Home > 

Communication

As you prepare to join the Dartmouth community, New Student Orientation will regularly communicate with you about important information, deadlines,

Throughout the next few months, you will find emails from our office here - but always pay attention to your Dartmouth email.

Traveling this summer?

The majority of communication from Dartmouth will be via your Dartmouth email address.

Make sure you have a plan for accessing email during the summer — and, again, be prepared to manage applications online or electronically. 

You will want to make sure you receive your copy of Explore, Engage, Excel (which will support your course election process); this will arrive via US Postal service in July. Students living outside of the United States will receive this publication as a PDF via email.

If you aren't leaving until mid-June: You should get all of the most essential information before you leave.

If your travels begin before mid-June: Please make sure to have your mail and email forwarded to you. If that is not an option, contact the Undergraduate Deans Office with an alternate address for someone who can open your mail/email and follow-up as needed and attend to deadlines: 603.646.2243 or undergraduate.deans.office@dartmouth.edu.

September 2024

August 2024

July 2024

June 2024

May 2024

New Student Orientation - What to Expect - 9.03.24

Hello from the Collis Student Center, where we are busily preparing for your arrivals on September 4 or September 8 – and enjoying those of you who are already here as part of a pre-Orientation program or as pre-season athletes.

New Student Orientation begins on Wednesday (tomorrow) for many, and we’ll add more folks on September 8. 

  • You will receive a printed Orientation schedule at your assigned arrival time on Wednesday or Sunday. A PDF of that schedule will be available on the Orientation website on Wednesday morning. If you are already on campus, please stop by your House Community on Massachusetts Row for an Orientation packet and fun stuff.
  • The entire schedule – with further details – will be available online. We’ll make sure you have that link, which will also be on the New Student Orientation website in the morning.
  • The Orientation Leaders will keep you informed of where to be and what’s happening.
  • And the emails from New Student Orientation will keep coming, to make sure you know what the next day will include. Please keep reading
  • Check out these links for campus construction information and maps to reach residence halls! Please share if you have folks coming with you for moving in.
  • For lunch on September 4 and September 8: if you’ve checked in and have your Dartmouth ID – great! Please use it to “swipe” at Class of 1953 Commons. If you don’t yet have your ID – no worries! Enjoy lunch!
     

Over the next few days, each of you will follow a schedule based on your First-Year Trip Section or arrival date (if arriving on September 8). Then, beginning on the evening of September 11, you will move through Orientation ALL TOGETHER as a class.

Here’s what you can expect over the next few days if you are arriving on September 4 because you are participating in a First-Year Trip or already on campus:

Wednesday, September 4

  • Arrive at your assigned time and move into your residence hall.
  • First-Year Trips Section A: grab any gear you requested between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. See printed or online schedule for location.
  • By 4:00 p.m., you’ll say goodbye to any family or supporters who helped you with move-in.
  • Join your classmates and House Community for A Dartmouth Welcome!! A livestream will be available on the NSO website for anyone not here on Wednesday.
  • Following the Welcome!!, you will process to the First Meeting of the Class of 2028. See Canvas for a live stream of this program if you are not on campus.
  • Find information on the required evening program in the schedule (printed and online).
  • And Section A should get some good sleep, so you are ready for the next day!
     

Okay … enough for now. See you very soon and take good care – be in touch with what you need.

Thank you!

Weekly Update - 8.30.24

Hello! How is it going!? Hard to believe our “Weekly Updates” have gotten us to the end of August!

We’ll be communicating more often very soon but here’s a quick UPDATE to end this week:

REMINDERS

UPDATES

  • Who are my Advisors? became available today (August 30) in DartHub – find the names of your Faculty Advisor and Undergraduate Dean with this tile. Apologies for the delay!
  • Undergraduate Housing posted awesome Arrival Maps on their website – make sure you also saw the emails they sent this week with arrival instructions.
  • We’re sharing this update on behalf of Dartmouth College Health Service:
    Exploring Outdoors with First-Year Trips, during New Student Orientation, and around Hanover: As part of our Orientation and First-Year Trips programming, we encourage students to discover the outdoor spaces around campus and in the area. Our staff and student organizers offer information and resources to help students stay safe through their explorations. If you are participating in a First-Year Trip, please know that we follow standard safety protocols to help proactively minimize risk. Trip organizers encourage participants to take precautions, such as providing insect-repellent and wearing protective clothing to protect against insect-borne diseases. Health Service works with all of us – across campus – to ensure that we're providing healthy experiences for students. Learn more about these precautions on the First-Year Trips Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and the Health Service information about Eastern equine encephalitis.
     

LOOKING FORWARD

  • We can’t wait to hear your “looking forwards.” Now that we’ve updated the What to Expect in New Student Orientation page on Canvas, we want to hear more from you. Fill out this brief form sharing with us what you hope to learn and experience during New Student Orientation (NSO). We really want to hear from you!
  • And we’ll talk again soon to make sure you are ready for Wednesday – if that is your arrival day. We are looking forward to YOU!

We imagine these might be complicated days of travel, transition, and maybe some emotion; we’re thinking of you and waiting here to welcome you!

As always, be in touch with any questions. We will talk to you again soon.

Weekly Update - 8.25.24

Hello! How are you doing? Here’s a quick update this week to help keep you on track.

REMINDERS

  • Important Deadlines … they’re coming soon!
    September 2 = complete the required Achieving Community Together modules in Canvas (or earlier, if you are a pre-season athlete or participating in a pre-Orientation program).
    September 3 = complete pre-arrival Sexual Assault Prevention, AlcoholEdu, and Mental Well-being online courses. Access these trainings through DartHub.
    September 6 = complete the required Academic Advising and the Liberal Arts module in Canvas.
    September 9 = submit Standardized Test Scores if they are to be considered in fall term course election via DartHub.
  • If your first opportunity to use Canvas will be once you arrive, due to technology or computer issues – don’t worry! There will be plenty of time and space set aside to take care of these transition requirements.
  • Please sign-up for an arrival slot on your assigned arrival day (September 4 or September 8, depending on First-Year Trip participation) as soon as possible if you haven’t already – you can do this through DartHub.
  • If you are participating in a First-Year Trip:
    Make sure to follow the packing list you received in your assignment email (or on this webpage). If you have questions – contact First-Year Trips via email at First-Year.Trips@dartmouth.edu or give them a call at 603.646-3996.
    And – make sure you have the stuff you need to be comfortable and confident for your First-Year Trip at the top of your bag, especially if you are on Section A.
  • You heard from the Orientation Leaders this week about a program they’ll be hosting during Orientation called Real Talk. If you haven’t already, make sure to check out the email from them and submit your questions using this form!
     

