New Student Programs
Welcome to Asheville, Bulldog!
At Ģý, New Student Programs offered through the Office of Student Transitions and Family Programs provide incoming students with a structured, welcoming launch into campus life. Beginning with the required EmBark Orientation for first-year students, participants move in early, engage in small-group sessions, meet faculty and advisors, and build connections with peers and campus resources. Beyond orientation, the program also includes pre-orientation experiences and Summer Welcome Days, giving new students additional opportunities to acclimate to the academic and social environment of Asheville and the surrounding region.
EmBark Orientation
EmBark Orientation
EmBark Orientation is your introduction to life as a student at Ģý. This is a time for you to get settled and to connect with fellow students and campus resources. We’ll answer all of your questions and make sure that you have the support you need.
All incoming first-year and transfer students are required to attend EmBark Orientation.
EmBark will be offered throughout the Summer, select your dates and register through your AVL Bound Portal:
IGNITE First-Year Experience Program
IGNITE First-Year Experience Program
IGNITE supports the transition of first-year students by helping them develop the personal skills and confidence needed to succeed at Ģý. Peer Academic Leaders (PALs) first meet their student cohorts at the conclusion of EmBark, Ģý’s first-year orientation, where students are grouped by IGNITE and First-Year Seminar cohorts to foster early connections and community. At the end of EmBark, PALs lead the first IGNITE session, “Finding Your Spark,” encouraging students to explore their passions and set meaningful intentions for their college journey. Throughout the fall semester, PALs continue to engage with students in their First-Year Seminar classes every other week, facilitating sessions on identity development, values exploration, authentic relationships, effective communication, personal strengths, and becoming a change agent.
Weeks of Welcome
Weeks of Welcome
Weeks of Welcome (WOW) is an ongoing series of events for new and returning students during the first two weeks of class each fall and spring semester. Students who participate in these events find connections to others, learn about our campus traditions, and gain a sense of pride in the Ģý community. From information sessions to social events, our WOW programs aim to ensure that every student at Ģý feels supported on their academic journey.
Contact Us
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Highsmith Student Union 301 One University Heights, CPO 1200 Asheville, NC 28804