Orientation
As you make your transition to University of the Ozarks this Fall, we want you to be prepared for your college journey. New Student Orientation will provide you with many different resources, connections, memories, and more that will set you up for a successful start to your college career.
Please feel free to contact to the Office of Student Life at 479-979-1322 or studentlife@ozarks.edu if you have any questions regarding new student orientation. Check down below for details related to Freshman New Student Orientation, Transfer Student Orientation, and the Orientation & Move-In Schedules.
Freshman New Student Orientation
New Student Orientation is a special part of your transition to University of the Ozarks. Taking place the weekend prior to the beginning of classes, Friday, August 21st – Monday, August 24th, new freshman students are required to attend days filled with very special events tailored to assist you in beginning your journey as a college student at Ozarks! During New Student Orientation, we hope you will gain valuable knowledge, friendships, connections, and more that will benefit you during your college career. Below you will find the summarized version of our New Student Orientation.
All first-year students, both commuters and students living on campus, are required to participate in New Student Orientation. These activities cover a wide range of topics and information to ensure that you are set up for success at Ozarks.
Friday, august 21st
WELCOME HOME – check out the schedule overview for fall 2026.
| TIME | EVENT | LOCATION | DESCRIPTION |
| 7:30 – 11 AM | New Student Move-In | New Student Residence Hall | Begin your Ozarks journey by moving into your campus residence hall! Unpack, get to know your roommate, and meet your Resident Assistant (RA), who’s here to support you throughout the year. This is your first step in making Ozarks your home away from home. |
| 9 – 11 AM | Campus Connections | Rogers Conference Center (inside Seay Student Center) | Pick up your Orientation materials and connect with the campus resources that will support you throughout your time at Ozarks. Visit staffed tables hosted by knowledgeable professionals from student services, academic support, campus life, and more. |
| 11:00 AM | J-1 Visa International Student Orientation (required) | Walker Hall 220 | For students holding J-1 visas only. Important information on expectations, campus support, and getting settled in the U.S. |
| 11 AM – 1 PM | Lunch | Borck Dining Hall (inside Seay Student Center) | Enjoy a relaxed lunch in the dining hall with your family before orientation activities pick up. This is a great time to connect, ask last-minute questions, and share a meal before students dive into their Ozarks experience. |
| 1 – 1:30 PM | Ozarks Welcome: New Student & Family Gathering | Seay Theater (inside Walton Fine Arts Center) | Join university leadership, families, and new students for an official welcome to the University of the Ozarks. Hear from the Orientation leadership team, work through the events of the day, and take part in this shared milestone as your Ozarks journey begins. |
| 1:45 – 3:30 PM | Ozarks Seminar Session #1 | Classrooms as assigned on the back of your name tag! | This is your first official academic session at Ozarks and a required part of the Orientation experience for all students enrolled in an Ozarks Seminar course. You’ll meet your seminar instructor, connect with classmates, and begin exploring what academic life looks like here. Not assigned to an Ozarks Seminar? No problem! Head to the Walton Fine Arts Lobby, where an Orientation Leader will guide you to your next session. |
| 4:00 PM | Matriculation | Munger-Wilson Memorial Chapel | Matriculation is a cherished Ozarks tradition that formally marks your entry into the University community. As a new student, you’ll sit with your Ozarks Seminar class and be joined by your peer mentors and faculty. This symbolic event honors your commitment to academic and personal growth while celebrating your place in the Ozarks family. |