UPDATES

LOOKING FORWARD

  • In a few days, Residential Life will email you with specific information about your residence hall for your move-in – watch for that message!
  • We’ll keep you posted on when you’ll be able to see the names of your Faculty Advisor and Undergraduate Dean – it might not be August 28, as stated on DartHub and your checklist but will be soon.

We’ve got a super busy week ahead of us and imagine you do, too! Be in touch with any questions and take good care – talk soon!

Welcome to Campus! 

Hello and hope you are well.

New Student Orientation has been communicating with your student throughout the summer and will continue to support them with timely communication and overviews as they transition to their new community. We’re excited to write you today with a quick hello and a few key details as we prepare to welcome you and your student to Dartmouth!

Arrival and Move-in

We know that some of you may be joining your student as they move in on either Wednesday, September 4 or Sunday, September 8. We wanted to make sure you saw the schedule, which includes a few events and programs for Dartmouth families and supporters. We appreciate that not all of you will be able to join your student; don’t worry – there will be PLENTY of folks ready to help them move in and get settled. 

Please note: if you arrive on campus early, your student needs to wait for their assigned arrival time to check in with Undergraduate Housing and get their Dartmouth ID and room key, etc. 

The culminating event for families and supporters on September 4 will be A Dartmouth Welcome!!, which is an opportunity for you to hear from College leadership before watching the great Class of 2028 and transfer students process to their first official Orientation program - the First Meeting of the Class - which is for incoming students only.

Please note that families and supporters will sit separately from students, so you should say “goodbye” to your student before 4:00 p.m. Your student will travel to this program with their residence hall floor at 4:00 p.m. and sit with their House Community once they reach Memorial Field.

If you cannot attend, A Dartmouth Welcome!! will be live-streamed, recorded, and posted online for families and supporters to view at your convenience. 

Upcoming Messages

Next week, you will hear from Anne Hudak and Eric Ramsey, our interim deans of the College, who are very excited to meet you in September! 

You will also receive information about family events and resources from Bridget Colacchio, director of family support and engagement, who will be a key resource for you as you support your student in navigating their Dartmouth journey.

Lastly, your student will receive an email from Residential Life that includes specific information and directions pertaining to their residence hall and assigned move-in time.

We are thinking of you and your student as you prepare for this transition. Take good care and we’ll see you soon!

weekly update - 08.18.24

Wow – you will be here soon (we can’t wait)! A quick catch up, below, and we’ll be in touch again soon. (Sorry for this long email but we have lots to tell you.)

First, though, we want to make sure everyone arriving on Wednesday, September 4 (participating in a First-Year Trip) *and* with an assigned arrival time knows the schedule for the end of that day, following your move in:

4:00 p.m. = you will gather with your residence hall floors to walk to A Dartmouth Welcome!! where you will sit with your House Community.
Your family/supporters will sit separately so you should say “goodbye” before 4:00 p.m.

4:30 p.m. – 5:15 p.m. = A Dartmouth Welcome!! at Memorial Field (rain or shine). In the case of severe weather, we will update the schedule.
College leadership and our House Communities look forward to welcoming you with brief remarks. This event will be live-streamed, recorded, and posted online if you are not on campus on September 4 or if your families/supporters need to leave before this time.

5:15 p.m. = You will join your classmates as the great Class of 2028 to process to your first event with upper-level student leaders, which begins at 5:30 p.m. (live-streamed and recorded for students arriving on September 8). This is followed by dinner as a class and meetings with your residential floors and Undergraduate Advisors (UGAs). It will be a busy evening!
 

REMINDERS

  • If you haven’t already, please sign-up for an arrival slot on your assigned arrival day (September 4 or September 8, depending on First-Year Trip participation) as soon as possible!
  • Please be sure to register your cell (mobile) number through DartHub under the “personal data” section.
  • Keep working on the required Canvas modules (see What to Expect in Canvas for a reminder of what is required).
  • And maintain your progress on the Required Online Student and Community Wellness Courses: Alcohol Education; Sexual Violence Prevention; Mental Wellbeing; and Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging. Access these trainings through DartHub.
     

UPDATES

  • We recently launched the Academic Advising and the Liberal Arts required module. In this module, upper-level students walk you through the curriculum and academic requirements, introduce you to the various moments of academic exploration during Orientation, and invite you to think a bit more about community and expectations. It is an AWESOME resource and will provide a terrific foundation for advising and course election. Within this resource, you will also find a section on Getting Started in Math, Engineering, and the Sciences and information on the Health Professions Program. Please complete this required module by September 6.
  • FYI: if you pre-purchased your computer from Dartmouth and are arriving on September 4, you will be able to pick it up during your arrival appointment time on Massachusetts Row. If you are arriving on September 8, you can pick up your pre-purchased computer on Monday, September 9 between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. at The Computer Store - the Orientation Leaders will point you in the right direction!
     

LOOKING FORWARD

  • If you haven’t visited the Orientation Leaders’ Instagram site, you should – it just keeps getting better! If you have any questions you’d like to ask the OLs, make sure to fill out this form.
  • Important to know: once you arrive on either September 4 (participating in a First-Year Trip) or September 8 (not participating in a First-Year Trip) you will be busy! 
    When not engaged in one of the four sections of First-Year Trips or after you arrive on September 8, you will cycle through three days of required programming, focusing on the following: Discover Dartmouth Introduction to Our Intellectual Community Community Values in Action.
    Additionally, your days will be filled with other important foundational resources and activities: Academic Department and Program Open Houses Course Election and Course Changes, supported by faculty and other advising Introduction to House Communities Student Involvement Fair And more!
     

