New Student Orientation (NSO) is an essential part of every new student’s transition to the University of Utah. Before diving into classes, it’s important that students get to know their new home both on and off campus.
Clay Newman, Swoop participant: “You’re going to make a lot of cool friends.”
By the end of this summer, the Office of Orientation & Transition will have hosted 16 first-year student orientations for the Class of 2023. These sessions last for two days and are required for all newly admitted students. Attendees and their parents are invited to explore campus, explore major options and learn about student groups. Fall semester NSO even includes an overnight stay in the residence halls.
As students are getting to know the campus, the orientation team encourages them to explore Utah as well. A great way for new students to see the best of what the state has to offer is by attending Swoop Base Camp.
This established University of Utah tradition is an extended orientation program that takes place in the beautiful Wasatch Mountains. During Swoop Base Camp, students can expect to stay in cabin facilities or yurts and have the opportunity to participate in a morning breakfast hike, test out a giant swing, rock climb, compete in an Olympiad and the grand finale: Survive the Swoop Camp color war.
Omar Tsai, Swoop captain: “If someone’s thinking about coming to Swoop Camp I definitely think they should. It has changed my whole collegiate career.”
Since 2013, Swoop Base Camp has helped new students make connections, build community and prepare to successfully take on their first year at the U. There is room for 100 students at each camp, and reservations will be taken on a first come, first served basis. It is open to all first-year students, and while it may be especially beneficial for out-of-state students, even those from Utah will get to meet new people and have a memorable adventure.
Swoop Base Camp provides daily meals and meets dietary restrictions when needed. Any equipment needed for camp and transportation is provided as well. The only thing participants need to bring is proper clothing, a sleeping bag and a pillow.
Mariah Martin, Swoop captain: “Totally go for it because it’s one of the coolest experiences ever.”
If the breathtaking views, meaningful relationships and s’mores aren’t enough, students who participate in Swoop Base Camp are also eligible for Early Housing Move-In. Early arrival costs $39 a night. Students can update their arrival date in Housing U beginning in early July.
If you have questions about early arrival, feel free to reach out to Housing & Residential Education at info@housing.utah.edu.
Swoop Base Camp takes place Monday, Aug. 12-Thursday, Aug. 15, 2019. Contact the Office of Orientation & Transition at orientation@sa.utah.edu with any questions.