| 5 – 6:30 PM | Community Fair: Your Ozarks. Your Clarksville. Your Home. | Campus Mall | Discover the people, places, and services that make Ozarks and Clarksville feel like home. At this vibrant fair, you’ll connect with local businesses, student life services, and essential services. Grab free giveaways, shop the bookstore kiosk, and explore how to make the most of life on campus and in the community. |
| 5:30 – 7:30 PM | President’s Family & Student Farewell Picnic | President’s Home | Kick off the weekend with great food and warm conversation. Meet President Dunsworth and enjoy a relaxed evening with family as you say goodbye. This is the last event for families. |
| 8:30 – 10 PM | Game On. Chill Out. | Sport Courts (behind New Student Hall) | Your first campus chill night starts here. Join your freshman class for rec-court games, team-building fun, and ice cream as you kick off a new tradition and meet the people you’ll be doing life with on campus. |
saturday, august 22nd
| TIME | EVENT | LOCATION | DESCRIPTION |
| 8 – 9 AM | Residential Breakfast | New Student Residence Hall Kitchen | Freshmen, stop in for a quick bite before jumping into your first full day of Ozarks life. Coffee, fruit, and easy eats—ready when you are. |
| 9 – 10 AM | Commuter Breakfast | Seay Student Center – Lower level | Connect over breakfast alongside returning commuters. Swap tips, share experiences, and get a head start on making campus feel like home, even if you’re not living here. Hosted by “The Commuter Collective” student organization. |
| 10 – 11:30 AM | Playfair | Rogers Conference Center (inside Seay Student Center) | Freshmen only! Dive into Playfair, a favorite amongst students, for a fun-filled way to meet every student in your class. We will beat the heat afterward to cool off with water games! |
| 11:30 AM – 1 PM | Lunch | Borck Dining Hall (inside Seay Student Center) | Students with a meal plan can swipe in with their student ID and enjoy a relaxed late-morning meal between sessions. |
| 1 – 2 PM | Ozarks Seminar Session #2 | Classrooms as assigned on the back of your name tag! | Meet back up with your seminar class for continued conversation with your instructor and peer mentor. You’ll dive deeper into college success and building your Ozarks foundation. |
| 2 – 3 PM | Building a Dialogue of Consent | Seay Theater (inside Walton Fine Arts Center) | Through engaging activities and real talk, this session explores what consent looks like in healthy relationships. Walk away informed, confident, and empowered to make safe choices. |
| 4:00 – 5:30 PM | Walton Scholar Meeting (Walton Scholar Students ONLY) | Walker Hall 220 | Meet with the Director of WISP to get oriented to life at Ozarks and prepare for a successful year as a Walton Scholar. |
| 5:30 – 7:30 PM | Dinner | Borck Dining Hall (inside Seay Student Center) | Use your student ID to swipe in and grab dinner with your peers. |
| 8 – 10 PM | Welcome Home: Hall Hangout | New Student Residence Hall | Meet your floormates in a relaxed, fun setting right in your residence hall. A great way to unwind and build your new community. |
sunday, august 23rd
| TIME | EVENT | LOCATION | DESCRIPTION |
| 9 AM – 12 PM | Worship Opportunities | Community Locations | Attend Sunday worship at 11:00 AM in Munger-Wilson Memorial Chapel, hosted by First Presbyterian Church. A list of other local worship options is available in your Orientation packet. |
| 9 – 11 AM | Rise & Recharge: Choose Your Morning Path | Various Locations | Start your morning with movement, mindfulness, and fresh air: Wellness Path: 9 AM: Yoga Adventure Path: 10 AM – 12 PM: Bike & Brunch Pick one or mix and match…the focus is on restoring energy and getting grounded. |
| 11 AM – 1:30 PM | Walmart Shuttle | Seay Student Center Drive | Forgot something? Catch a free shuttle from the Seay Student Center Drive to Walmart and stock up on essentials. |
| 11 AM – 1:30 PM | Brunch | Borck Dining Hall (inside Seay Student Center) | Students with a meal plan can swipe in with their student ID and enjoy a relaxed late-morning meal between sessions. |
| 2 – 4 PM | Eagle Serve | Rogers Conference Center (inside Seay Student Center) | Get hands-on with service during your Ozarks Seminar as you pack meals for Kids Against Hunger, benefitting children locally and globally. Service is at the heart of the Ozarks experience. |
