Parents/Families/Caregivers

Welcome to the William Paterson Community!


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Welcome Pioneer Families and Caregivers!  You are a critical member of the Pioneer community as you support your student through the transition into William Paterson University. Families/Guests are invited to participate in this Orientation experience designed for you!  You will hear presentations from many offices including Academic Development, Counseling, Health & Wellness, Financial Aid, Residence Life and more. We will provide many opportunities to answer your questions and provide you with the information needed to help with your student's transition to WP.   

SUMMER 2025 ORIENTATION

July 17th:  First-Year, EOF & Honors College Students

July 31st: First-Year Students

August 12th: First-Year Students

August 14th: Transfer Students

August 25th: International Students

    Note: WP Online Students are not required to attend in-person orientations.
    Information will be provided by your academic program.

    Orientation is a full day interactive experience, starting with registration and continental breakfast at 8:15am, with the program running from 9:00am - 4:00pm.  Lunch will be provided.   Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes.

    Please have your student click on the RSVP box to register for the parents, families and caregivers orientation, and include your contact information and email.

    If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at 973-720-6206 or at WPU-ORIENTATION@wpunj.edu, Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm

    Virtual Pre-Orientation Sessions

    To help support the parent and family in-person orientation experience, we invite you to join us for a series of virtual pre-orientation sessions.  These sessions will offer an opportunity to address any questions you may have before you and your student join us for the in-person orientation sessions throughout the summer.  You must register for the sessions through the William Paterson Family Portal. Zoom details will be sent once registered. 

    Virtual Orientation Session – En Español

    We invite our Spanish-speaking families to attend our “Sesión Virtual de Orientación en Español para Padres y Familias”.  This session will provide an overview of some of the key services and support that the University has to offer like Financial Aid, Billing and Payments, Academic Support and Advisement, Counseling, Health and Wellness, and Campus Life.  This session offers an opportunity to address any questions you may have – ¡en tu idioma!  You must register for the session through the William Paterson Family Portal. Zoom details will be sent once registered. 

    Parent / Family tips on how to prepare for Orientation
    • Be prepared to separate from your student for half of the day. Students will engage with other students, while you will participate with other families.
    • Have your student check their WP email for important information regarding orientation.
    • Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, keeping in mind weather conditions.
    • Bring something to take notes.
    • This is your time to ask any lingering questions.
    • It’s OK to have different emotions.
    • Remember, orientation is about your student, be in the moment and be excited with and for them!