Sending best wishes as you finish your summer and get ready to start your Dartmouth journey – we’re here for you always!

Take good care of YOU and we’ll talk again soon.

Weekly Update - 08.10.24

Howdy! This was a super busy week – we’ll keep the update brief and get back to work!

REMINDERS (and deadlines)

  • You are doing an AWESOME job with ID photos! BUT a few of you still haven’t Uploaded a Photo for Your ID –  do this as soon as possible so your ID is ready when you arrive!
  • Please make sure to sign-up for an arrival time on your assigned move-in day of September 4 or September 8 if you have not already registered. You can do this through your Housing Portal in DartHub. IMPORTANT: you cannot change your arrival date unless you withdraw from your First-Year Trip, in which case your arrival will shift to September 8 from September 4. Early arriving fall athletes, FYSEP Summer Session participants, and pre-   orientation program students do not need an appointment and will receive arrival information directly from their group.

Upcoming deadlines:

  • September 2 = deadline to complete the required Achieving Community Together modules in Canvas (or earlier, if you are a pre-season athlete or participating in a pre-Orientation program).
  • September 3 = deadline to complete the Alcohol Education; Sexual Violence Prevention; Mental Wellbeing; and Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging online courses (or earlier, if you are a pre-season athlete or participating in a pre-Orientation program).  These trainings became available on July 29 through DartHub.
  • The Undergraduate Deans Office has truly enjoyed “chatting” with some of you during their online advising sessions. There are two more this week, specifically for students interested in Engineering and/or Computer Science.
    See the July 26 email from the Undergraduate Deans Office for more information.
  • And don’t forget that we launched the Sexual Violence Prevention Project (SVPP) module in Canvas last week. Please review before you arrive on campus.
  • If you are unable to complete these courses or modules because of technology challenges (including inconsistent internet, etc.), make sure to complete them as soon as you are on campus and with the technology you need. Don’t worry – we’ll make sure you have time once you are here!
     

UPDATES

  • We updated the New Student Orientation website with schedules for Arrival / Move-In and the beginning of New Student Orientation on September 4 and September 8.
    You also received an invitation this week to create your DartWrite Portfolio through WordPress. Enjoy exploring this opportunity!
     

LOOKING FORWARD

  • As you think about packing, make sure to review this awesome webpage from Undergraduate Housing – including their What to Bring to Campus section on that page.
  • Watch for news of a few more online advising chats with the undergraduate deans – they’ll be in touch soon!
  • Remember to  ask questions of the Orientation Leaders (OLs) through Canvas or their Instagram – the OLs are great resources and can’t wait to get to know you!

As always, be in touch with any questions. Take care and we’ll talk to you soon!

Weekly Update - 08.03.24

Hello again! How are you doing? Lots happening here – let’s catch up with our Weekly Update email! 

REMINDERS*

  • The deadline has passed but we still need ID photos … from about 159 of you! Please make sure to Upload Photo for Your ID as soon as possible if you haven’t already done so!
  • August 5 = If you would not like your Admissions essay to be considered for Your Class, Your Words, please opt out by this Friday using this form.

- There is NO action required if you are okay with your essay being considered.

  • August 7 = Make sure to authorize your parent or guardian access to D-Pay so that you receive notice of the first statement. See DartHub.
  • Prior to your arrival on campus and no later than September 2 = deadline to complete the required Achieving Community Together modules in Canvas.
    - We added a Personal and Campus Safety module on August 2, which is also required.
    - If you are unable to complete these modules because of technology challenges (including inconsistent internet, etc.), make sure to complete them as soon as you are on campus and with the technology you need.
     

*If you are arriving early as a pre-season athlete, for the FYSEP program, or for a pre-Orientation program, you need to complete any required Canvas or online modules by your arrival date or as soon as you are on campus and with the technology you need.

UPDATES

LOOKING FORWARD

  • Wednesday, August 7 at 2:00 p.m. ET = appointment slots become available on your Housing Portal (DartHub, Housing StarPortal). Sign up for your move-in time on either Wednesday, September 4 or Sunday, September 8 (depending on whether or not you are participating in a First-Year Trip).
    - In order to accommodate everyone arriving on campus, you must sign up for a move-in appointment.
    - Early arriving fall athletes, FYSEP participants, and pre-Orientation program students do not need an appointment and will get arrival information from their program directly.
     

As always, the What to Expect page in Canvas can help you understand what is coming next.

In a few weeks, we’ll add more about in-person New Student Orientation – so stay tuned!!

We’ll share more next week – until then, take care!

Online placement exams through canvas - 07.29.24

Hello again and hope you are very well! 

We are excited to share that the list of Dartmouth generated placement exams is now available on the New Student Orientation Canvas site!

Before we discuss next steps in accessing online placement exams, here are some quick thoughts from your Undergraduate Deans:

  • We will talk more about this over the next few weeks, but it is important to know that the primary purpose of Dartmouth Generated Placement Exams is to ensure that you are taking courses appropriate for your level of preparation. 
  • Should you take a placement exam? All students, and particularly international students whose academic credentials are not easily interpreted within the academic setting used in the United States, are urged to consider taking relevant exams, even if you do not plan to continue in that area of study. If you are unsure of your placement or want to confirm that this is the correct assessment of your knowledge, it is recommended that you take an exam. 
  • However, please know that past experience tells us that not all students choose to take placement exams; for those who do, some take only one, while others take several.
  • If you have been approved for testing accommodations by Student Accessibility Services (SAS) and would like to utilize them for placement exams, please alert the SAS advisor with whom you first talked in a timely fashion so that your advisor can notify the appropriate department(s). If you still need to apply for disability accommodations, please do so right away. Email student.accessibility.services@dartmouth.edu with any questions.
  • For additional guidance on placement from the Undergraduate Deans Office, visit this Canvas page.

