It's Time For Bigger Goals
We're thrilled you have chosen Ïã½¶ÊÓÆµ to pursue your bigger goals. As a first-year college student, it is our responsibility and joy to help you and your family transition to college life.
Our Team:

- Coordinates orientation and other activities to ease your way during your first year.
- Advises Phi Eta Sigma (Honor Society) a national honor society for first-year students who display superior academic ability (GPA 3.5 or higher) and performance.
- Monitors first-year student grades and helps students find tutors when needed.
Explore this page for information about our New Student Orientation, First-Year Mentors Program, First-Year Advisement Summer Transition (FAST) and other first-year programs.
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New Student Orientation
Orientation is a great opportunity for incoming first-year and other new students to get to know Duquesne and their classmates. Our week-long orientation program is a great opportunity for new students to get to know our campus and their classmates. Orientation also offers a Parent and Family Orientation, Commuter Orientation, as well as a Transfer Student Orientation. Every deposited student is automatically registered for Orientation.
Orientation Dates
What Makes Our Orientation Special?
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Our program is developed for students by students. Our student staff is uniquely positioned to welcome you to the Duquesne family.
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Since we've been through the process ourselves, we know that starting college is a thrilling yet apprehensive time.
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With this understanding, we have developed a program that fits the needs of our new students and will enable them to make the most of this next exciting chapter of their lives!
Move-In Day
We are so excited for the arrival of all students and hope that we can make move-in as stress-free as possible! When arriving, all vehicles will be directed into campus through McAnulty Drive where the specific route to LLCs will be identified by our Duquesne Public Safety Officers and Orientation Staff.
Please keep the following in mind during Move-In Day:
Please adhere to your move-in time slot. To request any changes to your move-in time, please email Residence Life.
- Have all items and boxes labeled with your full name, building, and room number.
- You must pick up your room key from the residence life tent/tables outside of your residence hall before entering the building.
- After your move-in is complete, visit the Orientation tent for your goodies for the week!
- Lunch will be provided to all students and families on Move-In Day in Hogan Dining
Center, free of charge.
Make sure to have the Orientation Schedule downloaded on your device in preparation for move-in! This schedule includes more detailed information about our move-in process, a schedule of events, campus resources, a to-do list before classes start, and more.
New student move-in time is based on floor assignments.
Parent and Family Orientation
Be sure to attend Parent and Family Orientation.
Our First Year Advisory Council is a group of freshmen who meet with the Director of Freshman
Development biweekly throughout their first year. Students provide feedback to the
Director concerning current freshmen needs. Members of the executive board plan service projects for the First Year Students.
Examples of these projects are: Member of the executive board plan social events for the First Year Students. Examples
of these events are: Join your fellow first year students on these weekend trips to discover cultural,
entertainment and recreational attractions in the Pittsburgh region. The fun includes: If anyone has any suggestions for next year programs, please contact Freshman Development. Phi Eta Sigma is a national honor society whose goal is to encourage and reward academic
excellence among freshmen in institutions of higher learning. Phi Eta Sigma was founded at the University of Illinois on March 22, 1923 at the University
of Illinois. Today the national honor society has than 375 chapters throughout the
United States and more than 1,100,000 members. Phi Eta Sigma obtained membership into the Association of College Honor Societies
in 1973. Only two societies have had longer continuous memberships. As a national
college and scholastic honor society for freshmen, Phi Eta Sigma encourages and rewards
high scholastic achievement in institutions of higher learning. The Ïã½¶ÊÓÆµ chapter was established on November 15, 1983. The students
who are honored at this ceremony earned a cumulative grade point average of at least
3.5 at the end of their first semester at Ïã½¶ÊÓÆµ. The tutoring request process is now easier than ever! Students can request tutoring
via . Our Learning Skills Center offers both in-person and online, tutoring. In-person tutoring
will be held in our reserved classrooms, and online tutoring is conducted via Zoom.
We also present an Exam Review Workshops via Zoom. Additional tutoring or test preparation can be found in Mellon Hall for the following
classes: Biology 111, Anatomy & Physiology, Biology: Intro To Life Processes, General
Chemistry, Advanced General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Physics. Please consult the schedule for times and locations. Appointments or referrals are
not need for these sessions. Our University Writing Center is here to help with your final projects and papers. If you are taking ESL courses (Basic A through UCOR 101E and UCOR 102E) we have tutors
who can help you. Our ESL Program has trained tutors who can help you understand and
improve your English skills. Many excellent students have worked with ESL tutors.
These students developed their language skills, and they felt more confident in using
English. ESL Program tutoring is free. You can make a tutoring appointment once a week. If you are a student currently taking
ESL Program courses, please make an appointment with an . Palumbo-Donahue School of Business Mathematics and Computer Science Music School Advisement Office NAP Coaching Spiritan Brother Gerald Keating served the Duquesne community from 1924 until 1980.
