Hello,

We are super excited to welcome you on campus this fall, and we’ve got some exciting new things to share with you along the way.  I would like to provide you with some information about your transition to UM, which will consist of a brand-new, entirely online New Student Orientation program along with our signature, award-winning week of welcome called the Big Sky Experience.

Residence hall move-in day and our week of welcome will be here before you know it, and we want you to be ready to start your college journey with everything you need to be successful.  

All incoming students should keep an eye on your Bear Tracks checklist throughout the summer, as new items to complete will appear from time to time.  In addition to Bear Tracks there are a couple additional things to look out for. 

• New Student Orientation will be an entirely online and self-paced program for the first time ever, and you will gain access to complete it the first week of August.  No need to sign up – just keep an eye on your email for more info later this summer.  The program will take you about an hour to complete, and you can pause and come back to it as many times as you would like. 
• The Big Sky Experience (BSE), Aug. 21 – 25, 2023, is an immersive week of welcome required for all incoming first-year students to attend.  During this week you will be in a small group of peers with a UM Advocate as your mentor and guide.  You will move in to your residence hall, get to know campus and the Missoula community, complete some fun activities, and continue learning about all the resources and supports we have for you here at UM.  Registration will open in July, so keep an eye on your email this summer.
• Pre-Orientation Trips: Looking for some extra adventure?  The Freshman Wilderness Experience or Flathead Lake Biological Station trip might be for you!  Find all the details and links to register here.  Space is limited.

Let me know if there is anything we can help with regarding your transition to the University of Montana. We are here for you every step of the way.

Talk to you soon, Griz! 

Devin Carpenter 
Director of New Student Success 
Office of the Vice Provost for Student Success 
orientation@mso.umt.edu | 406-243-2332