At UNH, we believe parents and families are an important part of our Wildcat community. We understand that starting college is a big transition—not just for students, but for their support systems back home. Parent & Family Orientation is a great opportunity to learn more about the student experience, connect with UNH resources, and discover how you can support your student throughout their journey.
Parent & Family Orientation
What to expect
Parent & Family Orientation is designed to help you feel informed, confident, and connected as your student begins their journey at UNH. While your student attends their own Orientation program, you will participate in a separate schedule designed specifically for families and supporters.
Through presentations, panels, and informal conversations, you will learn about:
- Supporting your student’s academic and personal success
- Understanding financial aid, billing, and student accounts
- Navigating Health & Wellness services on campus
- Campus dining, housing, and residential life
- Resources for accessibility, mental health, and safety
- Getting involved and building community at UNH
- What to expect during the first year and how to support your student during their transition
You will also have the opportunity to explore campus, connect with other Wildcat families, and cheer on your student during one of UNH’s favorite traditions.
Registering for Parent & Family Orientation
Students may register up to two guests for Parent & Family Orientation when they complete their New Student Orientation registration through the Admissions Portal. Instructions for registering guests have been emailed directly to your student.
Please note:
- Students only need to attend one Orientation session.
- Parent & Family Orientation is optional but strongly encouraged.
- Guests are registered by the student during their Orientation registration.
Have a larger Wildcat family?
We know some families may wish to bring additional supporters. If you would like to request space for more than two guests, please email us and we will do our best to accommodate your group.
Schedule at a Glance
DAY ONE
- Check-In | 5 - 6:30 pm- Pick up materials and get settled for the program.
- Welcome Reception | Early evening- An optional add-on reception ($20.00/person) where you can connect with other families over light refreshments. See details below.
DAY TWO
- Morning Welcome | 9 am- Start the day with a welcome from university leadership.
- Informational Sessions- Learn about Student Life resources, financial services, and Dining Services.
- Academic College Breakouts- Meet with staff and advisors from your student’s academic college to learn more about their academic experience.
- Student Panel- Hear directly from current students about life at UNH.
- Campus Drop-Ins- Visit campus offices and speak with staff from Health & Wellness, the Center for Academic Resources, Student Accessibility Services, and more.
- Become the Roar- Wrap up the day by cheering on your student as they officially kick off their Wildcat experience.
Optional Guest Add-Ons
Families attending a two-day First-Year Orientation session may choose to add the following optional experiences.
Important information
- These options are not included in Orientation registration.
- Guests must purchase these options themselves. They are not registered by the student as part of Orientation registration.
- Overnight accommodations are limited and available on a first come, first served basis.
- Purchases must be completed at least 10 days before your Orientation session.
Purchase links will be sent to registered guests. Availability opens April 6.
Students do not need to purchase these options. Their meals and accommodations are included as part of their Orientation program.
Parent & Family Welcome Reception
Join UNH faculty and staff for a special evening reception featuring a welcome from university leadership, hors d’oeuvres prepared by UNH Hospitality, and beverages available for purchase.
This event is for guests only. Students will participate in separate Orientation programming at this time.
Cost: $20 per person
Reception tickets must be purchased at least 10 days before your session.
Overnight On-Campus Accommodations
Available only for families attending a two-day First-Year Orientation session.
Guests may reserve a one-night stay in Adams Tower West, one of our air-conditioned campus residence halls. This option allows families to stay close to campus and experience a UNH residence hall.
Please note: Space is limited and reservations are filled on a first come, first served basis.
Room Features
- Single beds with bedding provided
- Private in-room bathroom
- Air conditioning
Occupancy and Pricing
Single occupancy: $65.25
Double occupancy: $60.50
A UNH Family speaks with Lucy Gilson, Dean of Paul College, at the Parent & Family Reception