In that time, he developed the Our Lady of Victories Shrine and garden and served
a campus chef for many decades. During the Great Depression, Brother Keating quietly
supported students who felt the crippling impact of the economic collapse, thus enabling
them to successfully complete their academic studies. The Keating Initiative seeks to assist food insecure students, faculty, and staff.
The initiative includes comprehensive "wrap-around" services that include health and
wellness, meal vouchers, and a campus food pantry. Individuals wishing to utilize the Keating Initiative are asked to complete an intake
document which will enable them full access to the pantry and other services. For more information, please reach out to us: Tamara Trembulak Jeanie Kocinski Our DULA program was crafted to highlight the University's current community-engagement
efforts in target neighborhoods, introduce students to key community leaders and agencies,
encourage the personal development of participants, and foster spiritual growth of
participants looking to live out their faith by serving others. To provide a six-day program for Catholic high school students to engage in challenging
dialogue, motivating workshops and trainings, as well as community-engaged and social
activities designed to enhance academic learning, personal development, faith development,
leadership skills, and civic identity development. Ïã½¶ÊÓÆµ Leadership Academy (DULA) seeks each day to foster the following: By participating in this program, students will:Programs for First-Year Students
Michael P. Weber Learning Skills Center
Students are able request for tutoring in three different ways:
Upon submission of the Learning Skills Center - Tutor Request Form, a tutor will contact
the student within 3-5 business days with details on how to schedule an appointment.
At that time students can specify whether they want in-person or online.Supplemental Science Instruction
Writing Center
ESL Program Tutoring
Other sources of tutoring:
704 Rockwell Hall
(412) 396-6276
Athletic Academic Coordinators
1st floor, Mendel Hall
(412) 396-6565
440 College Hall
(412) 396-6467
Modern Languages Department
202 Fisher Hall
(412) 396-6415
303 School of Music
(412) 396-5744
(For students in nursing courses)
544 Fisher Hall
(412) 396-6347
Donations are accepted through the United Way (#16569303: Brother Keating Initiative
Food Pantry)
Assistant Director for Center for Student Involvement
and Union Operations
Administrative Assistant for First Year Development
and Disability ServicesObjective & Goals
Welcome to Ïã½¶ÊÓÆµ! We know that starting college is both exciting and transformative. To help you transition
smoothly, we're excited to introduce the FAST (First Year Advisement Summer Transition)
program. Designed by the Office of First Year Development, this initiative ensures
your entry into the vibrant Duquesne community is seamless. Why Attend FAST? FAST is a must-attend program that offers you and your family essential insights and
resources to prepare for your academic journey at Duquesne. Each school offers two
specific days for participation, and you only need to choose one that fits your schedule,
making it a convenient and personalized experience. While this program is not a requirement,
it is highly encouraged for all incoming students and family members to attend to
ensure a smooth transition. What to Expect at FAST: This tailored support ensures you start your academic journey at Duquesne with confidence
and ease. Join us at FAST to lay the foundation for a successful and fulfilling experience
at Duquesne. We can't wait to welcome you to our community!
First-Year Advisement Summer Transition (FAST)
We look forward to seeing you on campus!
Your FAST Days & Schedule
Register for your customized experience at FAST!
Tuesday, July 8 at 8 a.m.
Wednesday, July 9 at 8 a.m.
Thursday, July 10 at 8 a.m.
Friday, July 11 at 8 a.m.