| 4 – 5:30 PM | Residential Life Floor Meetings | New Student Residence Hall | Living on campus? Meet your RA and get to know your floor. You’ll learn about hall expectations, how to connect, and what to expect in your new space. |
| 5:30 – 7:30 PM | Dinner | Borck Dining Hall (inside Seay Student Center) | Join fellow students for dinner on campus and use your meal plan for the first time. This is a great chance to meet other new students. Don’t forget your student ID—it’s required for entry. |
| 8 – 10 PM | Hunt for the Holy Grail | New Student Residence Hall – Game Room | Hunt for the Holy Grail with students on your hall in this campus-wide treasure hunt that will introduce you to various points of interest at Ozarks. |
MONDAY, AUGUST 24TH
| TIME | EVENT | LOCATION | DESCRIPTION |
| 7 – 9:30 AM | Breakfast | Borck Dining Hall (inside Seay Student Center) | Students with a meal plan can swipe in with their student ID. |
| 9 – 10 AM | Ozarks Seminar Session #3 | Classrooms as assigned on the back of your name tag! | Meet back up with your seminar class for continued conversation with your instructor and peer mentor. You’ll dive deeper into college success and building your Ozarks foundation. |
| 10 – 10:45 AM | Academic Freedom | Seay Theater (inside Walton Fine Arts Center) | Join the Vice President for Academic Affairs for a conversation on academic freedom in the age of AI and digital tech. Explore how critical thinking, innovation, and integrity shape your college experience. |
| 10:45 AM | Class of 2030 Photo | New Student Residence Hall Lawn | Gather with your entire class for your first official group photo as Ozarks Eagles. Don’t be late, you’ll want to be in this one — and wear your purple! |
| 11 AM – 1:30 PM | Lunch | Borck Dining Hall (inside Seay Student Center) | Students with a meal plan can swipe in with their student ID. |
| 12:30 – 2:30 PM | F-1 Visa International Student Meeting (Required) | Walker Hall 220 | For students holding F-1 visas only. This important information meeting is required. |
| 5:30 – 7:30 PM | Dinner | Borck Dining Hall (inside Seay Student Center) | Join returning Ozarks students for a relaxed second dinner and a chance to build new connections across campus. This is a great opportunity to meet upperclassmen, hear about student life from their perspective, and expand your Ozarks network over a shared meal. |
| 7 – 10 PM | Glow Games | New Student Residence Hall Lawn | Get ready for a night of glowing fun! Join your fellow new students for Glow Games—an evening packed with glow-in-the-dark cornhole, ping pong, darts, and more. Whether you’re playing to win or just hanging out, this is a great way to unwind, meet new people, and enjoy the Ozarks after dark. Hosted by Campus Activities Board |
Transfer New Student Orientation
Transfer students planning to live on campus in the residential halls will need to move in on Sunday, August 23rd from 2 – 4 PM. Transfer Student Orientation is not required but is highly encouraged and beneficial and will take place August 23 & 24 at various times. Check your email for more details!
Transfer students living off campus will need to check-in with us on Monday, August 24th.
Transfer Student Orientation is designed to provide students with information on campus resources, connect with faculty and staff members, and learn what it means to be an Ozarks Eagle. Attendance to Transfer Student Orientation is highly encouraged for our new transfer students. All Transfer Students are encouraged and welcome to attend all Freshmen New Student Orientation Session on August 23rd & 24th. Make sure you have registered for this event by following the link sent to your email.
Please check your email for more information regarding your move-in/commuter check-in date and timeframe and orientation information. You can also refer to the Get Prepared for Orientation & Move-In section below for more details on preparing for your journey at Ozarks.
Sunday, august 23
WELCOME HOME – check out the schedule overview for fall 2026.