 

Online Placement Exams on Canvas:

  • Most of the online placement exams are available through Canvas.
  • To access an exam, click on the exam link and self-enroll into the Canvas course for that exam.
  • Feel free to self-enroll in any or all exams; self-enrolling does NOT mean you must then complete the exam.
  • Many of the exams have detailed instructions and guides to help you determine whether or not you should take a placement exam. To view those, self-enroll in the course and review the information through that exam’s site.

 

Need Help?

  • For specific Placement Exam questions, email the department contact directly. 
    - Contacts for each exam are listed on the Placement Exam section of the NSO Canvas site.
  • For more information regarding Canvas, you can browse this Canvas Student Guide; click on the help link within Canvas to access 24/7 phone, chat, and email support.

 

We wish you well and – if you choose to take any Dartmouth Generated Placement Exams – good luck!

Weekly update - 07.27.24

Hello and happy almost August! How are you doing? We hope you are making space for yourself in these busy days.

Welcome to this week’s update email with more exciting news – lots to share, so read carefully:

REMINDERS

July 31 = Deadline if you would like to indicate your religious affiliation/heritage through the Personal Information tile in DartHub. Information submitted after the deadline will be shared periodically.
August 1 = Time is running out to Upload a Photo for Your ID. Yikes – some of you won’t have an ID waiting for you when you arrive!
- Please upload your photo as soon as possible to have your ID ready when you arrive. 
- You’ll need your ID for so many things at Dartmouth – we want it to be ready for you when you get here! 
- Please contact Dartmouth Card if you have any concerns about being able to complete this task before arrival.
August 5 = If you would not like your Admissions essay to be considered for Your Class, Your Words, please opt out by this Friday using this form.
- There is NO action required if you are okay with your essay being considered.
August 7 = Make sure to authorize parent or guardian access to D-Pay so that you receive notice of the first statement. See DartHub.
Will you be seeking on-campus employment? If so, you will need to produce several forms of unexpired, original identification. See Required Paperwork for New Student Employees from the Student Employment Office for more information.
And you can learn more about Student Employment in the Resources Canvas module!

UPDATES

  • You received your housing assignments – wow! Congratulations! 
  • As you imagine living on campus, explore the new module in Canvas: Achieving Community Together: The Principles that Define Us, which will help you understand your role as a member of the Dartmouth community and the College’s expectations for your behavior.
    - The sections in this module are to be completed on your own and at your own pace. You may leave a module at any time and come back to it later.
    - Please complete these required modules by September 2.
    - If you are unable to complete them because of technology challenges (including inconsistent internet, etc.), make sure to complete them as soon as you are on campus and with the technology you need.
  • We also launched Introducing: Academic Departments and Programs. Visit this module to learn a little bit more about departments and programs as you continue exploring the curriculum.
    - And if you want to revisit the fabulous Snapshots, you can find those on Canvas too!
  • You’ve already read about what the Orientation Leaders (OLs) do … now read about who they are! Visit the OL canvas module or OL Instagram for an introduction to the upper-level students who will be supporting you during  New Student Orientation.
    - And while you’re learning about the OLs, don’t forget to introduce yourself by sending them a postcard. Find more details in Canvas.
    Don’t forget! The OLs are taking your questions! You can submit your questions anonymously here. 
     

LOOKING FORWARD

  • Information about optional Dartmouth Generated Placement Exams – including a list of exams and how to access them – will be available in Canvas on Monday, July 29. We’ll email you when we publish the new module!
    Many students take these placement exams, and plenty of students do not – so the decision to take a placement exam is absolutely up to you.
  • Required online student and community wellness courses become available on Monday, July 29 in DartHub. These courses will help you contribute to an environment that prioritizes the core values of safety, wellbeing, and inclusion for every member of our community.
    - FYI: some of you might have started or already completed the courses once you submitted your Dartmouth Short Survey.
    - If you are unable to complete these important courses because of technology challenges (including inconsistent internet, etc.), make sure to complete them as soon as you are on campus and with the technology you need.
    - Please complete these required courses by Tuesday, September 3!
  • Consider registering for online advising chats with the undergraduate deans – see their Friday, July 26 email for more information!
     

We know this is a lot of information, so we created a What to Expect Over the Summer page in Canvas to help you understand what Canvas modules are required and their deadlines.

  • In a few weeks, we’ll add more about in-person New Student Orientation – so stay tuned!!
     

August will be a very exciting month; we can’t wait to share more with you! Take good care and we’ll talk again very soon.

Weekly Update - 07.21.24

Hello – hope you are well.

This is a long email, but we have lots of important information to share!

First, though – We’re serious about this: Upload your student ID photo as soon as possible so that it is ready for your arrival. You will need your Dartmouth ID card to get into your residence hall room, eat in the dining halls, and pretty much everything from the first moment you arrive on campus. GET THIS DONE – you’ll be glad you did!

  • Your ability to move-in to your residence hall (as well as collect any packages you’ve had mailed to Dartmouth) will be delayed if you do not submit your photo by the August 1 deadline.
  • Please be in touch if you have any concerns about being able to complete this task before the August 1 deadline.

REMINDERS

  • For your information: if you think you are the target of a phishing attempt or receive a suspicious email (even if you are not sure about it!) please report it to phishing@dartmouth.edu. Check out the Phishing FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions).
    • Also please note: no Dartmouth faculty or staff will email students directly about job opportunities.
  • Upcoming deadlines:
    • July 22: deadline to request, if desired, a different First-Year Writing placement.
    • July 24: deadline to complete the Dartmouth Short Survey. You received an invitation to this survey from Dartmouth’s Institutional Research office.
    • July 31: deadline if you would like to indicate your religious affiliation/heritage through the Personal Information tile in DartHub. Information submitted after the deadline will be shared periodically, if you request, with a representative of your faith affiliated with the Tucker Center.
  • If you were unable to complete the Academic Interest Form by the July 16 deadline: we re-opened the Form until July 26. Please complete this as soon as possible if you have not already done so.
    • It is very rare that the College would move a deadline. One of the most important things you will learn at Dartmouth is how to manage competing deadlines. Take this opportunity to ensure you make all other deadlines on time (if not early)!

