Student in lab conducting Biomedical Engineering Research

Next Steps Program Agenda

Welcome to the Next Steps Program

The path forward starts right here. As a Panther bringing your own experience and ambition, today is about discovering what’s possible next. Use this agenda to navigate your day, discover the right campus resources, and make progress on the essentials before you head out.

Your next chapter starts now, and we’re excited to see where it leads.

Orientation Information Page

Return to the Orientation Information website

Contact Us

Orientation Sessions

One-on-One Check-In

First Year Students under 21 years old

12 – 12:30 p.m.

Transfer and Adult First Year Students

1 – 1:45 p.m.

Start at Union Concourse to obtain your name badge and transition to the Fireside Lounge.

After checking in at the Union Concourse, you’ll meet with a staff member to discuss your top priorities for the day, receive your panthercard, determine which sessions to attend, and make a plan to accomplish your to do list so you are ready for the 1st day of classes.

Welcome and Transition Program Overview

First Year Students under 21 years old

12:30 p.m.
Union Wisconsin Room C

Transfer and Adult First Year Students

1:45 p.m.
Union Ballroom

Official welcome to UWM and overview of the program as well as what comes after.

Breakout Sessions

First Year Students under 21 years old

12:40 p.m. Students and Families attend separate sessions
12:45 – 2:15 p.m. Students: Technology Workshop and Small Group activities with Orientation Leader
12:45 – 1:50 p.m. Families: Supporting your Student’s Transition to College and Q&A Panel with Current Students

Transfer/Adult First Year Students and Families

2 – 3:10 p.m.
Student Union Ballroom

2:00 p.m. Student Financial Services
2:25 p.m. University Housing (Union 191) or Commuter session (Union Ballroom)
2:50 p.m. Student Experience and Talent

Next Steps Support

2 – 4 p.m.

Throughout the 1st floor of the Union

Complete your next steps and answer questions with resources across campus.

  • Accessibility Resource Center
  • Academic Advising Support – Union Overlook
  • Alumni Association
  • Campus and Sandburg tours – Tours depart at 2:00, 2:30 and 3 p.m.
  • Dining and Retail Services
  • FitWell
  • Military and Veterans Resource Center
  • Military Benefits Office
  • Off-Campus Resource Center
  • Office of Undergraduate Research
  • PantherCard Office
  • Student Financial Services Center
  • Student Health and Wellness
  • Student Parent Support Program and Children’s Learning Center
  • Student Success Center
  • Technology Supporty
  • University Housing
  • UW Credit Union
  • Visit the PantherShop – Don’t forget your coupon!

Next Steps Checklist

Complete the following items before leaving the Next Steps program

  1. Pick up PantherCard

  2. Complete University Terms & Conditions Agreement

  3. Complete Panther Transition Training

    Modules are located in your Orientation course in Canvas and are due Aug. 21

  4. Suggested Steps Based on your Needs

    • Confirm your dietary needs with Dining
    • Purchase a parking permit
    • Confirm necessary accommodations through the Accessibility Resource center
    • Plan for your living arrangements with Off-Campus Resource Center or University Housing
    • Confirm Military/Veteran benefits
    • Plan for childcare or create a plan before the first day of classes
    • Explore employment opportunities

  5. Save the Date

    Panther Transition Experience is Tuesday, September 1. Check your admissions portal for more information in August.