It is a pleasure to welcome both you and your student to the UMD community! Our number one priority is the success of our students and we know that the support from you is essential. Students are required to attend Orientation Advisement & Registration (OAR). To assist you, we have provided a specific program for families and supporters.
Spring OAR
The Spring OAR experience is offered to students who are starting spring semester. Understanding the unpredictable nature of weather in Duluth and the surrounding areas, subject to lake-effect snow, we are proactive by offering OAR exclusively online.
Once students confirm their Admissions decision through their New Student Portal, they will begin their OAR journey. For families and other supporters of our students, we are happy to offer a Family and Supporter Canvas Community where anyone may view up-to-date UMD content similar to what students receive in their New Student Portal Checklist.
Fall OAR
The Fall OAR programming is offered to students in one of two ways - an on-campus format or a virtual experience. Both programs endeavor to help students acclimate to the UMD culture and campus.
- Throughout the on-campus program, families and other student supporters will share programming with their student and also have their own distinct programming geared specifically toward those who now have a student in their lives. We will share university resources, tips, and tricks for supporting your student, and give you a chance to chat with others who are in similar situations. Details about this program will be emailed to you, provided your student has added you as a “Guest” to their OAR reservation in the New Student Portal.
- Our virtual programming is simply an abbreviated version of the on-campus program - many transfer students opt for this program since they have some level of college experience. During this program, students and their families/supporters will be together the entire time since many supporters have also often had some level of orientation to college in the past.
Looking beyond our OAR experience, you can access a Family and Supporter Canvas Community where you'll f ind up-to-date UMD content similar to what students receive in their New Student Portal Checklist. Should you need extra support or have questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the OAR program in the Bulldog Resource Center.