New and transfer students can begin making New Student Orientation (NSO) reservations in April and will be able to select a date to begin their orientation experience based upon their starting semester, campus of enrollment and college of enrollment. New Student Orientation will take place in June, July and August for first-year, transfer and international students and will involve a mix of real-time and self-paced learning. Students will have the opportunity to meet with an academic adviser to discuss their academic plans; register for courses; gain access to critical Penn State systems, including Starfish and LionPATH; and begin to make connections with fellow students.
How will I be notified about Orientation details?
If you are admitted to Penn State for the summer or fall semesters and have accepted your offer of admission, you will gain access to the NSO Tasklist in March. You will receive an email to the email address provided on your admissions application when you have access. There will also be an access link located on the Penn State Orientation Webpage.
Do I have to attend Orientation?
Yes, all degree-seeking students are required to attend Orientation. At Penn State New Kensington, orientation is a two step process. The first step is to participate in New Student Orientation (NSO) and then to attend Extended Orientation Programming-Welcome Days before classes begin.
What happens at Orientation?
Orientation is a chance to begin to develop academic and co-curricular goals, make connections with other students, become familiar with campus resources, discuss your academic goals, and schedule courses for your first semester. This is your opportunity to begin implementing your academic plan and discover all that Penn State New Kensington has to offer you.
How and when do I schedule my classes?
A main feature of NSO is the opportunity for each student to meet individually with an advisor to discuss academic goals and plan courses for the first semester at PSNK. Prepare for this by downloading the Penn State GO app on a smart device and completing the Pre-NSO homework sent by email.
Is it mandatory that parents/guardians/family members attend Orientation?
A support system is important during a student's transition to college. Understanding this, we offer a concurrent orientation program for them, but it is not mandatory they attend. More information will be available when you make your reservation.
How do I obtain a PSU ID Card?
This will be part of your NSO tasklist that you will receive after registering for NSO. Look for details that you require you to upload a photo or yourself.
Where do I get my parking pass?
Student parking is free of charge. Students must complete a motor vehicle registration form in order to receive a valid parking permit. Permits must be renewed each year, and can be picked up during the first two weeks of each semester in the main lobby of the Administration Building, or any other time in the University Police & Public Safety office. A valid Penn State ID or State ID is required when picking up your permit.
How will I know what books I need? Is the bookstore open during Orientation?
Textbooks can be purchased at the Barnes & Nobel bookstore on campus or the bookstore’s website.
