Orientation

New Student Orientation will help incoming students feel connected to SOWELA, faculty, staff, and other students while creating a welcoming atmosphere that builds a sense of community among the incoming class. Orientation will provide new students with academic program expectations. New students will be made aware of the resources and services available to assist with their academic, personal and professional growth.

All new, full-time students are expected to attend one of the orientation sessions. Students are welcome to attend any of the on-site new student orientations in Lake Charles, Morgan Smith/Jennings, Oakdale, or Lamar Salter/Leesville.

Many of the topics discussed and the how to guides presented apply to students that are already registered for classes.

• In the event you have not been advised for Spring 2024, we advise that you reach out to your advisor prior to your orientation session to schedule an appointment.
• In the event you have been advised, but haven't registered for Spring 2024 courses, we advise that you attempt to schedule your courses prior to attending orientation.

If you need special accommodations at orientation such as special seating, please reach out to ods@sowela.edu prior to your orientation session.

If you are attending orientation at the Lake Charles campus, please report to the Sycamore Student Center to check-in (building #7 on the Campus Map). Students may park in the parking lot directly in front of the building.

If you are attending orientation at the Jennings/Morgan Smith campus, at the Oakdale site, or at the Lamar Salter/Leesville site, please park in the parking lot and check-in at the front of the building. Visit our Campus Map page for more information.

Check-in for orientation will begin approximately thirty minutes before the scheduled orientation.

Should you have any questions regarding orientation, please email fastadvising@sowela.edu for assistance.

Spring 2024 classes begin Tuesday, January 16, 2024.

Registration

Register For Orientation (opens new window)