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Session Description |
Location |
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8 a.m. – 9 a.m. |
Check-In and Information Fair |
Kick off your day during the check-in process by exploring campus resources, connecting with faculty and staff, and gathering vital information from a wide selection of departments to prepare for the start of the fall semester. |
UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse, Cordia Entrance |
9:00 a.m. – 9:20 a.m. |
Welcome & Introductory Remarks |
Receive a warm welcome and remarks from key university administrators including: Dr. Leanna Fenneberg, Senior Vice President for Student Life, Dr. Adam Wasilko, Dean of Students, and Chrissy Bober, rising senior in the John G. Rangos School of Health Sciences, Director for New Student Orientation 2025. |
UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse, Ground Level |
9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. |
Individual Academic School Sessions |
Hear from your Academic School administration, student success coaches, faculty and more about what you should prepare for and expect as you embark on your academic career at Ïã½¶ÊÓÆµ. Key topics include various academic requirements, personalized guidance, resources necessary for your achievement, and more. |
See pg. 4 for session locations |
9:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. |
ID Card Printing, Technology Purchasing, and TechHUB Technology Showcase |
Whether you've already submitted your photo online or prefer to take it in person, visit the 2nd floor Parking and ID Card Services office during FAST to get your ID card printed instantly. Or visit the CTS TechHUB to meet with tech experts and learn about your academic program’s technology recommendations ! You can even buy your computer while you are there! All Dells come with a 4-year accidental warranty & MacOS has an option to purchase a 4-year accidental with no deductible! |
Student Union, 2nd Floor |
11 a.m. - 2 p.m. |
Health Services Support: Immunizations, Insurance, and Medical Questions |
Drop by to obtain assistance with immunization reviews and uploads through Health Services partnership with the Center for Pharmacy Care, discuss the Student Health Insurance Plan with UPMC and Gallagher Student Health, and address any medical questions or concerns you have as you begin at Duquesne. |
Wellbeing Center, Gumberg Library, 3rd Floor |
11 a.m. - 2 p.m. |
Cybersecurity Awareness: Essential Tips from Computing and Technology Services (CTS) |
Visit the CTS table for tips on protecting your identity and devices from cyber threats and get a phishy treat! |
Student Union, 2nd Floor |
11 a.m. - 2 p.m. |
Commuter Connections: Commuter Center Open House & Resources |
Tour Duquesne’s Commuter Center and meet the staff of the Office of Commuter Affairs. Learn all about commuting Ïã½¶ÊÓÆµ. Whether it’s meeting other commuters in the Commuter Lounge, utilizing our computer lab, or getting involved with other students on campus, there are many opportunities for Commuter students to become involved in the Duquesne community. Come see what makes our Commuter student resources special! |
Commuter Center and Lounge, Student Union, 1st Floor |
11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. |
FAST Lab: Personalized Support for Financial Aid, Administrative Privileges, and More |
Partner with a university staff member one on one from Student Life or Enrollment Management to complete essential tasks from your administrative checklist, including signing your Federal master promissory note, completing loan entrance counseling, assigning tuition bill authorized payers, updating emergency contacts, learning about FERPA privileges and more. |
5th Floor Gumberg Library |
11:30 a.m - 3:30 p.m. |
Loan Ready: Final Steps to Secure Your Federal Aid |
Get set for the semester by completing two key steps in the financial aid process: signing your Federal Master Promissory Note (MPN) and finishing your Loan Entrance Counseling. This session will guide you through each step, answer your questions, and make sure you're ready to receive your federal student loans |
College Hall (room TBD) |
11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. |
Buffet Lunch (Last Names: A-L) |
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Hogan Dining Center, Duquesne Towers LLC, 2nd Floor |
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Honor's College Student and Family Buffet Lunch |
Students who have enrolled in the Honors College can take this opportunity to meet the Honors College staff and their new classmates. An overview of Honors College opportunities and a Q&A session are also provided. |
Power Center Ballroom A, Power Center, 5th Floor |
12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. |
Buffet Lunch (Last Names: M-Z) |
|
Hogan Dining Center, Duquesne Towers LLC, 2nd Floor |
1:45 p.m. - 2:15 p.m. |
Welcome Week Essentials: Campus Arrival and New Student Orientation Preview (Students Only) |
Join our New Student Orientation Directors and Chairpersons, all student leaders themselves, to learn what to expect during your first week on campus! This session will guide you on all aspects related to campus arrival, new student team information, the NSO schedule, special event opportunities for both Transfer and New Commuters, and so much more to prepare for your personal NSO experience. |
Union Ballroom |
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The Ïã½¶ÊÓÆµ Mission: Insights from the Dean of Students (Parents/Families Only) |
Hear from Dr. Adam Wasilko as he provides insights into the Ïã½¶ÊÓÆµ mission and values. Discover Ïã½¶ÊÓÆµ's longstanding commitment to academic excellence, ethical development, and holistic support since its founding, and how these principles influence the educational journey of students and the supportive role of their families today. |
Power Center BC |
2 - 4 p.m. |
Life on the Bluff: Your Campus Experience |
Kick off your college journey at Life on the Bluff: Your Campus Experience — an end-of-day celebration where you can meet fellow students, enjoy games and giveaways, and connect with the Student Life campus resources here to support you outside of the classroom. Residential students will be able to tour their residence halls to get a first look at their home on the Bluff! |
Assumption Commons Lawn |
Academic School Sessions - July 8 and 10 |
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Science and Engineering |
Student Union Ballroom, 4th Floor Student Union |
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Liberal Arts |
Pappert Lecture Hall, School of Pharmacy |
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Nursing |
Power Center Ballroom BC, 5th Floor Power Center |
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Academic School Sessions - July 9 and 11 |
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Business |
Union Ballroom, 4th Floor Student Union |
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Health Sciences |
Power Center Ballroom, Section BC Power Center |
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Pharmacy |
Bayer 101 Lecture Hall, School of Pharmacy |
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Education |
Africa Room, 3rd Floor Student Union |
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Music |
PNC Recital Hall, Mary Pappert School of Music |
Contact Us
Please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have!