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After Golden Bear Orientation, you may participate in Getting Your Bearings, a collection of events sponsored by campus departments and student organizations, for newly admitted undergraduates. It starts the day after Golden Bear Orientation and lasts through the first three weeks of the semester. You may choose from hundreds of events, participating in the ones that mean the most to you.

Fall 2026 dates: August 25 – September 13 

Spring 2027 dates: Check back later for more information

Check out the Cal Events app for events and links in the fall. Although it is not mandatory, Getting Your Bearings offers ways you can shape your experience at Cal, dig deeper into community, and just have fun!