Getting Prepared at Smith: Pre-Orientation Programs

Smith College offers several pre-orientation onboarding programs. Each cohort program is designed to provide new students with the additional support and resources they need to navigate life at Smith. These programs are designed for new students with the intention of building relationships with peers who share similar identities or interests. In Getting Prepared at Smith (GPS), students will meet other Smith students, learn about academic and campus life at Smith, and connect with faculty and professional staff who are invested in their success.

Each cohort program will offer its own dedicated workshops to support learning in a small group setting. In addition, each cohort program will connect with the other cohort programs, offering students a variety of ways to meet other new students at Smith. GPS is about navigating Smith, making connections, and finding your way.

General Information

Central Check-In

Participants in GPS must go to Central Check-In even though they arrive early.

Learn more about Central Check-In

Participation Eligibility

New students may only participate in ONE pre-orientation program.

Please note: All participants must still participate in the general Orientation program in its entirety.

International Students Pre-Orientation

Program Dates

August 27–September 2, 2026

About

ISP is a required program for any incoming international students utilizing a Smith College-sponsored visa. Other non-citizen students, or students who have U.S. citizenship or U.S. permanent residency who have grown up abroad and feel it would be a beneficial program to attend are also welcome.

Registration

Registration is required for ISP. Please visit the International Students and Scholars Office’s ISP page for a link and instructions.

Contact

Contact the ISSO at 413-585-7598 or interstu@smith.edu with any questions about ISP.

Bridge Pre-Orientation

Program Dates

August 29–September 2, 2026

About

Begun in 1970 as a program for African American students entering Smith, Bridge now welcomes first-year students who demonstrate a commitment to creating and maintaining culturally inclusive communities. This pre-orientation program gives new students a chance to find mentors, friends, resources, and a community.

Attendance

Students admitted to the program are expected to attend all sessions and participate fully. Those unable to attend should contact the assistant director of Multicultural Affairs, Cai Sherley, at csherley@smith.edu as soon as possible so another student can take their place.

Application

An application is required to attend the Bridge Pre-Orientation. New first-year students will receive information about applying for Bridge directly via their Smith email address in May.

Contact

Contact the Office of Multicultural Affairs at 413-585-4947 or oma@smith.edu with any questions about Bridge.

First Generation and Low-Income (FGLI) Student Pre-Orientation

Program Dates

August 29–September 2, 2026.

About

First generation (“first gen”) students are those who are first in their families to attend a four-year college, and low-income students are those whose expected family contributions to their college education are low relative to their peers. This program supports first gen and low-income students in their transition to college life by providing opportunities to connect with other students and families who share their experiences. Learn more on the First Generation and Low-Income Students resources page.

Attendance

Students admitted to the program are expected to attend all sessions and participate fully. Those unable to attend should contact the program director as soon as possible so another student can take their place.

Registration

Registration is required to attend the First Gen and Low-Income Pre-Orientation. Students who are identified as first gen or low-income during the admission process will receive a link to the registration form directly via their Smith email account in late May. If you have questions about your eligibility, please reach out to fgli@smith.edu

Contact

Contact the First Gen and Low-Income Coordinator at fgli@smith.edu with any questions about First Gen and Low-Income Pre-Orientation.

Pre-Season Athletics

Program Dates

Mid-August–beginning of classes

About

Students who participate in fall sports are asked to come to campus early for pre-season training. Please check with head coaches for additional information.

Registration

There is no registration for pre-season athletics. Eligible students will be contacted by their coach with arrival information.

Contact

Contact the Associate Athletic Director at jduff@smith.edu or reach out to your sport’s head coach with questions about Pre-Season Athletics.