Location
Penn Highlands Richland Campus
101 Community College Way
Johnstown, PA 15904
Presenters
Contact Information
Fall 2026 New Student Orientation
Description
Our orientation program is designed to help you transition smoothly—both academically and socially—into the College community. You’ll learn how to make the most of your college experience and gain essential skills for success. We are excited to welcome you as a new student and look forward to helping you become familiar with our resources and services.
Orientation Details
- Date: Wednesday, August 19, 2026
- Check-in: 8:30 – 9:15 a.m.
- Program Time: 9:15 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
- Location: Richland Campus (for students from all locations)
What to Expect
- A warm welcome to the College
- Exploration of career pathways
- A meeting with your academic advisor
- An overview of key college services
Additional Information
- You may bring up to two guests; please note this is a full-day event featuring lectures and interactive educational sessions, and may not be suitable for young children.
- Bookstore: Open before and after Orientation
- Transportation will be provided from all the center locations. (If transportation is needed, please note it on your RSVP form.)
- Resource & Activity Fair:
- Morning: 8:30 - 9:15 a.m.
- Afternoon: 3:00 – 3:30 p.m.
- Designed to help you complete your Black Bear Passport to Success before leaving
Attendance: Students are expected to remain for the full duration of the day.
Upcoming Dates And Times
- Aug 19, 20268:30 AM - 3:00 PM (12:30 PM - 7:00 PM UTC)Available spots: 10
Questions & Answers
- Will transportation be provided?
Transportation will be provided from all center locations. Please note your transportation needs on your RSVP form.
- Will lunch be provided?
Yes! A light lunch will be provided during the program. Students are asked to note any special dietary restrictions on their RSVP form.
- Is attendance mandatory?
Yes. All new students to Penn Highlands must attend an orientation program.
- Can I bring a guest?
Yes. Students may bring up to two guests with them.
- Will I meet my advisor at orientation?
Yes. Students will meet not only with their assigned academic advisor during the program, but they will meet various staff advisors and instructors throughout the day.
- Will college offices be open?
Yes, all of our offices will be open to assist students. Some offices may be occupied with presenting information during the orientation program, but they will be available to you once their portion of the presentation is over.
- Will I be able to get my textbooks at Orientation?
Yes. The college's bookstore, located at our Richland Campus, will be open during Orientation. The busiest times to visit the bookstore is around lunch time. We suggest visiting the bookstore during the Resource and Activity Fair at 9:00 - 9:30AM or 1:30 - 3:30PM when the traffic may be slower.
- Can I add/drop courses during Orientation?
Yep, the Registrar's Office will be open to assist students with adding and dropping classes. Advisors will also be available to assist you with questions.
- How long is the program?
The program is scheduled from 9:15 - 3:00PM. We have time after the formal program for students and families to get additional information from our staff and offices. That time is 3:00 - 3:30pm
