University of Arkansas Orientation 2026

Calling all Freshman Parents! ❤️🐗

Have you been to Orientation yet?

❤️ Be sure to park in the Garland Garage (650 Garland Avenue)! Enter on the north side (Cleveland Street).

❤️ Orientation leaders will be at the north entrance (Cleveland Street), to give out your complimentary parking pass. Be sure not to back into spots (your license tag needs to be visible.)

❤️ One Day Session attendees should arrive between 7:30-8:30am, and Two Day Attendees should arrive between 2:30-3:30pm.

❤️ You can pick up your student ID during orientation if you uploaded a photo in advance!

I’ve moved a couple kids to college now (and now I have another senior in high school…so I’m only a year away from a THIRD 😅). I’m by no means an expert..especially since all kids are different! But here is what my kids have needed (and used) the most:

1️⃣ Bedding. Boys don’t care what kind. A fitted sheet and a big quilt make them happy. They won’t wash it all year, but don’t worry. You can throw them away at the end. Don’t spend too much on them. Girls? They buy sheets, duvet, a throw blanket, and alll the pillows...

I’ve gifted, visited, and hugged an exceptional number of students struggling this year. I know they each feel alone, stranded, and they’re beginning to feel desperate. The rush of decorating their room is over, the homework has set in, and Christmas break seems so far away.

As difficult as it seems, they need to talk to people. SO many students are feeling the exact same way. Talk to people on the elevator, open your dorm door, prop it open, and invite people over for an xbox competition, a tray of cookies, or hilarious game of New Phone, Who ‘Dis? They could start a study group, make dinner in the dorm kitchen (most have a fully-stocked kitchen with pots/pan/dishes you can sign up to use!), or go by the HPER to workout or join a class!

Don’t stress over the little things. If I’ve learned anything . . I know my kids will call or text me if they really need something.