New Student Orientation
Welcome to New Student Orientation (NSO)! Whether you're a first-time first-year student or a transfer student, NSO is your opportunity to get connected, feel prepared, and take your first steps toward success at UNC.
Start your UNC journey with New Student Orientation. Connect, explore resources, and prepare for college life as part of the Bear community.
New Student Orientation at the University of Northern Colorado
New Student Orientation (NSO) is your introduction to life as a Bear. Whether you’re arriving from high school, transferring, or returning to school, NSO helps you feel ready to thrive at UNC.
Your First Step Toward Success
At NSO, you’ll build connections, explore UNC resources, and learn how to make the most of your first year. You’ll leave feeling more confident about your transition and more connected to your new community.
Get Connected
Opportunities to meet other new students and campus leaders.
Get In The Know
An introduction to UNC traditions and the Community of Bears.
Get Support
Guidance on navigating campus life and accessing support services.
Get Involved
Tips for getting involved and making the most of your UNC experience.
Welcome to New Student Orientation
Starting college is a big milestone, and we’re here to help you begin with confidence. NSO is your official welcome to the University of Northern Colorado, giving you tools, connections, and information for a strong start.
Why NSO Matters
Introduce you to UNC’s campus and traditions.
Connect you with other new students, staff, and faculty.
Highlight resources that support your academic and personal success.
Help you feel at home in the Community of Bears.
Your Start, Your Journey
Whether you’re beginning at UNC in January or August, your Orientation and Welcome programs are built to match your start. Fall Start students join Orientation in July and return for New Student Days and B.I.G. Bear Welcome in August. Spring Start students attend Orientation the Friday before classes begin, followed by Winter Welcome weekend. No matter when you start, you’ll be welcomed into the Bear community and set up for success.
Before You Attend
You’ll receive a short Pre-Orientation online course to help you prepare. It introduces key policies, resources, and expectations so you arrive informed and ready to engage.
Your Next Step
Once you’ve confirmed your admission, log into your UNC Admissions Portal to register for NSO. We can’t wait to welcome you—on campus or online—and help you start your UNC story.
Family and Friends at NSO
Learn how to support your student and ensure their success at UNC.
Let’s get you ready for your UNC journey!
We’re here to help you get started!
From your very first question to your first day on campus, our team is here to make sure you feel confident and connected. We plan and run New Student Orientation—and we’re the ones behind the scenes making sure everything runs smoothly. You’ll also meet our incredible student staff, who are here to welcome you, answer your questions, and share what it’s really like to be a Bear. We work closely with offices across campus to make sure you get the info and support you need—from choosing classes to finding your people and getting involved.
The Faces You'll See First at UNC
Pablo Valentin
Director of New Student Orientation and Transition Programs
Sarah Spencer
Coordinator
Got questions? We’re here to help.
Get In Touch
General orientation questions: orientation@unco.edu
Admissions application questions: admissions.help@unco.edu
When you email us, please include:
- Your name
- Your Bear Number (if you have it)
- A quick explanation of what you need help with
Parents/Support Persons
If you’re a parent or support person, you’re welcome to reach out on behalf of your student. Just know that due to the Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA), we aren’t able to share details about your student’s record.