| TIME | EVENT | LOCATION | DESCRIPTION |
| 2 – 4 PM | Transfer Student Move-In | Assigned Residence Hall | Welcome to campus! Transfer students assigned to on-campus housing will move into their residential space. Staff will be available to assist with check-in, answer questions, and help you get settled. Look for signs and volunteers when you arrive, and check your email for specific instructions based on your hall assignment. |
| 5:30 – 7:30 PM | Dinner | Borck Dining Hall (inside Seay Student Center) | Join fellow students for your first dinner on campus and use your meal plan for the first time. This is a great chance to meet other new students, connect with orientation leaders, and get familiar with campus dining. Don’t forget your student ID—it’s required for entry. |
| 8 – 10 PM | Outdoor Movie | Campus Mall | Join us on the lawn for a laid-back movie night under the stars with incoming freshmen and returning upperclassmen. Bring a blanket, grab some snacks, and enjoy a relaxed evening getting to know your campus community. |
Monday, august 24
| TIME | EVENT | LOCATION | DESCRIPTION |
| 8:30 – 9 AM | Check-in, Pick up iPad & Books | Rogers Conference Center (inside Seay Student Center) | Kick off your Ozarks experience by checking in with orientation staff, enjoying a light breakfast, and picking up your iPad and textbooks. All transfer students must have their Student ID before attending this session. If you still need one, visit Public Safety on the 1st floor of the Seay Student Center prior to arrival. |
| 9 – 11 AM | Transfer Student Seminar | Rogers Conference Center (inside Seay Student Center) | This required session is designed specifically for transfer students to help you navigate academic life at Ozarks. Learn about key resources, connect with support staff, and gain practical strategies for a successful transition into the Ozarks community. |
| 11 AM – 1 PM | Advising Lunch: Meet your Academic Advisor | Rogers Conference Center (inside Seay Student Center) | Connect with your academic advisor over a relaxed, catered lunch. This is your chance to ask questions, explore your schedule, and learn how your advisor will support you with registration, course changes, and long-term academic planning |
| 1 – 2 PM | Campus Tour/Classroom Tour | Rogers Conference Center (inside Seay Student Center) | Join our student ambassadors for an optional guided campus tour designed to help you feel confident before the first day of class. You’ll get familiar with key buildings, locate your classrooms, and pick up helpful tips along the way. |
| 5:30 – 7:30 PM | Dinner | Borck Dining Hall (inside Seay Student Center) | Join returning Ozarks students for a relaxed second dinner and a chance to build new connections across campus. This is a great opportunity to meet upperclassmen, hear about student life from their perspective, and expand your Ozarks network over a shared meal. |
| 7 – 10 PM | Glow Games | New Student Residence Hall Lawn | Get ready for a night of glowing fun! Join your fellow new students for Glow Games—an evening packed with glow-in-the-dark cornhole, ping pong, darts, and more. Whether you’re playing to win or just hanging out, this is a great way to unwind, meet new people, and enjoy the Ozarks after dark. |
Parent & Family Orientation
Friday, august 21st
WELCOME PARENTS & FAMILY – check out the schedule overview for fall 2026.
| TIME | EVENT | LOCATION | DESCRIPTION |
| 7:30 – 11 AM | New Student Move-In | New Student Residence Hall | Help your student get settled into their campus home. Volunteers will be on hand to unload your vehicle and bring your students items to their assigned room. Residence Life Staff will be available for assistance. |
| 9 – 11 AM | Campus Connections | Rogers Conference Center (inside Seay Student Center) | Explore the offices and services dedicated to student success. Visit staffed tables hosted by knowledgeable professionals from student services, academic support, campus life, and more—all here to support your student’s journey. |
| 11:00 AM | J-1 Visa International Student Orientation (required) | Walker Hall 220 | For students holding J-1 visas only. Important information on expectations, campus support, and getting settled in the U.S. |
| 11 AM – 1 PM | Lunch | Borck Dining Hall (inside Seay Student Center) | Enjoy a relaxed lunch in the dining hall with your family before orientation activities pick up. This is a great time to connect, ask last-minute questions, and share a meal before students dive into their Ozarks experience. |
| 1 – 1:30 PM | Ozarks Welcome: New Student & Family Gathering | Seay Theater (inside Walton Fine Arts Center) | Join university leadership, families, and new students for an official welcome to the University of the Ozarks. Hear from Orientation leadership team, work through the events of the day, and take part in this shared milestone as your Ozarks journey begins. |
| 1:45 – 3:45 PM | Parent & Family Orientation | Seay Theater (inside Walton Fine Arts Center) | New seasons come with several unknowns and many questions. Join Ozarks Representatives to learn from their experiences and take advantage of the opportunity to ask questions in a small group setting. |
