Orientation Schedule
Fall 2024 Graduate Student Orientation
Monday & Tuesday, August 19 & 20, 2024
MONDAY
International Student Session - 9:00 a.m., Leighton Concert Hall, DeBartolo Performing Arts Center
Notre Dame's office of International Student & Scholar Affairs (ISSA) will present information on requirements and resources specific to the needs of international students. This session is mandatory for all new international graduate students.
Welcome from University Leadership - 11:00 a.m., Leighton Concert Hall, DeBartolo Performing Arts Center
The Dean of the Graduate School, the Vice President for Student Affairs, and other university leaders will welcome you and introduce you to graduate studies and graduate life at Notre Dame.
Lunch & Resource Fair - 12:30 p.m., Dahke Ballroom, Duncan Student Center
Walk through Dahnke Ballroom in the Duncan Student Center and talk one-on-one with staff and students from around campus and partners from the South Bend community who provide resources and support for graduate students. Enjoy lunch and load up on free giveaways while you're there!
Getting Started at Notre Dame - 2:30 p.m., Stepan Center and Hesburgh Library
Also known as “Getting Stuff Done!” This block of time is designed to allow you to cross some important items off your to-do list. Complete your HR paperwork to ensure you get your first stipend payment on time, get your ND ID card, consider your health insurance options, meet your subject librarian, and more. We’ll consolidate these services in easy to access locations so you can get a whole bunch done in a short amount of time.
TUESDAY
Feeling at Home Under the Dome - 9:30 a.m., Dahke Ballroom, Duncan Student Center
The focus of this morning plenary is to introduce you to the offices, resources, policies, and people that help us ensure that every member of the Notre Dame community feels welcome, safe, and supported. Plus, you’ll have the chance to ask questions to a panel of graduate students and faculty mentors.
Mass at the Basilica (Optional) - 11:30 a.m., Basilica of the Sacred Heart
Join us for Mass in the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, a beautiful gem at the heart of campus. The Basilica has provided a place of prayer, celebration, and quiet contemplation for people of all ages, faiths, and cultures for more than 125 years. Its art & architecture include 44 stained-glass windows, 56 painted murals, a 218-foot bell tower with a 24-bell carillon, and an organ with 2,929 pipes. Most importantly, the Basilica is the spiritual heart of Notre Dame, and a welcome place of sanctuary for all.
Lunch & Afternoon Break - 12:30 p.m.
Take some time to explore campus eateries, grab free coffee in the Grad Lounge, or take a nap - the time is yours! Note: Some academic departments may use this time to host you for lunch, so keep an eye out for possible invitations.
DTSB Scavenger Hunt - 2:30 p.m., Downtown South Bend
We will find our way downtown to explore your new home in South Bend, Indiana. Working in small groups you’ll get to find and experience some of the unique and exciting things our city has to offer, and make new friends along the way!
Downtown Dinners - 5:30 p.m., Downtown South Bend
There are more than 40 restaurants in downtown South Bend ranging from pizza to pho, burgers to barbeque, sandwiches to sushi, and so much more. Choose your favorite then dine together with your fellow grad students to discover local treasures and build lasting friendships! Note: Each participant will pay for their own meal. Prices range from $10-$30 per plate.