Welcome to North Park!
Threshold New Student Orientation is a long standing North Park tradition with the purpose of welcoming students, families, and guests to our campus and community. We believe orientation plays an important role in marking the beginning of your academic journey at North Park University. As you cross the threshold into this collegiate experience, it is our hope you have opportunities to connect with people and identify resources to take with you on this college journey.
This year’s Threshold schedule is designed to prioritize your safety alongside engaging and fun activities, which let you meet other new students, student leaders, faculty, and staff. Learn more about how we are preparing for your arrival.
All incoming students are required to participate in Threshold, North Park’s orientation program, January 13–14. Don’t forget to RSVP by Sunday, January 8.
Threshold Schedule
Subject to change
Friday, January 13
9:30–11:00 a.m.: Welcome Table Check-In for all
Resident Students: You must check in at the Welcome Tent before going to your assigned living space. Check in, get ID, and then move into residence halls.
11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.: Lunch available in Magnuson Dining Hall
Commuter Students: North Park’s commuter students are an integral part of our campus community. Use this time to get to know your future classmates and the campus, and prepare for a great year at North Park. Commuter students check-in, get ID, and complete any needed paperwork, then head over to the library
11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.: Commuter Student Lunch ‘n’ Learn – bring laptop/tablet if possible.
1:00–3:00 p.m.: Life at North Park: Introductions to different offices on campus – bring laptop/tablet if possible
3:30–4:30 p.m.: Campus Tour (resident students only)
7:30–8:30 p.m.: Residence Life Meetings (resident students only)
Saturday, January 14
7:30–9:30 a.m.: Dining Hall Open for Breakfast
11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.: Local Lunch: Come and try one of the delicious lunch locations local to Albany Park
12:30 p.m.: City Excursion: Visit the Art Institute
First-Year Students
North Park’s orientation program, Threshold, flows seamlessly into our First Year Experience, to make your transition to North Park as smooth as possible. Learn more about these programs and how they can help you get ready for a great first year, whether you’re a first-year, transfer, resident, or commuter student.
Be sure to explore special first-year program options to get connected on campus.
Transfer Students
We’re so glad you have chosen to make North Park your home for the next few years. You can find answers to your transfer student-specific questions using the categories below. As you are making your transition, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our transfer advisors for any assistance you need in understanding your Transfer Credit Evaluation, the registration process, or what life is like at North Park.
International Students
International Student Orientation will take place both online and in-person. Students will receive a pre-arrival online orientation (you will receive the link via email over the summer) to be completed at your own pace. All international students will also be required to attend in-person orientation, August 23–25. Check your North Park email for more details about International Student Orientation. All undergraduate international students should also plan to participate in Threshold.
Commuter Student Resources
North Park’s Office of Student Activities and the Commuter Student Association work together to connect you to campus resources and the North Park community. We want you to feel at home while you’re at North Park. Check out the resources below to find answers to your questions and how to get connected.
Families and Guests
Transitioning to college isn’t just for students: parents and families have some adjusting to do, as well. These resources are designed to help your whole family know what to expect at orientation, and how they can be involved throughout the academic year.