Science Bldg. (52), Rooms E8-10
805.756.2400
orientation@calpoly.edu
orientation.calpoly.edu
The first step for newly-admitted students and their families begins at orientation with a campus visit to preview the campus during the Spring quarter. Summer orientation provides the next steps with an introduction to the Cal Poly community, academic programs, extensive services, and rich traditions.
New Student and Transition Programs offers several program sessions throughout the summer and at the start of the academic year to support new students as they enter and transition into Cal Poly:
- Student Life Orientation (SLO) Days – a Summer Orientation Session for all incoming first-year and transfer students
- Parent & Supporter Orientation – for the parents and family members of new students
- Week of Welcome – a Fall Quarter program for advising and enrollment support
Cal Poly Open House
Cal Poly Open House is an annual, three-day event that showcases the campus to admitted and current students, their supporters, alumni, and the San Luis Obispo community. Stemming from Poly Royal, Open House began in 1994 and has since featured programs such as the university and college welcomes, Friday Nite Invite, Poly Royal Campus Showcase, Poly Royal Rodeo, the tractor pull, and many more fun activities. This event takes place in April each year. Cal Poly’s Admitted Students’ Preview Day (during Open House weekend) is when admitted students and their supporters have an opportunity to preview the campus and connect with its leaders. Preview Day features presentations, tours and event opportunities to meet college deans, faculty, and current students, and hear from President Jeffrey D. Armstrong about the many resources and programs available to Cal Poly students.
Student Life Orientation (SLO) Days
Student Life Orientation (SLO) Days is a summer orientation program for all incoming students and their supporters. This summer orientation introduces students and supporters to the university through campus tours, information sessions from our many campus offices, student and parent panels, and presentations from Cal Poly’s administrators. “The Mustang Way” and “Learn by Doing” mottos are integrated throughout the student and supporter sessions to provide a true Cal Poly experience.
Week of Welcome (WOW)
Week of Welcome (WOW), recognized as one of the nation’s largest university orientation programs, integrates thousands of new students to life at Cal Poly during their first week before classes begin in the fall. More than 900 student WOW Leaders volunteer their time to educate new students about campus and community life, educational resources, and valuable services and programs that will help them have successful and fulfilling experiences at Cal Poly.
Student participation in both SLO Days and WOW is mandatory for incoming freshmen.