advisors
Trinity Center
10:00–11:30 AM
Trinity Amazing Race – Mr. Steven Salas
Trinity Campus Grounds
11:30–12:30 PM
Lunch
Trinity Center
12:30–1:30 PM
“Taking Care of You” – Presented by the Trinity Health and Wellness Center
Trinity Center
1:30–2:00 PM
Small Groups & Myers-Briggs Super Strong Survey – Peer Advisors
Trinity Center
2:00–5:00 PM
“Taking Care of Business”: Advising, Registration, Billing
Payden Academic Center
Tuesday, August 19, 2025
Event Highlights:
Chat and Chew
During lunch, faculty members are invited to join students for an informal meet-and-greet session. Faculty will be introduced before lunch, giving students the opportunity to connect, ask questions, and engage in meaningful conversations over a meal.
Line Dancing Lessons
Get ready to move! The afternoon will feature a line dance lesson showcasing three popular dances. The session will be led by Michelle Koduah and supported by our enthusiastic peer advisors, promising a fun and energetic experience for all.
Schedule
8:00–8:50 AM
Check in
O’Connor Auditorium, Main Hall 1st floor
8:50 – 9:00 AM
Announcements and Overview – Dr. Melissa Harris
O’Connor Auditorium
9:00–9:10 AM
“Alumna Spotlight” – TBA
O’Connor Auditorium
9:10–9:30 AM
Morning Small Group Breakouts – Peer Advisors
O’Connor Auditorium
9:30–10:15 AM
Advising 101 – Ms. Roniesha Hardee and Center for Student Success
O’Connor Auditorium
10:30–11:00 AM
Disability Support Services – Dr. Sarah Young
O’Connor Auditorium
11:00–11:30 AM
Library Services & Research and Writing Center – Ms. Trisha Smith, Mr. Steven Salas, and Dr. Brianna Rae Johns
O’Connor Auditorium
11:30–11:45 AM
Tutoring Services – Dr. Kimberly LaBoone
O’Connor Auditorium
11:45–12:00 PM
Career Services – Ms. Soulyka Agana-Woodbine
O’Connor Auditorium
12:00–1:00 PM
Lunch – “Chat and Chew” with Faculty
Alumnae Hall
1:00–2:00 PM
Line Dancing Classes – Ms. Michelle Koduah & Peer Advisors
O’Connor Auditorium
2:00–2:30 PM
Small Groups & Exit Survey – Peer Advisors
O’Connor Auditorium
3:00–5:00 PM
“Taking Care of Business” – Advising and Financial Aid
Payden Academic Center
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Event Highlights:
CAS in Motion
An immersive event with simulated classes led by faculty from Math, CRS, and STEM, introducing you to your upcoming fall courses.
Chat and Chew
During lunch, cohort directors join you for an informal meet-and-greet session. Directors will be introduced before lunch, giving you the opportunity to connect, ask questions, and engage in meaningful conversations over a meal. (Dreamers, Conway Scholars, Honors Cohort)
Schedule
8:00–8:50 AM
Check in
O’Connor Auditorium, Main Hall 1st floor
8:50 – 9:00 AM
Announcements and Overview – Dr. Melissa Harris
O’Connor Auditorium
9:00–9:10 AM
“Alumna Spotlight” – TBA
O’Connor Auditorium
9:10 – 9:40 AM
Morning Small Group – Peer Advisors
O’Connor Auditorium
9:40 – 10:00 AM
CAS in Motion Session Overview – Dr. Melissa Harris
O’Connor Auditorium
10:00–10:50 AM
Session 1 – CRS/Math/STEM Faculty/Advising
Various Campus Locations
11:00–11:50 AM
Session 2 – CRS/Math/STEM Faculty/Advising
Various Campus Locations
12 :00 –12:50 PM
Lunch – “Chat and Chew for Cohorts”
Alumnae Hall
1:00–1:50 PM
Session 3 – CRS/Math/STEM Faculty/Advising
Various Campus Locations
2:00–2:50 PM
Session 4 – CRS/Math/STEM Faculty/Advising
Various Campus Locations
3:00 – 5:00 PM
“Taking Care of Business” – Advising & Financial Aid
Payden Academic Center
Thursday, August 21, 2025 (Suggested Attire: Trinity Colors, Purple and Gold)
Event Highlights:
Sister to Sister Connection
This engaging session will bring together multiple Trinity alumnae and new Trinity students to build meaningful connections. Through a panel discussion, small group conversations, and interactive activities, you’ll be inspired by the successes and experiences of Trinity graduates. You’ll forge lasting bonds and be empowered through mentorship and shared sisterhood.
Resource Carnival
Step right up to the most exciting event of the season! Join us for the Resource Carnival — a fun-filled, carnival-themed celebration to explore all the incredible majors, programs, clubs, and departments our campus has to offer. Visit each booth to learn more about campus resources and get your passport punched at every stop. Each booth features interactive games, giveaways, and activities to keep the fun going! Enjoy classic carnival snacks like popcorn and cotton candy as you explore, connect, and win! This is your chance to discover campus opportunities, connect with peers, and enjoy the carnival vibe!
8:00–8:50 AM
Check in
Social Hall, Main Hall 1st floor
8:50 – 9:00 AM
Announcements and Overview – Dr. Melissa Harris
Social Hall
9:00–9:30 AM
Morning Breakouts – Peer Advisors
Social Hall
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
“The Game of Life” Financial Literacy Activity – Ms. Nicole Rouse
Social Hall
10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
“Sister to Sister Connection” – Alumnae/Peer Advisors/Student Leaders
Social Hall
12:00–1:00 PM
Lunch – “Chat and Chew” with Alumnae
Alumnae Hall
1:00–2:30 PM
Resources Carnival – Programs and Campus Offices
Payden Academic Center
2:30–3:00 PM
Program Specific Meetings – Program Chairs
Payden Academic Center- Rooms TBA
3:00–5:00 PM
“Taking Care of Business” – Advising and Financial Aid
Main 100, Main Hall 1st floor
Friday, August 22, 2025 (Suggested Attire: Business Casual )
Event Highlights:
Keynote Address
Distinguished two-time Trinity alumna, Professor Sherron Washington, will deliver an inspiring keynote address about overcoming limitations and achieving success. Dr. Washington will share her personal journey through Trinity and how her experiences have contributed to her accomplishments as both an educator and entrepreneur.
New Student Convocation
The time-honored tradition of New Student Convocation will take place in the historic Notre Dame Chapel. This meaningful ceremony includes the Presidential Address and the signing of the Trinity Honor Pledge, marking the official welcome into the Trinity community.
8:00–9:00 AM
Check in
O’Connor Auditorium
9:00–9:50 AM
Keynote: “Becoming Butterflies” – Prof. Sherron Washington Trinity Class of ‘03 and ‘05
O’Connor Auditorium
10:00–11:00 AM
New Student Convocation
Notre Dame Chapel
11:30–1:00 PM
Lunch & Games
Alumnae Hall
1:00–5:00 PM
“Taking Care of Business” – Advising and Financial Aid
Main 100, Main Hall 1st floor