Pre-Orientation Programs

Smith College offers a number of pre-orientation programs to entering students. Descriptions, eligibility criteria, and registration instructions are detailed below.

General Information

Central Check-In

Participants in Bridge, First Generation Pre-Orientation, and Pre-Season Athletics must go to Central Check-In even though they arrive early. Participants in International Students Pre-Orientation are not required to go to Central Check-In but are encouraged to attend to take full advantage of all resources available to them.

Learn more about Central Check-In

Participation Eligibility

Due to the overlap in program dates, new students can 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

To be announced.

About

ISP is a required program this year for any incoming international students utilizing a college-sponsored visa. 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 27–September 1, 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 program director 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

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

Various

About

Students who participate in certain fall sports may be asked to come to campus early for pre-season training.

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.