Summer Orientation Sessions
Is SOS mandatory?
Yes! We require that all new traditional-age first-year students attend SOS. We’ve designed the program so that you can work on your class schedule, learn more about Marymount, and meet new people. You absolutely need to attend one of these sessions.
What should I bring to SOS?
- Casual clothes, personal toiletries, alarm clock (pillows, bed linens and towels are provided).
- A sweater or sweatshirt - air conditioning can be cold.
- An umbrella or rain jacket, since summer weather can be very unpredictable.
- Completed medical form with immunization record, if you have not already sent it to the Student Health Center.
Where can my parents or family stay while we're attending SOS?
While students stay on campus during Summer Orientation Sessions, family members may stay in nearby hotels. See a
list of area hotels.
Are meals provided for students and parents during SOS?
During the first day of SOS, students will be provided with a continental breakfast, lunch and dinner during the day and a variety of snacks during later activities. On the second day, students will be provided with breakfast and lunch.
Parents will be provided with a light continental breakfast and lunch on the first day and a light continental breakfast on the second day. Parents may purchase lunch in the Gerard Phelan Dining Hall on campus on the second day.
If I do not have my own transportation, will it be provided by Marymount? If so, where will I be able to be picked up or dropped off?
Marymount University has a
shuttle that runs every 20 minutes during the weekdays and every 30 minutes during the weekend. During both the weekend and weekday, the shuttle will run on the hour. There are two shuttle stops: one at Marymount University’s Ballston Center and another at the Ballston/MU Metro stop.
Will I meet my advisor at SOS?
You might meet your advisor, but, more likely, you'll meet an advisor. Our faculty members use the summertime to do research, work on publications, and take time away from campus, so your advisor might not be here for your SOS. Don't worry! You'll have plenty of time to meet him or her in the fall.
Will I take placement tests at SOS?
Prior to your arrival at your Orientation session, you will need to complete an online process called Directed Self-Placement (DSP). For more information, visit the
Newly Admitted Students website. You also will receive written information about this process shortly after you have made your deposit to Marymount.
Can I be in my friend's orientation group?
Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate any requests to be in specific orientation groups with specific individuals. SOS is a great time to meet new people, and we have discovered that most students don’t meet new people if they are participating with a friend from home. Take the opportunity to meet new people – and know that you’ll also get a chance to meet all of the people with whom your friend connected, too!