What to really expect during orientation week in university?

Starting university in Canada? What to really expect during orientation week

By University Study

Orientation Week can often be considered as the unofficial start to university life in Canada. If you’re a first-year student, you are probably familiar with all the hype: welcome events, new people, free snacks, cool swag, packed schedules and a lot of energy.

But behind the fun and Instagram stories, Orientation Week is also your first real taste of what university is like. And while the week’s activities are intended to be informative and fun, it’s totally normal to feel nervous, unsure or even a little lost.

So, if you’re gearing up for your first week on campus, here’s a look at what Orientation Week is and what it isn’t.

Friendships take time. You’re not behind if you’re still figuring it out.

Orientation is more than fun and games

There’s no doubt that Orientation Week is designed to be exciting. Between welcome events, themed socials and ice-breaker activities, your calendar will likely fill up fast. But beyond the fun, Orientation is also your first hands-on introduction to how university life works — and that part often gets overlooked.

This is the week you’ll start piecing together the daily details of student life. From navigating your schedule to figuring out where to go for help, it’s the behind-the-scenes stuff that sets you up for success later. You’ll likely:

Pick up your student card and learn to use your campus portal
Find out how to read your schedule
Learn where your classes, study spaces and supports are
Discover how to get tech help, academic advising or counselling if you need it

These necessary first steps early on will make your life easier.

Also, check if your university offers optional sessions on practical skills including budgeting, managing stress or time management. They might not sound thrilling, but they’re packed with tips that can save you a lot of stress down the road.

You don’t need to make friends right away

One of the biggest misconceptions about Orientation is that everyone immediately finds their best friends for life. But here’s the truth: most students don’t meet their best friends during Orientation Week. You might meet people you connect with, or you might not. Both are completely normal. The friendships that stick often form over shared classes, late-night study sessions or even months down the line.

Friendships take time. You’re not behind if you’re still figuring it out.

Feeling lost? That’s normal too

Most students get turned around at some point during Orientation — and not just on campus. Emotionally too, the week can feel like a lot. You might walk into the wrong building. You might not know where the library is. You might start questioning everything about your program. It’s all part of the learning curve. Use this week to:

Walk around and explore without the pressure of getting everything right
Ask for help as most people are happy to point you in the right direction
Check out places you’ll return to later: student services, academic advising, quiet study spots

You’ll feel more confident navigating campus once you’ve wandered a little.

Orientation leaders know what you’re going through

Those loud, cheerful students leading your group? They’ve been exactly where you are — overwhelmed, unsure and maybe even homesick. They can:

Recommend professors, electives and affordable food spots on or nearby campus
Share what helped them through tough semesters
Normalize any doubts you’re having

Don’t be afraid to ask them questions. They’re there to help you.

You’re allowed to say “No thanks”

With events happening back-to-back, it can feel like you must do it all. But you really don’t. Orientation isn’t a checklist; it’s a chance to find your pace. You’re allowed to:

Skip a party and relax in your room
Say no to an event that doesn’t feel like your vibe
Choose quiet over crowds when you need to recharge

Setting boundaries now is good practice for the rest of your academic life. You don’t have to do it all to make the most of the week.

The classes, friendships and routines will come in time. So, take it one step at a time. And know that it’s okay to not have all the answers right away.

One week doesn’t define your whole university experience

Some people have an amazing time during Orientation. Others feel awkward, overwhelmed or out of place. Whether you’re loving every minute or just feel like you survived it, this one week will not define your whole experience. If you don’t love every second of it, it doesn’t mean you chose the wrong school or that things won’t improve. There’s still time to find your rhythm.

It’s okay not to have everything figured out

University is a big change. If you’re feeling excited and nervous, that’s normal. If you’re not sure where to go, what to join or how to feel — that’s okay too. No one starts university with a perfectly mapped-out plan. Orientation can bring a lot of “firsts”:

First time living away from home
First experience of individual freedom and responsibility
First moment of self-reflection and questioning, “Can I really do this?”

Here’s the truth: you don’t need to have all the answers. No one does. If you’re heading into Orientation Week with a mix of excitement, curiosity and a little anxiety — you’re exactly where you need to be. Ask for help when you need it. Rest when you need to. Try new things at your own pace and talk to people when you’re ready.

Whether you’re stepping onto campus for the first time or returning with a fresh mindset, Orientation Week is your invitation to start exploring. You’re not expected to have it all sorted by the end of the week. The classes, friendships and routines will come in time. So, take it one step at a time. And know that it’s okay to not have all the answers right away.