Orientation FAQs

Do I really need to participate in online Summer and Fall Welcome Orientation?

Yes. The expectation of Russell Sage College is that all students need to participate in orientation. Orientation is filled with opportunities for students to gain an understanding of policies, offices, and services that Sage has to offer. Plus, we have a number of important opportunities to have you network with other new and returning students from both our Albany and Troy campuses. Please make sure to plan accordingly so you can fully participate in our online and in-person orientation sessions.

What is covered and why is it important?

At Russell Sage College, we want you to grow and succeed throughout your time with us. Orientation helps provide a smooth transition into your college experience and gives you the opportunity to meet a number of our faculty and staff, to attend key presentations that inform you about our expectations and support services. In addition, all new students will receive their course schedules, and students will have the opportunity to meet their fellow classmates. Staff from Financial Aid and Student Accounts will be on hand to help students and families understand the steps they need to take to secure their financial aid and pay their bills. This is a great chance for you to have your questions and concerns answered. You may even find answers to questions you didn’t know you had!

Do I need to attend each day of Fall Welcome Orientation?

Yes.  ALL students (including transfers and commuters) must attend the additional three days of orientation (Monday, August 24th-Wednesday, August 26th), so please plan accordingly. Arriving late or leaving early is not a good idea. If you do, you will miss out on key information and experiences here at Sage and you will not be adequately prepared for classes to begin on Thursday, August 27th.

Will resident students move on campus prior to Fall Welcome Orientation?

The residence life office is currently making plans to allow resident students to move on campus by August 23rd.  We are awaiting further guidance from federal and state officials before we can finalize our plans and communicate those with students.  Students should check their Sage email regularly to look for updates.

Is there a deadline for completing online orientation?

Many aspects of online orientation are designed for you to complete at your own pace.  However, in each section of the online orientation course, you might have specific deadlines that you need to meet. You will get a checklist with these required deadlines, and you will receive monthly emails from the deans of students with reminders about the tasks you need to complete.

Are there live virtual events happening this summer?

Yes!  Live virtual events are scheduled for first year students on Thursday, July 16th and for transfers on Wednesday, July 22nd. More information about these events will be sent to you via email and through the online orientation course.  Parents and family members will have the opportunity to participate in some of these sessions as well.

Will I be able to visit campus this summer?

If public gatherings are permitted in the Capital Region this summer, students and families will have the opportunity to visit campus in small groups in the first few weeks of August.

Whom can I contact with questions?

Any questions or concerns should be directed to the Office of Student Life at [email protected] or by phone to 518-292-1753 (Albany campus) or 518-244-2207 (Troy campus). We look forward to getting to know you!

NOTE: All new students are charged the orientation fee, even if they are unable to attend orientation.