Join us at App State Hickory to connect with classmates, meet faculty and staff, and explore the resources that will support your success. This in-person program will help you prepare for your academic journey and life as a Mountaineer.
Orientation Dates
Orientation dates are available to all first-year and transfer students at the Hickory campus.
- Tuesday, June 3, 2025
- Wednesday, August 6, 2026
- Tuesday, August 12, 2025
Session Overview
Orientation check-in starts in the main lobby at 8:30 a.m. with our formal Welcome starting at 9:00 a.m. New Mountaineers and Families will receive a printed schedule at check-in. The day will wrap up around 2 p.m.
Knowing Where to Go
New Mountaineers will be assigned to small orientation groups. Each small group will be assigned a SOUL (Student Orientation Undergraduate Leaders), who will help guide the orientation experience for new Mountaineers. Mountaineers will be provided with a printed copy of the daily schedule at check-in.
Lunch is provided for registered attendees. New Mountaineers will eat lunch with the SOUL and assigned student group.
What to Bring
Orientation requires a lot of walking, so please make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes.
Bring your questions and concerns! There will be lots of opportunities to ask your questions to staff and students. You will receive a tote bag at check-in to collect materials and swag throughout the day.
Parking Information
Parking is available for orientation attendees in the parking lot located directly behind the Hickory campus. Your parking fee is covered by your orientation cost. You will receive a detailed email with parking information before your orientation session date.
Accessible parking is available.
Tentative Event Schedule
The following schedule provides a glance at what a typical orientation session looks like. Exact schedules will be provided to attendees on the day of their orientation.
Tentative Hickory Orientation Schedule for All Students (Google Doc)