Student reviewing film strip with UWM professor in the photography lab

New Student Orientation Agenda

Welcome to New Student Orientation!

Your transition to UWM starts here, and this agenda is your guide for the day. You’ll meet fellow Panthers, learn about campus life, and get set up with everything you need before classes begin.

Follow along and check off each step as you make your way through the day. You’re officially part of the black-and-gold family, and this is just the beginning.

Orientation Information Page

Return to the Orientation Information website

Contact Us

Orientation Sessions

Welcome & Overview

9 a.m.

Wisconsin Room B – Union Second Floor

College Finances

9:15 a.m.

Wisconsin Room B – Union Second Floor

Planning for Living Arrangements

9:40 – 10:05 a.m.

  • University Housing: Living on Campus
    Lubar Hall N140
  • Commuting: Living off Campus
    Lubar Hall S 151
Academics & Student Success

10:15 a.m. – 4 p.m.

  • Small Group Activities
  • Lunch at Sandburg Cafe
  • Technology Workshop
  • Academic Advising & Enrollment
Check-Out & Next Steps Support

2:30 – 4 p.m.

  • Wisconsin Room B – Union Second Floor
    • Closing Session
    • Check-out and receive your PantherCard ID
  • Union Ballroom – Union First Floor
    • Complete your next steps and connect with student resources
    • Campus and Sandburg tours (optional)
      • Tours Depart at 3 and 3:30 p.m. from the Union Ballrom
    • Visit the PantherShop 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (don’t forget your coupon)
South Campus Tour (optional)

4 p.m.

Tour includes Riverview and Cambridge Residence Halls. Sign up by 3:30 p.m.

Sign up for a Housing Tour

Orientation Checklist

Complete the following items before leaving Orientation

  1. Pick up PantherCard

    Receive ID during check-out

  2. Complete University Terms & Conditions Agreement

    Complete in PAWS during Technology Workship

  3. Log into UWM technology

    Complete during Technology Workshop

  4. Enroll in Courses

    Complete during enrollment with your academic advisor

  5. Start Panther Transition Training

    Start during Technology Workshop—online modules are due Jan. 16

  6. Save the Date

    Panther Transition Experience is Jan. 23. Find details in your email coming soon

  7. Get your Cookie and Complete your Orientation Assessment

  8. Additional Steps Based on your Needs

    • Confirm your dietary needs with dining
    • Purchase a parking permit
    • Confirm necessary accommodations through the Accessibility Resource center
    • Check-in with the Off-Campus Resource Center or University Housing
    • Confirm Military/Veteran benefits
    • Open bank account
    • Submit Official High School Transcripts
    • Learn about employment opportunities