Family Orientation & Move-in Day 2026

We are excited to welcome you and your student to Pitzer College’s Class of 2030!

families sit on the mounds near the fountain

Family Orientation & Move-in Day marks the beginning of your student’s journey and is designed to help you feel informed, supported, and connected as your family transitions into the Pitzer community.

 

new students walk under an arm bridge

This day is both a celebration and an opportunity to learn more about the people, resources, and experiences that will shape your student’s time at Pitzer.

It also kicks off the week-long New Student Orientation for new students.

Save the Date!

Saturday, August 22, 2026
(Event details will be shared soon)

 

a family poses on the dorm walkway

 

a student and father hug

 

Helpful Information

Family Orientation & Move-in Day is designed to be both structured and welcoming, with a mix of logistical support, community-building opportunities, and meaningful programming throughout the day.

a family laugh together at family orientation

A confirmed schedule of events will be sent to you later this summer, but you can expect: 

  • Staggered move-in and check-in times to help ensure a smooth arrival experience
  • A central welcome and registration area to get oriented and receive materials
  • A Family & Friends Lounge where you can relax, connect, and visit the campus store
  • Opportunities to pick up welcome gifts and resources for new students
  • A Family Welcome Lunch to gather as a community
  • An afternoon program featuring campus partners and key resources, such as
    academic advising, career services, study abroad, and student support services
  • A Resource Fair to explore campus offices and opportunities
  • A Community Dinner and closing programming, followed by a special farewell
    moment for families

There will also be optional sessions and informal opportunities to connect, including affinity-based gatherings and spaces to meet members of your new Pitzer Community!

 

Students will receive their housing assignment and detailed move-in instructions in advance of arrival.

students and parents walk on the pitzer dorm outside walkways while moving into the dorms

Move-in will include:

  • A designated check-in location on campus
  • Assigned arrival windows to help manage traffic and flow
  • Support from orientation staff and student volunteers throughout the process
  • Additional details, including check-in location, arrival times, and parking information, will
    be shared later this summer.

Visit our Move-in & out page for more move-in information. 

students stand in a large group on the mounds during an orientation event

Following Move-in Day, students will participate in New Student Orientation (NSO), a required program designed to help them build community and prepare for academic and campus life.

Orientation programming typically includes:

  • Academic advising and course preparation
  • Introductions to campus resources and support services
  • Social and community-building activities
  • Orientation Adventures to explore the campus and the surrounding area

Orientation is an important part of helping students feel confident, connected, and ready for the semester ahead.

a family poses under the outdoor classroom pergola

If you are traveling to campus, we recommend:

  • Booking accommodations early
  • Allowing extra time for arrival and parking
  • Wearing comfortable clothing for walking and warm weather

More detailed travel guidance will be shared throughout the summer.

a student and their parents pose for the camera

Stay Connected!

You will receive regular email updates throughout the summer with important information, deadlines, and next steps. If your contact information has changed, please let us know.

Check Back Often!

a family group hugs on the mounds

This page will be updated with additional details as they are confirmed, including: 

  • The full Family Orientation schedule for the day
  • Check-in/arrival times
  • Recommended travel and hotel accommodations
  • Campus maps and parking information
  • Family-specific sessions & resources

 

Questions?