One of the best ways of transitioning to college life is to participate in a Pre-Orientation program at Lawrence. 

Whether it's kayaking, visiting the beautiful landscapes in Wisconsin, tapping into your creative juices, or exploring intentional rituals, meet peers with similar interests and goals over 4 days.

About Pre-Orientation 

  • Programs provide opportunities to help you learn things about yourself that can be applied to your first year at Lawrence.
  • The experiences are designed to inspire connection, leave students energized, emotionally balanced, and mentally focused. 
  • Pre-Orientation takes place just before the required Welcome Week activities for all new students. 
  • To make programs meaningful experiences, registration is capped at 20 students or less.

Register for a Pre-Orientation Program!

  • Registration Open: March 1, 2025.
  • Applications Close: June 15, 2025 (11:45pm).
  • Accepted Applicants Notified: No later than June 20, 2025.
  • Program Dates: 
    • Ritua@l & Street Art Squad: September  3-6, 2025. (Move-in September 3.)
    • Land & Sea Adventures: September 2-6, 2025. (Move-in September 2.)
  • Cost to participate: $150 (Financial assistance is available and can be requested in the application form.)

** Due to overlapping programming, fall athletes, new international students, and students that participate in Summer Institute will NOT be able to participate in a Pre-Orientation Experience.

REGISTER TODAY!
ritual circle

RITU@L Retreat

Roadmap of Intentional Practices for Traversing the Unknown @ Lawrence

RITU@L is open to all students and offers a gentle transition to life at Lawrence:

  • Explore simple practices for life balance (journaling, meditation, cooking, art, nature walks, etc.)
  • Transform ordinary habits into intentional practices
  • Gain control, minimize stress, find peace
Students in front of Drew Street Wall Mural they painted for Pre-Orientation Experience

Street Art Squad

Design and paint a 104-foot mural overlooking Drew Street

  • Virtual collaboration before arrival
  • On-campus design and painting with staff assistance
  • All materials provided
  • Opportunities for other times of connection (public art tours, evening connection activities, etc.)
Students standing by canoes on a lakeshore at 2024 Sylvania Land and Sea Pre-orientation experience

Land and Sea

Make a 3.5-hour trek north to discover the natural beauty of the Sylvania Wilderness at a group campsite on Marion Lake.

  • Canoe, fish, and camp
  • Evening campfire, meals, and community building
  • Swimming is not required but helpful; comfort in water with PFD essential