Building connections and confidence at CMU

For incoming students, orientation is often the first glimpse into life as a Central Michigan University student. In the College of Business Administration, orientation is designed to help students feel welcomed, connected and prepared as they begin their academic journey.

"When students come to the College of Business for orientation, they are welcomed by so many caring faculty and staff," said Karen Arthur, director of Business Student Services. Through guided experiences in Grawn Hall, students have the opportunity to explore spaces where they will learn, collaborate and grow throughout their time at CMU.

Orientation goes beyond course registration. Students connect with academic advisors, learn about campus resources and discover the many opportunities available within the College of Business. From student organizations and leadership programs to professional development opportunities, orientation provides an introduction to the experiences that can help shape their college careers.

"I think orientation is a perfect first step to students' life on campus," said Anthony Niemiec, the assistant director of external relations and student services in the HUB. "Orientation is all about meeting new friends, envisioning what their first semester can and will look like, and meeting faculty and staff who are here to help them."

Throughout the day, current student mentors play an important role in helping incoming students feel comfortable and supported. Mentors share their own experiences, answer questions and help students navigate common concerns about starting college. These interactions help students recognize that they are joining a community that is invested in their success.

According to Arthur, orientation demonstrates one of CMU's greatest strengths: a campus that offers a wide variety of opportunities while maintaining a close-knit, supportive environment. Students spend time getting to know their peers and begin building relationships that can carry into their first semester and beyond.

For many students, orientation also provides an exciting preview of the future. As the first incoming class to experience CMU's Central Career Guarantee, students are introduced to an opt-in program that encourages them to take an active role in preparing for their careers through advising, career planning and experiential learning opportunities.

Faculty and staff agree that one of the most rewarding parts of orientation is watching students begin their transition to college. For Niemiec, who joined the College of Business Administration after teaching and coaching at H.H. Dow High School in Midland, that experience has been especially meaningful.

"Personally, my favorite memory has been seeing all of my former H.H. Dow High students entering the CBA," he said. "It's been so great to reconnect with them and I am so excited to see them thrive in our welcoming and inclusive environment."

This year's orientation season has also highlighted the strong sense of teamwork within the College of Business Administration. Arthur recalled a day when students arrived soaked after getting caught in a torrential downpour. Faculty and staff quickly gathered extra T-shirts and ponchos to ensure students felt comfortable and cared for throughout the day.

Whether through meaningful conversations, helpful guidance or simple acts of kindness, orientation reflects the commitment of the College of Business Administration to helping students feel supported from day one. As incoming students prepare to return in the fall, they can do so knowing they are joining a community dedicated to their growth, success and future.