New Student Orientation

The Wright Place to Be is Always FSC
August 22-24, 2026

The Office of New Student and Family Programs takes a student-centered approach to the transition experience while introducing incoming families to all aspects of life at Florida Southern College. By fostering relationships, we connect families to the FSC community and prepare students to pursue academic and personal growth opportunities.

Participation is required for all entering students, and parents are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Check-In Dates

International Students

Friday, August 21

All Commuters

Friday, August 21

Residential Students - New and Transfer

Saturday, August 22

Please check the portal for your specific check-in time

My orientation experience at Florida Southern far exceeded my expectations as an incoming freshman. Placed with an orientation leader and a group that were part of my major, I immediately found common interest and felt connected to the students around me. The amount of activities and events offered for students is abundant which makes it incredibly easy to meld into the campus community. So grateful to the orientation leaders for all they do!

Tucker Claremont

Class of 2029

Getting Ready for College Life

College Success Webinar Series

Presented by the FSC Counseling Center Team, these sessions are designed to support your transition and equip you with the tools for a confident, successful start to college.

Check back later for 2026 dates

Orientation, Arrival, Check-in, and Move-in Made Easy

This webinar walks you through everything you need to know before arriving on campus. We’ll help you feel prepared and excited for what’s ahead.

Check back later for 2026 dates

Finalize Your Enrollment

Please make sure to complete all of your enrollment to-dos. You can find a list of outstanding items on your Student Status Page. Ensuring all tasks are completed before New Student Orientation is essential to a successful start.

Status Page

Get Connected on ZeeMee

Don’t wait until you get to campus to get involved. ZeeMee, our social platform, connects you with old and new Mocs. Ask questions about life on campus, participate in monthly live events, and win FSC swag while making friends with classmates!

Download ZeeMee

Review the Pre-Orientation Course

FSC’s self-paced course, “Your Southern Journey,” will introduce you to Florida Southern and prepare you to maximize your Orientation experience. Earn badges while learning about your college home.

The Pre-Orientation course will be available on Canvas June 22.

Meet Your Orientation Leaders

Orientation Leaders are experienced upper-level students dedicated to helping you navigate and connect with your new community. Throughout the summer and during Orientation, they will provide valuable tips, reminders, and support while answering any questions you may have. Keep an eye out for a welcome message from your Orientation Leader during the week of June 22.

Getting Involved on Campus

Getting involved is easier than you think. There are hundreds of ways to pursue your passions and put your education into action.

Explore Campus Life

Making Your Travel Plans

Families

We look forward to meeting you at Fall Orientation. While families are not required to attend Orientation, we invite you to join your student on campus. You are welcome to assist with move-in and participate in family programming on Saturday and Sunday.

Accommodations

Explore our curated list of hotel options, offering a diverse range in price and distance from campus. Remember to mention Florida Southern when securing your reservations.

Local Accommodations

Directions to Campus

Florida Southern is located approximately six miles from Interstate 4 in the heart of Lakeland, on the shore of the beautiful Lake Hollingsworth. For all residential students, please look for exact check-in date/time/directions on the portal on August 3.

Get Directions

About Lakeland

One of the fastest-growing cities in the country, Lakeland offers an ideal setting for year-round outdoor activities and a diverse range of entertainment and employment options.

Visit Lakeland

Living on Campus

Housing Form

Planning to live on campus? Once you submit your enrollment deposit, you'll complete the Housing Form and share your room type and building preferences.

Student Housing

Finding Your Roommate

You’ll also be invited to create a profile in My College Roomie, our roommate matching platform, where you can explore potential matches and even request a specific roommate.

Learn How

Check-In Appointments

For all residential students, you’ll be assigned a personal check-in time and location based on your room assignment. Look for arrival information on the FSC Portal on August 3.

FSC Portal

Collegeboxes Ship to School Service

Let us take the hassle out of your freshman move. With Collegeboxes’ Ship to School service, we handle everything —from packing to delivery—straight to your student’s dorm or apartment. Parents can rest easy knowing their student’s belongings will arrive safely, on time, and ready for move-in day. Save time, reduce stress, and make your student’s transition to college smoother than ever!

Collegeboxes