Student orientation is the perfect time to find one’s way around campus, make early friendships and learn the ins-and-outs of how to succeed at Butler University — but what if there was a bit more time to get in gear?
General orientation, while informative, is packed to the brim with activities and icebreakers, making it difficult for new students to catch their breath. To ease into college life more gradually, Butler offers multiple pre-orientation programs designed to forge early connections between first-year students and immerse them in the local community. These programs occur before general orientation, and students can choose from six options depending on their specific interests.
Ambassadors of Change (AOC) is a community-based pre-orientation program that helps students make a difference in Indianapolis as soon as they arrive. Students participating in AOC complete service projects for local organizations such as Midwest Food Bank, Horizon House and Helping Veterans and Families. Students are sure to leave the program with a better understanding of how to give back.
Jack Lloyd, a junior political science major and co-director of AOC, found the experience beneficial when he participated as a freshman.
“I would not be in the position I am now if I didn’t do this program,” Lloyd said. “[By] coming to campus a week early, I met so many people I’m still friends with … Being able to learn more from the community you’re becoming a part of [through the program], whether that be Butler or Indianapolis, gives you a lot of really valuable learning moments.”
Having time to explore areas of interest before the school year starts can be valuable, especially for those who are unsure about the future. Someone with an undecided major could discover a passion for sustainability, or a student who previously participated in community service could find a new cause to rally around. AOC participants in particular often wind up in positions of leadership like the Volunteer Opportunities Council.
In addition to sparking new interest in the Indianapolis community, pre-orientations can also create a sense of belonging. The Dawg Days program is tailored towards students with diverse identities and strives to create a welcoming and safe community. Participants in Dawg Days can expect group activities and support from peers and mentors to flourish on Butler’s campus.
Senior arts administration major Oli Barnett found the Dawg Days program helpful in relieving fears associated with starting college.
“I was terrified to come to college,” Barnett said. “I was terrified that I wouldn’t find friends … I was terrified to show up at all. Dawg Days made me feel like regardless of what I might face in the real world … I have my group of people who are gonna protect me and love me and be there for me, no matter what happens.”
Senior accounting major Anna Robbins said that involvement in AOC helped her feel comfortable when starting her first semester.
“I instantly had friends before school even started,” Robbins said. “As far as the organizations and volunteering that we do, it really helped me see the bigger picture of Indy and understand what is out there to make a difference.”
One of the advantages of Butler pre-orientations is that the majority of the program staff is made up of previous participants in said programs. Students often return in leadership roles because the opportunity was valuable to their college experience. They aim to help future Bulldogs feel just as welcomed as they did back in their first years.
“It’s a lot of fun,” Lloyd said. “Being a teambuilder is like [being] a mentor to the new incoming students.”
AOC and Dawg Days are not the only pre-orientation programs Butler offers. Beyond service opportunities and peer-to-peer bonding, students can also learn about the on-campus esports facility, participate in fitness activities and more. If an incoming Bulldog wants to get the lay of the land before classes start, Into the City is the perfect opportunity to tour famous Indianapolis sites. Sports fanatics should look no further than Welcome to Sports Town, where they will tour the city’s rich assortment of sporting arenas.
“Get involved, even if it makes you uncomfortable for a little bit,” Barnett said. “Uncomfortability is what will lead to a thriving community.”
For more information about becoming involved with Butler Orientation, contact the Office of First-Year Experience and Student Transitions at orientation@butler.edu.