UPDATE

  • We hope you’ve already begun exploring the Snapshots we sent last week, our “whirlwind tour” of departments and programs at Dartmouth. As you continue your exploration of the curriculum at Dartmouth, we encourage you to review these Snapshots and refer to them often.
    • We’ll be sharing more soon on Canvas about academic departments and programs, so these Snapshots are meant to serve as a short and “snappy” introduction to academics at Dartmouth. Enjoy!

LOOKING FORWARD

  • In next week’s “Update,” we’ll share more information about Dartmouth-generated placement exams and introduce new Canvas resources.
  • We'll also chat a bit about the Required Online Student & Community Wellness Courses that become available on July 29.
     

Take good care – talk again very soon!

Snapshots: meet Dartmouth's Academic Departments and Programs!

Hello!

It’s been a busy few weeks with lots happening, so we wanted to turn our attention (and yours!) to exploring the incredible academic opportunities within Dartmouth’s liberal arts curriculum. 

This email presents our amazing Snapshots: a ‘whirlwind tour’ of the departments and programs at Dartmouth, within the four academic Divisions: Arts and Humanities; Interdisciplinary Departments and Programs; Sciences; and Social Sciences. We hope they help you begin the process of reflection and investigation that will lead to course election for your first term at Dartmouth – and beyond!

We encourage you to explore these Snapshots as you begin your Dartmouth journey: click on the links provided and learn about departments, programs, course offerings, and faculty. Keep them handy (you might even consider printing them for note taking!).

Your exploration and investigation will continue over the next few weeks with deeper introductions to academic departments and programs through Canvas ahead of the in-person Open Houses that happen during New Student Orientation. 

Until next time – have fun exploring, and we will talk again soon!

Weekly Update - 07.14.24

Hello – how are you doing?

It's been a difficult week on campus following the loss of a member of the class of 2026. We are taking good care of each other and especially supporting our community members in need. 

We hope you are finding – or making – time for whatever you need this summer.

We’re excited to share a few new things today and always happy to be reminding you of “things to do.”

REMINDERS

  • Upcoming deadlines:
    • July 16: Academic Interest Form (in DartHub) – view or update your area of academic interest. There is nothing binding about this selection.
    • July 19: complete the computer survey while reviewing Dartmouth’s computer requirements (access through DartHub).
    • July 19: if you choose to purchase a computer from Dartmouth, so it’s ready when you arrive – you can start that process through DartHub.
  • Don’t wait until the last minute – do this as soon as you can: Upload your student ID photo! You can’t get your Dartmouth ID when you arrive if you have not submitted a photo.
    • You will need your ID to pick up packages, enter your residence hall, and eat in our dining halls.
    • Please contact Dartmouth Card if you have any concerns about being able to complete this task before arrival.
       

UPDATE

  • Many of you received Explore, Engage, Excel in the mail last week - or will be receiving it soon! The Undergraduate Deans Office will also be emailing this “Introduction to Academics at Dartmouth” as a PDF to all incoming students soon! Enjoy exploring!
  • Today (Sunday, July 14), a new tile will appear in DartHub bringing you to the Student Technology Introduction portal so you can get started with the technology (including software) you’ll need at Dartmouth.
    • If you don’t have the computer you will use at Dartmouth or reliable internet – or if there is anything else that makes accessing these materials challenging – don’t worry! There will be time during New Student Orientation to do everything you need.
    • There will be support sessions with Information, Technology and Consulting (ITC) during New Student Orientation – we’ll make sure you know all about them!
  • In addition to the new Student Technology Introduction tile in DartHub, we’ve also launched a new Canvas module introducing you to Information Technology at Dartmouth. Review when you have a chance!
  • Speaking of Canvas: here is information about downloading Canvas on your phone:
  • For those of you who registered for First-Year Trips: take a look at their Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) when you get a chance. You can expect to receive your Trip assignment and packing list after July 30. 
    • Reminder: if you did not register for First-Year Trips, your arrival/move-in date is Sunday, September 8 – unless you are a pre-season athlete or participating in a pre-Orientation program.
       

LOOKING FORWARD

  • Watch for an email on Monday (July 15) from writing.placement@dartmouth.edu with your First-Year Writing placement recommendation. 
    • Deadline to request different placement = July 22 at 11:59 p.m. ET.
  • And we will soon be emailing our awesome Snapshots that provide a “whirlwind tour” of academic departments and programs at Dartmouth. We can’t wait to share these with you!

Sending all best thoughts until next time. Take good care!

top

July 13, 2024: Your Class, Your Words Opt Out (using your Admission Essay)

Greetings from New Student Orientation!

We would like to consider using a short excerpt from your Admission Essay for Your Class, Your Words: Class of 2028.

Your Class, Your Words is a program composed entirely of quotations taken from the admission essays of your incoming class, traditionally performed for you by upper-level students. This program, held during New Student Orientation, is designed to celebrate the individual experiences and identities you all bring to Dartmouth.

If you do not want your essay to be considered for inclusion in this project please click here: OPT OUT.

Before you do this, please know that all excerpts and quotations will be used anonymously, all personal identifiers will be removed, and your name will not be mentioned. Only *you* will know that the words spoken are yours!

If you agree that a quotation from your essay could be used, you do not have to respond to this request.

We’d appreciate hearing from you by 11:59 p.m. ET on Monday, August 5.

We look forward to talking again soon.

top

WEEKLY UPDATE - 07.06.24

Hello incoming students!

Collecting some things to help you stay on track:

REMINDERS

  • If you choose to participate in a First-Year Trip, your registration materials are due Tuesday, July 9 at 11:59 p.m. ET.
    • It is totally okay if you choose to not participate or are unable to participate in a First-Year Trip – in that case, your arrival/move-in date will be Sunday, September 8, unless you are participating in pre-Orientation programs or pre-season athletics in which case your arrival information will be communicated by your program/Athletics.
    • Registration is not first-come first-served – all registrations submitted by the deadline of Tuesday, July 9 at 11:59 p.m. ET. will be considered equally.
    • If you choose to participate in First-Year Trips, you will receive your trip assignment and packing list after July 30.
  • A few important deadlines are coming up!
    • July 16: Academic Interest Form – view or update your area of academic interest. There is nothing binding about this selection.
    • July 19: review Dartmouth’s computer requirements and complete the computer survey (access both through DartHub).
      • If you choose to purchase a computer from Dartmouth, make sure to do that by July 19 so it’s ready when you arrive.

