We understand that the model of Golden Bear Experience, particularly Move-In Day, has an impact on our campus, including faculty and staff. Here are answers to questions about the Golden Bear Experience, how it will affect our campus, and ways the Berkeley community can contribute to welcoming our new undergraduate students.
If you have a question that is not addressed here, please email New Student Services: nss@berkeley.edu
General Questions
What is the Golden Bear Experience?
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The Golden Bear Experience, for newly admitted undergraduates, consists of four major components: Golden Bear Advising and Golden Bear Prep (both completed online, before students arrive) and Golden Bear Orientation and Getting Your Bearings (in-person programs, completed once students are here on campus). Move-In occurs August 20-21, 2024, prior to Golden Bear Orientation and Getting Your Bearings. Note: A small number of students that participate in pre-approved programs will be able to move in on August 21.
This experience is for undergraduate first-year students and for transfer students. Their transition to Berkeley begins online in the summer as soon as they accept their offer of admission. If you'd like to know more details, check out orientation.berkeley.edu.
What are students doing during the summer?
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All new undergraduate students are completing Golden Bear Advising and Golden Bear Prep. By completing these modules during the summer, students will know what to expect when they arrive and have a familiarity with the campus and its resources. They also will have connected with their academic adviser and be ready to enroll in classes.
How will the Golden Bear Experience affect me as a member of the Berkeley community?
We have 9,000+ new students who will be transitioning to campus during those times! Note: A small number of students that participate in pre-approved programs will be able to move in on a day prior to the general Move-In.
About 8,000 new undergraduates will be moving in on a weekday. Due to the congestion, we are asking staff to take specific precautions. You can find more details below.
Golden Bear Orientation is a weeklong event that begins the day after Move-In. You'll see groups of new students, led by Student Coordinators, participating in various orientation activities. This will lead to crowds and lines and congestion. Plan accordingly! Here are some suggestions:
Bring your lunch that week so you don't have to wait in long restaurant lines
Give yourself a little extra time to get to meetings or appointments on campus
Avoid scheduling vendor meetings or inviting outside guests to campus during orientation week
Ways you can support our new students
How can I support the new students?
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If you are a faculty or staff member, we have many ways for you to be more formally involved. If you believe your department should be more closely involved with the program, please email New Student Services at: nss@berkeley.edu.