Translate

About Orientation at Cal Poly

Welcoming New Mustangs to Cal Poly

Cal Poly Orientation is a tradition that has welcomed new Mustangs to campus, connected students, parents and supporters and community members to Cal Poly, and built life-long relationships for over 65 years.

Recognized as one of the nation’s best new student orientation programs, Cal Poly Orientation is the first step of every new Mustang’s journey that sets them up for academic, social and career success during their time at Cal Poly and beyond.

Three Programs, Lifelong Memories

Led by the New Student and Transition Programs (NSTP) department, Orientation at Cal Poly is made up of three major programs: Open House, SLO Days and Week of Welcome (WOW).

Open House

Open to all admitted students, their supporters, and the broader San Luis Obispo and Cal Poly alumni communities, Open House is a three-day event held in April that showcases the Cal Poly experience and offers a glimpse into life as a Mustang.

Learn about Open House.

SLO Days

SLO Days is the first of a two-part mandatory summer orientation program for all new students. During this experience, students enjoy their first on-campus moments as Mustangs while building connections with fellow students, campus leaders, and their academic college as they explore campus and the San Luis Obispo community.

Parents and supporters are also encouraged to participate in SLO Days supporter tracks, which provide opportunities to connect with other supporters, learn more about Cal Poly, and discover the best ways to support their new Mustang.

Learn about SLO Days.

Week of Welcome

Known simply as WOW, Week of Welcome is a 65-year-old tradition designed to help new students begin their Cal Poly journey through dynamic academic and community-building experiences. Last year, more than 6,000 students participated in the program, which was led by hundreds of dedicated student leaders.

Learn about WOW.

All students, regardless of sex, race, color, or national origin, who are interested in the program’s mission and focus are welcome.

Learning Outcomes

At Cal Poly, student success is at the core of everything we do. The SLO Days and WOW orientation program is designed to provide new Mustangs with the resources, connection and support they need to thrive.

By participating in SLO Days and WOW, new students will:

Establish a connection with one or more other students.
Establish a connection within their chosen academic discipline.
Be knowledgeable in the academic support resources available to them.
Be knowledgeable in the co-curricular and wellbeing resources available to them.
Understand the transitional issues (social and academic) they may encounter during their first year and how to manage them.
Be knowledgeable and aware of their identities and the diverse identities of others in the Cal Poly community.
Confirm their decision to attend Cal Poly.