UPDATES

  • On July 7 (tomorrow!), a new tile will appear in DartHub: Core Values. This task asks you to review our Standards of Conduct, Academic Honor Policy, and Sources and Citations at Dartmouth.
    • You will be required to indicate that you have read all these important resources and understand the content.
  • (Not really an update, we just want to emphasize!) Upload your student ID photo as soon as possible so it’s ready for you when you arrive on campus. Thank you!
  • We recently shared this list of helpful websites with your families/supporters - these websites will be useful to you as well!

LOOKING FORWARD

  • Watch for an awesome publication from the Undergraduate Deans Office in support of your exploration of the curriculum – coming soon. This guide will start your summer journey of questioning and exploring, as you prepare for course election during New Student Orientation.
  • Many other wonderful resources are headed your way over the next few weeks – we are absolutely “looking forward” to sharing them with you!
  • And stay tuned for more modules launching in the New Student Orientation Canvas course!

Talk again next week – take good care and stay well.

top

June 29, 2024: Greetings from New Student Orientation - helpful websites - 06.29.24

Hello and hope you are well – happy almost-July!

As you support your student through the pre-arrival process by empowering them to complete their pre-arrival tasks on their own and ask for help as needed, we hope you are also getting to know Dartmouth. 

For your awareness, we’ve curated a list of helpful websites and resources below. We’ll also post these on the New Student Orientation website.

ACADEMIC CALENDAR

  • The Office of the Registrar (“Registrar” for short) provides services for students in the areas of academic policy, enrollment, and course information. Their Calendars webpage is incredibly useful for finding dates, deadlines, term breaks, etc. 
    Click on the specific Term Calendar for very helpful levels of detail. (We use it every day!)
     

HOUSING AND DINING

  • The Office of Residential Life coordinates student housing assignments and provides a variety of learning opportunities that promote students’ academic endeavors and encourage growth and development. Upon receiving their housing assignment from Dartmouth, students will become a member of one of six House Communities.
    The Undergraduate Housing tab in the top menu on their website is super helpful.
    Visit the About Housing section to learn more about Undergraduate Housing at Dartmouth. In particular – the Dates & Deadlines page with residence hall opening and closing dates will come in very handy 
     
  • Residential Operations maintains student residences and manages on-campus storage options.
     
  • Dartmouth Dining provides a lovely overview with its Quick Dining Facts. 
    Click on the Inclusive Dining tab in the top menu of their website for information on Kosher and Halal Dining; food allergies and restrictions; and vegan and vegetarian dining. 
    Visit the First-Year dining page for information on your student’s dining plan.
     

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

  • Student Accessibility Services (SAS) is the office that works with students, faculty, staff, and the campus administration to ensure that the programs, services, and activities of Dartmouth College are accessible to, and usable by, students with disabilities. If your student needs these services, they should be sure to contact SAS. 
    In particular, the Incoming Class webpage will be helpful for your student if they need to apply for accommodations or services.
  • The Undergraduate Deans Office (UDO) provides holistic academic and personal advising for undergraduates. Students are assigned an undergraduate dean who will work with them from their arrival on campus until their graduation. Your student will receive an introductory email from their undergraduate dean in mid-August. The Undergraduate Deans Office also includes the Health Professions Program, Dartmouth’s specialized advising program for students considering careers in the health professions. 
  • A reminder that we regularly update our Communication page with the emails we send students. And in case you haven’t seen it yet, we also have a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page on the Orientation website.

We look forward to connecting again about your student’s summer transition highlights. In the meantime, we wish you ease through these busy months of preparation. 

Take good care – 

top

WEEKLY UPDATE - 06.28.24

Happy almost July! Wishing you a good month ahead (always!).

FYI: Dartmouth is CLOSED on Thursday, July 4 and Friday, July 5. New Student Orientation will also be closed on Wednesday, July 3. 

Lots of catching up to do:

REMINDERS

  • Deadline for the Humanities 1 and 2 Application (if you choose to apply) = June 29 at 11:59 p.m. ET. Access via DartHub.
    • All students are invited, but not required, to apply.
  • Deadline for Health Service Requirements = June 30. You’ll find everything on DartHub!
  • Deadline for First-Year Trips registration (if you choose to participate) = July 9 at 11:59 p.m. ET. More information is below in the UPDATES section.
  • Hopefully you’ve seen our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on the New Student Orientation website. If not – take a look. And let us know if there are questions we’ve missed!!  

UPDATES

  • We recently published two awesome new modules in Canvas - Dartmouth Resources and Self-Care and Wellbeing, both of which will introduce you to just a few of the many resources available to support you and your transition to Dartmouth. Make sure to check them out!
  • First-Year Trips emailed registration materials on Monday, June 24. If you choose to participate in a First-Year Trip, your registration is due July 9 at 11:59 p.m. ET.
    • It is totally okay if you choose to not participate or are unable to participate in a First-Year Trip – in that case, your arrival/move-in date will be Sunday, September 8, unless you are participating in pre-Orientation programs or pre-season athletics in which case your arrival information will be communicated by your program/Athletics.
    • Registration is not first-come first-served – all registrations submitted by the deadline of Tuesday, July 9 at 11:59 p.m. ET will be considered equally.
    • If you choose to participate in First-Year Trips, you will receive your trip assignment and packing list after July 27.  

LOOKING FORWARD

  • July will be busy with additional tasks, “to-do’s,” and new resources to explore. We’ll talk more in the next Weekly Update about what to expect and when!  

