Family Orientation - FAQs

• When is Family Orientation?
  Family Orientation is offered on the first day of each freshman orientation session. Most family members attend the session offered during the orientation session for which their student registers, though you may attend any of the Family Orientation sessions.
• What is the purpose of Family Orientation?
  The activities are designed to allow family members the opportunity to attend programs specifically for them as well as to allow opportunities for students and family members to meet for an evening meal. Upon your arrival to campus for Family Orientation, you will be provided with specific locations for the events of the day. We encourage family members and students to make specific meeting arrangements prior to splitting up for the day's activities, as the student schedule will not overlap with the Family Orientation schedule until the Orientation Barbecue at 5 p.m. You may find it necessary to choose a specific time and place to meet due to the large amount of people attending the barbecue.
• What is the fee for Family Orientation?
  The Family Orientation fee is $25 per person. The Family Orientation fee is applicable to guests 17 and older.
• Why is there a fee for Family Orientation?
  Admission to Family Orientation covers room rentals, technology rentals and fees, student staff salaries, publications, a light breakfast and the Orientation Barbecue. The Family Orientation is self-supporting and fees are designed to cover the costs of the program.
• What is included in the Orientation Barbecue?
  Barbecue plate includes mesquite-smoked beef brisket, all beef sausage and hand-basted turkey served with potato salad, cole slaw, pinto ranch beans, homemade sauce, jalapenos, pickles, onions, wheat or white bread, water, lemonade and ice tea.
  
  Vegetarian plate includes smoked lemon pepper vegetable kabobs, baked potato casserole, fresh fruit salad, jalapeño cornbread casserole, water, lemonade and ice tea.
  
  Children's barbecue wristband(s) (16 years-of-age and younger) are available for $8 per plate. Wristband(s) may be purchased through www.utorientation.com.
• Where do I register for Family Orientation?
  If you wish to attend Family Orientation, your registration must be completed at www.utorientation.com. Payment must be received one week prior to the start of your orientation session. On-site registration will be available. Cash or check will only be accepted for on-site registrations. There are no refunds.
• How do I get my registration packet?
  Pre-paid registration packet(s) and individual BBQ wristband(s) will be available for pick up at the Family Orientation Check-in 8-10 a.m. at the Texas Union Building (UNB), Ballroom 3.202.
• What should I bring to the Family Orientation?
  Comfortable walking shoes, casual attire, umbrella and/or raincoat (if necessary) and questions regarding the university.
• Where should I park?
  Parking is available for students and family members in the Brazos Garage (BRG), located near Jester Center at the rate of $25 for the four days, three nights, and includes unlimited in/out privileges. There is also a daily rate available on the first day of orientation. Daily parking is offered at a flat rate of $9 with unlimited in/out privileges. Subsequent days are charged at a maximum rate of $9 per ticket pulled. Look for Orientation Advisors to direct you from Jester Center to Family Orientation Check-In in the Texas Union Building (UNB), Ballroom 3.202 .
• How do I contact my student?
  The Jester Center rooms do not have telephones. A message may be left for your student by calling our Information Desk (the "Fishbowl") at 512-471-1652. This telephone number is used by orientation staff from June 10 - July 17, 2008. Please recognize that students check messages at their own discretion except in the case of an emergency, and may not return your telephone call immediately.