| The Academic Experience | Rowntree Auditorium (inside Walton Fine Arts Center) | Learn how Ozarks supports student learning, advising, and academic success. Speaker: Vice President for Academic Affairs – Dr. Janie Diels 1:45 – 2:15 PM: Group A 2:25 – 2:55 PM: Group B 3:05 – 3:35 PM: Group C | |
| Student Care | Baldor Auditorium (inside Boreham Business Building) | Understand how we promote health, safety, and belonging—both in and out of the classroom. You will hear from Dining Servies, Athletics, Residence Life, Student Conduct, and Campus Safety. Speaker: Student Services 1:45 – 2:15 PM: Group C 2:25 – 2:55 PM: Group A 3:05 – 3:35 PM: Group B | |
| Straight Talk from Parents | Wilson Science Center – Room 133 | Hear directly from President Dunsworth and Holly Dunsworth as they share their perspective and helpful tips as university leaders and parents. Speakers: President Rich Dunsworth and Holly Dunsworth 1:45 – 2:15 PM: Group B 2:25 – 2:55 PM: Group C 3:05 – 3:35 PM: Group A | |
| *groups for orientation session for parents are based upon last names: Group A: Last names beginning in A-J Group B: Last names beginning in K-R Group C: Last names beginning in S-Z | |||
| 4:00 PM | Matriculation | Munger-Wilson Memorial Chapel | This formal event marks your student’s official entry into the academic community at University of the Ozarks. Families are invited to witness this meaningful milestone as students pledge their commitment to the values of scholarship, integrity, and service. It’s a proud moment of transition—from high school graduate to Ozarks Eagle. |
| 5 – 6:30 PM | Community Fair: Your Ozarks. Your Clarksville. Your Home. | Campus Mall | Discover the people, places, and services that make Ozarks and Clarksville feel like home. At this vibrant fair, you’ll connect with local businesses, student life services, and essential services. Grab free giveaways, shop the bookstore kiosk, and explore how to make the most of life on campus and in the community. |
| 5:30 – 7:30 PM | President’s Family & Student Farewell Picnic | President’s Home | Hosted by President Dunsworth, this final family event offers a relaxed setting to enjoy good food, connect with other families, and share a meaningful send-off. Take this moment to say goodbye and celebrate the beginning of your student’s journey at Ozarks. |
Getting Prepared for Orientation & Move-In
As a new student at University of the Ozarks, we want to ensure that you and your family are prepared as much as possible for Orientation and Move-In. Please review the Orientation & Move-In checklist below, as it lists important steps you should take to ensure you are ready to start your journey at Ozarks.
Register for Orientation.
New Student Orientation is a requirement for all incoming freshmen students. Make sure you have registered for this event by following the link sent to your email. Go sign up and verify with us your attendance! Search your inbox for subject line: ‘Ozarks Move-In & Orientation’
Complete the remaining items in your Ozarks Self-Service
It is important that you complete all of the items listed in your Ozarks Self-Service to ensure all important documents and procedures are completed prior to your attendance at orientation.
Prepare for Move-in on Friday, August 21.
- All freshman students will move into their assigned residence halls 7:30 – 11 AM.
- If you have any questions, please contact the Office of Student Life at 479-979-1322 for assistance.
Be ready to engage and connect with fellow Ozarks Eagles!
Orientation is going to be beneficial to you in a number of ways, and being fully engaged in your orientation sessions will help you get the most out of your experience during New Student Orientation and Transfer Student Orientation. Make sure you are on time for each session and you are prepared with questions and/or comments beforehand. Don’t be afraid to be yourself and fully participate in the orientation sessions.
If you are a person with a disability and need an accommodation to participate in the New Student Orientation, please send your request to Vanessa Hollowell, Director of Student Success Center, at 479-979-1404 or email vjhollow@ozarks.edu
FALL 2026
Shuttles – Little Rock International Airport to Ozarks
The Little Rock Airport shuttle service established to help transport new students from the Little Rock International Airport to University of the Ozarks campus will take place August 22nd. If you would like to use this service, please complete the Shuttle Request Form. The Little Rock airport shuttle service is available to domestic and international students.
Please note the times listed for each airport shuttle trip are the arrival times to the Little Rock Airport. This means you must plan your arrival to the Little Rock Airport prior to this time to ensure your ride on the university shuttle. More details on the shuttle service from the Little Rock International Airport to Ozarks campus will be provided to those students who sign up using the travel itinerary form.
**Please make sure you are aware of your assigned move-in and orientation start date and time-frame before booking your flight to Arkansas and filling out the Shuttle Request Form to utilize the Little Rock airport shuttle service.
FOLLOW US!
Looking for additional important dates?
Contact the Office of Student Life at 479-979-1322 or studentlife@ozarks.edu if you have any questions.