Please make time for yourself and your wellbeing this summer. Sending best wishes and talk again soon!

top

WEEKLY UPDATE - 06.22.24

Happy day to you all. We hope you’re finding some rest and restoration during these summer weeks. What’s happening? Let’s see …

REMINDERS

  • Upcoming deadlines for Health Service Requirements: you’ll find everything in DartHub!
    • Health and Immunizations deadline = June 30
    • Insurance Waiver deadline = June 30
    • Athletic Clearance (if applicable) deadline = June 30
  • For those who choose to apply: upcoming deadline for Humanities 1 and 2 Application (access via DartHub):
    • All students are invited, but are not required, to apply.
    • Humanities 1 and 2 is a selective, interdisciplinary, two-term sequence for up to one hundred first-year students.
    • Deadline = June 29 at 11:59 p.m. ET

UPDATE

  • Bravo on completing your Directed Self-Placement Process for First-Year Writing!
    • You will receive your placement recommendation on July 15.
    • Deadline to request different placement is July 22.
  • Watch your email for First-Year Trip registration materials arriving early next week (the week of June 24)!
    • And remember that it is totally okay if you choose to not participate or are unable to participate in a First-Year Trip – in that case, your arrival/move-in date will be September 8, unless you are participating in pre-Orientation programs or pre-season athletics in which case your arrival information will be communicated by your program/team.

LOOKING FORWARD

  • The Undergraduate Deans Office has prepared a fun and helpful guide to academics and course exploration that will be mailed to all domestic students in early July.
    • Please make sure your mailing address is correct in DartHub!
    • FYI: international students will receive an electronic copy via email and a physical copy upon arrival to Dartmouth.
  • Next week we’ll launch two new modules on the NSO Canvas site – Self-Care and Wellbeing and Dartmouth Resources, both of which will introduce you to just a few of the many resources available to support you and your transition to Dartmouth! Stay tuned!

We’ll talk again very soon – take good care and stay well.

WEEKLY UPDATE - 06.12.24

Hello Class of 2028!

We apologize for missing an Update last week, but we were busy with Commencement and all the related celebrations and culminations. It was a wonderful whirlwind – now we are ready to focus on YOU!

To catch up and think ahead:

REMINDERS

  • If you haven’t already completed your online housing application in the Residential Life Housing Star Portal, you must by Friday, June 14 at 9:00 a.m. ET. You can access this process through DartHub.
  • And make sure you complete your Directed Self-Placement Process for First-Year Writing by June 21 at 11:59 p.m. ET. You can access the Writing Directed Self-Placement Canvas Site through DartHub.
    • Placement recommendation will be sent via email July 15.
    • Deadline to request different placement via email is July 22.
  • The June 30 deadline for your Health Service Requirements is also coming soon – access through DartHub.

UPDATE

  • On June 14, a new tile in DartHub will become available where you must upload your photo for your DartCard (student ID) - deadline is August 1.
    • A legal form of identification (ID) is required when uploading your student photo.
    • Please reach out to Dartmouth.Card@Dartmouth.edu for assistance.
  • Beginning June 15, the Standardized Test Scores tile in DartHub will be available. Scores must be received by September 9 to be considered for course election. Please visit Instructions and Checklist for more information.
  • And (one more!) new DartHub tile will become available on June 18: Computer Requirements and, if applicable, Ordering Information.
    • If you choose to order a computer from Dartmouth, the deadline is July 19, 2024.
    • As always, we are available for questions and concerns.

LOOKING FORWARD

  • We will soon have updates to the New Student Orientation Canvas site, including what to expect this summer in support of your arrival in the Fall – we are excited to keep connecting!
  • Registration materials for First-Year Trips will arrive in your Dartmouth email near the end of June. We’ll make sure you know to watch for that email.
    • Please note: registration is NOT first-come first-served - all registrations will be considered equally.

Wishing you well – take good care and talk again soon.

top

WEEKLY UPDATE - 05.31.24

Hello great Class of 2028! Hope you are doing well. We write today with a few reminders, as deadlines approach:

REMINDERS

  • Complete your Residential Life Housing Star Portal by June 14 at 9:00 a.m. ET.
    • You can access this process through DartHub.
  • Pay attention to deadlines as you keep working through the Instructions and Checklist and DartHub. Be in touch with us if you have any questions or concerns!
  • For your information! If you think you are the target of a phishing attempt or receive a suspicious email (even if you are not sure about it!) please report it to phishing@dartmouth.edu. Check out the Phishing FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions).

UPDATE

  • Earlier this week, we welcomed you all to the New Student Orientation Canvas site via email. We’re excited to see how many of you have accepted the invitation - we’ll keep you posted as we add modules and resources in the coming weeks.
    • Canvas is Dartmouth’s learning management system; you will use Canvas throughout New Student Orientation and for your classes as well.
    • If you haven’t used Canvas or a tool like this before, have no fear: there will be time throughout the summer (and during Orientation) to explore and learn.
  • And speaking of Canvas: on June 1, you will receive information about the Canvas site for the Directed Self-Placement Process for First-Year Writing. Don’t forget to set aside time to complete this task, due by June 21 at 11:59 p.m. ET.
  • You can expect to receive registration materials for First-Year Trips near the end of June. We’ll keep you posted so you know to watch for that email.

LOOKING FORWARD

  • We wish you meaningful celebrations of your milestones and all you’ve accomplished, as you conclude your high school and secondary school education!
  • And we apologize in advance for missing an Update next week, but we are looking forward to Commencement and all the related celebrations and culminations for the great Class of 2024. We’ll catch up afterwards!

Until we talk again, which will be soon – take good care.

top

WEEKLY UPDATE - 05.24.24

Hello great Class of 2028!

As we move through the summer, we plan to finish most weeks with a quick email to stay connected and keep you updated on important things to know as you prepare to join the Dartmouth community.

Although we are currently very busy with Commencement for the Class of 2024, please reach out if you have any questions or concerns; we are always here for you! We will continue to communicate what you need to know as soon as we can; you will all receive this information from us at the same time and we will make sure you do not miss anything important! And now, we want to share a few reminders and things to do.

REMINDERS

  • Please complete your Residential Life Housing Application (which can be accessed through the Residential Life Housing Star Portal tile in DartHub) by Friday, June 14 at 9:00 a.m. ET.
  • Also, we will post all emails from New Student Orientation on our website. Save this page, and feel free to share with families or supporters who may be interested in reading this information as well.

