This summer, approximately 1,000 first-year students who will begin their studies in the fall semester at Penn State Berks will get a preview of what college life will be like through the New Student Orientation Part 1: Advising & Scheduling (NSO1) program, which runs from mid-June to early-July.
"Berks NSO1 is an important program for students and their families,? explains Paula Plageman, Coordinator of Academic Advising at Penn State Berks. ?During this program, our first-year students receive an excellent academic orientation to Penn State University as a whole as well as information that is specific to Penn State Berks. Students learn about academic expectations and requirements and receive guidance as they schedule their fall courses. The program is designed to help prepare students to be academically successful and to begin to develop an ownership of their educational experience.?
During this series of daylong programs, academic advisers, as well as faculty and staff members, help incoming first-year students evaluate their educational plans. The day consists of informational programs, individualized academic advising, and assistance with scheduling fall semester courses.
Students and their families are introduced to the wide range of academic degree programs available through Penn State. Students learn about their placement test results, which are completed online prior to the student?s NSO1 visit, and about courses and programs designed to enhance their educational experience. In addition to learning about academic programs, students learn about the college and its policies and procedures, buy their textbooks, have their photo ID taken, obtain a computer access account, learn about classroom expectations and have an opportunity to meet other incoming students.
The Student Services Fair introduces students to Athletics, Campus Life, Career Services, Financial Aid, Housing and Food Services, the Learning Center, Multicultural Affairs, and a variety of other student services.
While some of the activities are only for the students, families are invited and encouraged to come to NSO1 with their student and attend the general sessions, as well as sessions presented specifically for families.
For more information, contact the Berks Academic Advising Center at 610-396-6280.