New Student Orientation Schedule
Saturday, August 16th 2025
MOVE-IN DAY
Sunday, August 17th, 2025
TBA
Monday, August 18th, 2025
TBA
Tuesday, August 19th, 2025
TBA
Wednesday, August 20th, 2025
TBA
Thursday, August 21st, 2025
TBA
Move-In Day Information
A Guide to Move-in Day
Helpful Tips for Move-In Day
TIP #1:
DRESS COMFORTABLY — Students and parents should dress in casual clothes for Move-In Day. Wear comfortable shoes or sandals.
TIP #2:
STAY HYDRATED — Think about bringing a water bottle that you can refill in order to stay hydrated throughout the day.
TIP #3:
EAT REGULAR MEALS — Eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Move-In Day and throughout New Student Orientation to stay energized for unpacking, meeting new people, and attending programs.
TIP #4:
INTRODUCE YOURSELF — Introduce yourself to everyone you meet, sit next to in a program, or visit with while between sessions.
TIP #5:
RUN ERRANDS — Know that you will have time to shop for room supplies, toiletries and groceries. Use free time to run errands.
TIP #6:
ASK QUESTIONS — Ask any and all questions that you may have. If you need more time with a presenter, approach the speaker after a session is concluded.
TIP #7:
HAVE FUN!! — Whether you are a new student or the parent of a new student, enjoy the start of this adventure at the University of Providence!
Uniquely UP
Basecamp University
Montana is home to breathtaking views, including the Highwood, Little Belt, Big Belt, and Adel Mountain Ranges that surround Great Falls. To make things even better, the Sun River meets the mighty Missouri River with both running through the heart of Great Falls. Montana is also home to many different species of wildlife, including Elk, Mule Deer, Moose, Black Bears, and Grizzly Bears, Mountain Lions, Bighorn Sheep and of course, the iconic American Buffalo (Bison). The recreational opportunities of our beautiful state are endless, and the University of Providence is blessed to be in the center of it all. The area surrounding the University of Providence boasts several state parks, along with multiple Blue-Ribbon fishing opportunities, public land access, and one of the top ski areas in the state, all within a reasonable driving distance from campus!
UP has a variety of outdoor equipment available for students to checkout, free of charge. Options include, bikes, kayaks, paddle boards, and more!
You pack your bags and head to UP, you may want to consider bringing the following items so you will be well prepared to embrace all the Great Falls area has to offer.
- Hiking Shoes
- Hiking Backpack
- Camping Equipment (Tent, Camp Stove, Sleeping Bag)
- Cooler (Bear-proof recommended)
- Binoculars
- Fishing Gear (Fishing rod, tackle, waders, etc.)
- River Tubes
- Dry Bag
- Ski/Snowboard Equipment
- Winter Gear (Jacket, snow pants, winter boots, gloves, hat)
- First Aid Kit
- Bear Spray (must be held with Campus Safety)
- Insect Repellent
- Sunscreen
Parent and Family Information
Parents, guardians, and family are welcome and encouraged to attend Orientation on the 17th and 18th. Orientation is just as important for parents, guardians, and family as it is for students. Everyone in your family is about to experience a transition and can learn how to support one another. Orientation includes a variety of sessions designed specifically for parents and guests. You can also assist your student and the university by making sure your student has completed all the items on the checklist they will receive at NSO before you leave Great Falls.
Supporting Your Student’s Mental Health
Issues related to student wellbeing, including mental illness and suicide, continue to be among the most critical concerns facing higher education institutions across the country. We care deeply about our University of Providence students and want each one to thrive at UP. If your student is currently receiving counseling or medication for a mental health issue, we highly encourage you to start planning for the continuation of these services before your student arrives on campus. Having a plan for ongoing care prior to arrival is important for all students, but such a plan is especially vital if your student has experienced significant recent concerns or has longstanding mental health concerns. If you anticipate your student will need specialized clinical services (treatment or maintenance therapies for eating disorders, substance abuse or dependence, dialectical behavioral therapies, etc.) or will need services more than every now and again, we recommend establishing mental health care with a provider in Great Falls or via Telehealth prior to the start of the semester.
Student Success Tips for Students Living Off Campus
- Join a club or organization.
- Get involved with other commuting students.
- Become friends with people who live on campus.
- Eat in the Student Center or MOJOs.
- Study on campus.
- Take advantage of all the things to do on campus including events and activities.
- Get a part-time job on campus.
- Use the Fitness Center in the McLaughlin Center.
- Volunteer and engage in service opportunities.
- If you work off campus, consider finding a work environment where you can be a student who works rather than an employee who goes to school.