UPDATES

  • Watch for an invitation to the New Student Orientation Canvas site next week! Canvas is Dartmouth’s learning management system; you will use Canvas throughout New Student Orientation and for your classes as well. If you haven’t used Canvas or a tool like this before, have no fear: there will be time throughout the summer (and during Orientation) to explore and learn.
  • Speaking of Canvas: on June 1, you will receive an invitation to a different Canvas site for the Directed Self-Placement Process for First-Year Writing. This required task takes some time, so plan accordingly to get it completed.

LOOKING FORWARD

  • Keep moving through the Instructions and Checklist and DartHub – paying attention to deadlines – and be in touch with us if you have any questions or concerns!

For those of you finishing secondary or high school, please know that we are sending our best wishes and congratulations as you wrap up your school year.

And to all of you, we hope that you find time to celebrate all that you’ve accomplished with pride. Take care – we will talk again soon!

top

greetings from new student orientation

To Families and Supporters of the Class of 2028:

Congratulations to you and your student on their many milestones and all they have accomplished. We are excited to meet them!

Last week, we began communicating directly to the Class of 2028 via their Dartmouth email and introduced a step-by-step series of tasks to help them prepare to join our community. We are here to support them along the way.

The New Student Orientation website will be updated throughout the summer, so you and your student should check it regularly. Here are some specific pages within that website you may find helpful:

We encourage you to help prepare your student for a more independent experience and empower them to complete tasks on their own. This will help them learn to ask for help as needed and begin to understand college-level expectations. We invite you to use the checklist as a guide to prompt your student to act on different items as they come due but allow them agency and autonomy as they learn important skills during this pre-arrival process.

In addition to New Student Orientation, the Undergraduate Deans Office will work closely with new students as they navigate the transition from high school to college – in particular, by advising on exploring Dartmouth’s curricular offerings and electing first term courses.

We look forward to welcoming the Class of 2028 to the Dartmouth community.

Take care and we will talk again soon!

top

Introducing DartHub Pre-Arrival

Greetings, Class of 2028!

You can begin to use DartHub Pre-Arrival to review the Instructions and Checklist of things to do and deadlines to meet. 

To get started, please follow the instructions below to access DartHub Pre-Arrival:

  • Use a web browser to go to http://PreArrival.dartmouth.edu.
  • Login using your Dartmouth ID (also known as NetID) and password – and Duo two-factor authentication if prompted – created in the “set up your account” process. 
    • You should have received an email from Dartmouth ITC (Information, Technology and Consulting – account-no-reply@dartmouth.edu) with your Dartmouth ID (NetID) and instructions for the setup of your account.
  • Read and agree to the ‘Terms of Usage’ by clicking Continue.
  • You are now in DartHub Pre-Arrival at the Recommended Order portion of the Checklist page.
  • The first item on the list is Instructions and Checklist for Class of 2028: Prior to Engaging in Dartmouth Programs. This document includes detailed instructions and a chart you can use to keep track of your submissions.
  • Use the Checklist in "Recommended Order" on DartHub Pre-Arrival and the Instructions and Checklist document as your guides; stick with the categories and work through the “tiles/tasks”  in each category. Most forms you need to complete this summer will be available through DartHub.
    While at Dartmouth, you will access DartHub frequently to elect courses, check-in for each term, view grade reports, update emergency contacts, etc.

It is imperative that you meet the deadlines indicated on DartHub Pre-Arrival. Don’t forget to use the chart on the Checklist in the Start Here category. 

If you are unable to access a particular web form, please contact the office listed on the Instructions and Checklist document. For general questions, contact the Undergraduate Deans Office (603.646.2243 or undergraduate.deans.office@dartmouth.edu).

You can always find updates on the New Student Orientation webpage: http://www.dartmouth.edu/orientation/. 

We’ll certainly talk again soon – take good care.

top

May 15, 2024: Dartmouth: welcome and reminder to set up your Dartmouth email!

Hello again, Class of 2028!

By now, you should have received an email from Dartmouth ITC (Information, Technology and Consulting) with instructions to set up your Dartmouth email account. Most of you have already done so. For those of you who haven’t yet activated your account, please follow those instructions right now so you won’t miss any critical College communication.

Please note: this is the last email that will be sent to your applicant (non-Dartmouth) email address; moving forward, all email communication will travel via your Dartmouth email address.

If you didn’t receive a message from Dartmouth ITC or do not have regular online access, please go to dartgo.org/account-help to request help or email help@dartmouth.edu.

Since much of our communication will be sent by email, we want to be sure you’re connected.

Housing information will be sent to your Dartmouth email account tomorrow (Thursday, May 16). 

We hope you’ve seen the arrival/move-in information and Frequently Asked Questions on the New Student Orientation page (http://dartmouth.edu/orientation). Continue to monitor this page for updates!

Please do be in touch with any concerns. We are excited to get to know you!

top

May 13, 2024: Dartmouth: watch for email to set up your Dartmouth account

Welcome, Class of 2028!

We are so glad to have the chance to say hello. We have been thinking of you and look forward to creating your first community connections over the next few weeks. You will hear from us often as we make sure you have the information you need to start your Dartmouth journey.

Beginning today (Monday) and continuing through tomorrow (Tuesday), each of you will receive an email inviting you to set up your Dartmouth account from Dartmouth ITC (our Information, Technology and Consulting team): “Dartmouth ITC <account-no-reply@dartmouth.edu>.” It will be sent to the email address you provided Admissions.

The release of this “set up your Dartmouth account” email is staggered, so don’t worry if you have not received it yet. It will take time to reach all of you so please be patient!

When setting up your two-factor authentication with Duo as instructed, we strongly recommend that you use a phone number you will be able to access throughout the summer and/or download the Duo mobile app.

Please note: Your Dartmouth email is an official means for communication at Dartmouth College. The College sends important communications to students via this email and expects that students will read those communications – and respond if necessary – in a timely fashion. Students are expected to check this email regularly. Certain messages may be time-sensitive and may require you to monitor email on a more frequent basis.

Take care! We’ll talk to you soon – and we’re excited to get to know you!

top