Parents & Families

family smiling with doc the tiger

 

Summer 2020 Family Orientation

Pre-orientation Module

The first step of orientation is completing a pre-orientation module, which is now available. Families should encourage their student to complete the module as required prior to their scheduled orientation date. Families who register for orientation will be provided their own link to the pre-orientation module and should not use their student’s log-in.

Live orientation sessions

Orientation sessions for freshmen students, transfer students and family members and guests will be held throughout the summer. As a family member, you will not attend a session on the same orientation date as your student. The schedule of topics for live Family Orientation is as follows:

  • Tuesday, June 30: Financial Aid and Paying your Bill (Watch the Recording)
  • Thursday, July 9: Academic Advising and Support
  • Tuesday, July 14: Health and Counseling
  • Thursday, July 16: Families of Freshman Transition Program Students*
  • Thursday, July 23: Campus Safety
  • Tuesday, July 28: Housing and Residence Life
  • Saturday, August 1: Ask an Orientation Leader — Current Student Panel

A live session will be offered at noon and 5 p.m. EST each day, and a recording of the session will be posted afterwards.  

*Only offered at noon EST.

For more information about student orientation sessions, visit the Freshmen Student Orientation page or Transfer Student Orientation page.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

Who should attend Family Orientation?

Family Orientation welcomes all families and supporters who have a new student attending TU, but our program is not mandatory. Family Orientation is strongly encouraged for first-generation families and those sending their first student to Towson University. 

What is the fee for Family Orientation?

While there is a fee for students to attend New Student Orientation, guests attending virtual Family Orientation will not be charged a fee.

For students who may need a fee waiver in order to attend their orientation, please complete this form.

How do I register for Family Orientation?

Because of our registration system, your student MUST register you for Family Orientation at the same time they choose their New Student Orientation date. It is important that you communicate with your student to ensure they register you for our program.  If you have questions about registration, call New Student and Family Programs at 410-704-2309 and we will be happy to help!

What is the Family Network? How can I sign up to be a member?

The Family Network is a community of parents and family members dedicated to ensuring students are successful during their time at TU. Membership is $50 per family and includes discounts to Family Weekend, scholarship opportunities, and a bi-annual magazine. You can sign up for the Family Network on their website. 

What happens during Family Orientation? 

You will have access to presentations about campus life, health and counseling, safety, housing and billing/financial aid. You will also receive a guest log-in for the pre-orientation module students are required to complete.

Can my student bring a guest, spouse or friend to Family Orientation?

YES! We encourage and welcome anyone who supports a TU student attend participate in our program.

However, all guests who register for Family Orientation will have to follow the program and WILL NOT be able to attend any student-only sessions. 

Why can't I be with my student when they register for classes or get their transcript evaluated?

There are two main reasons: First, due to the Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), all information pertaining to the student’s academic record is given to the student only. Second, we want students to begin to take ownership of their academic journey since they will be the ones taking classes. Students are assisted by highly qualified academic advisers and support staff who are available to answer any questions they have.

We’re coming to TU from out-of-state. Where can we stay? Are there any good restaurants in the area?

Towson and the metro Baltimore area are known for their great amenities. See hotels close to campus and check out some amazing places to eat and visit during your stay in the Baltimore area.

Welcome to Towson University!


Learn more about transition information from orientation leaders, fellow parents and students.



 

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