Parent and Family Orientation

Parent & Family Orientation, August 18, 2024.

Last updated July 3, 2024

TimeEvent
Thursday, August 1
9:00 to 10:00 a.m.
Course Registration and Academics at CMC
Session recording
This webinar focused on academics at CMC and what you need to know before Orientation and the first week of classes. Hear from Associate Dean of the Faculty for Curriculum and Associate Professor of Literature Ellen Ketels and Registrar Deborah Flynn about GE requirements, the nuts and bolts of registration, academic advising, and more.
Tuesday, August 6
4:00 to 5:00 p.m.
CMS Athletics Parent Information Session
Session recording
If you are the proud parent of a student athlete, you are most likely thrilled that they have the opportunity to gain valuable qualities and skills both in the classroom and on the field, court, or pool. You may also wonder what to expect as your students begins this journey. Join Erica Perkins Jasper, William B. Arce Director of Athletics, Physical Education & Recreation, to explore how to best support student athletes along the way.
Thursday, August 8
8:30 to 9:30 a.m.
Introduction to the Soll Center for Student Opportunity
Session recording
The Soll Center for Student Opportunity is home to three important services at CMC, including Career Services, the Sponsored Internship Program, and Scholar Communities. Join Ursula Diamond, Director of Student Opportunities, and Priscilla Cobian, Assistant Director of First Year Programming, to learn more about how to support your student in getting the most out of their four years at CMC.
Friday, August 9
12:00 to 1:00 p.m.
Student Well-Being and Success
Session recording
Claremont McKenna College is committed to learning and living environments that empower students to make responsible choices that impact their physical, emotional, and mental health. In this session, members of the Dean of Students Office will highlight some of the many strategies in place to support this goal, and will describe the well-being resources available to students as they navigate their transition and their journey through college. Information about shared services dedicated to student well-being at the Claremont Colleges will also be covered, including Monsour Counseling and Psychological Services, Student Health Services, and tele-med options.
TimeEvent
3:30 to 5:00 p.m.International Student Welcome & Information Fair (International Families)
McKenna Auditorium 
Join students, families, and members of the Dean of Students office to learn more about academic resources, student organizations, and other campus partners.
5:00 - 7:00 p.m.President’s House Reception (International Families)
The President's House
We look forward to welcoming international parents to the President's House for a reception. Appetizers and beverages will be served. Registration requested.
TimeEvent
6:30 to 9:30 a.m.Collins Dining Hall open for breakfast
$16.25 per person. Credit card only at the door.
8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.Parent Check-in and Hospitality Center
The Hub at Emett Student Center
Before programming begins, head to the Hub at Emmett Student Center to check in and receive your nametags, schedule, tickets, and other important information. Feel free to stop by throughout the day to take a break, ask a question, or mingle with other new CMC parents. Please note students may begin moving in at 8:00 a.m.; students must be present to sign for their room keys. Keys will not be issued to family members. No exceptions.
8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.Supply Shop Pop-Up
Roberts Pavilion
Don’t miss this opportunity to stock up on all the latest and greatest merch to show your CMC pride!.
8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Drop-in times
Volunteering at CMC
The Hub at Emett Student Center
As the parent of a CMC student, you are already a part of the Parent Network. If you would like to become more actively involved, please stop by the Parent Volunteer Kiosk to meet current members of our Parent Network Board. Here you can learn about the many opportunities available, including career services, admission, communications, events, and giving. You don’t have to live locally to volunteer and support CMC and our amazing students!
11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.It’s Your Choice!
Enjoy some free-time to do what you choose. Take care of a last minute errand, join a tour, drop by the Hospitality Center to meet fellow families or write a letter to your student, shop for the latest gear at the CMC Supply Shop, visit the Student Accounts or Financial Aid office, or take a moment to rest and relax in a shady spot before lunch.
11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
1:00 to 2:00 p.m.
Campus Tours
Meet at the Office of Admission at Kravis Center
Welcome to our beautiful campus! Join a special walking tour of CMC’s historic and unique locations, including our incredible new art installations. Come ready to ask your behind-the-scenes questions about how a building was named or why there is a plaque under your favorite campus tree.
11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.First Generation Family Meet and Greet
Parents Library, Marian Miner Cook Athenaeum
This reception is open to first generation students and family members. Hosted by the Office of Alumni and Parent Engagement. Registration required.
11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.CMC Alumni Families Reception
Founders Room, Bauer Center
This reception is open to CMC alumni families and is hosted by the Office of Alumni and Parent Engagement. Registration required.
12:00 to 2:00 p.m.

Student and Parent Community Lunch
Parents Field
Join the campus community for a bite to eat featuring the In-N-Out Truck, a California institution!

Two complimentary tickets per family; $15 each additional ticket. Registration required.

1:00 to 2:00 p.m.Campus Tour
Meet at the Office of Admission at Kravis Center
Welcome to our beautiful campus! Join a special walking tour of CMC’s historic and unique locations, including our incredible new art installations. Come ready to ask your behind-the-scenes questions about how a building was named or why there is a plaque under your favorite campus tree.
2:15 to 3:05 p.m.Campus Life 101
McKenna Auditorium
Join Dianna Graves '98, Vice President for Student Affairs, to learn more about student life on campus and how you and the College can partner to support your student.
3:15 to 4:05 p.m.Academic Requirements
McKenna Auditorium
Join Associate Dean of the Faculty for Curriculum and Associate Professor of Literature Ellen Ketels as she provides an overview of the College’s academic requirements. Learn about the general education curriculum, academic policies, and the educational path your student will follow to complete their CMC degree.
4:30 to 5:30 p.m.Welcome to CMC!
Roberts Pavilion Arena
Join the campus community at this memorable event as College leadership officially welcomes all new students and families into the CMC community. 
5:30 to 6:00 p.m.Family Farewell!
Roberts Pavilion Arena
As the sun sets on an amazing day, please take a moment for one last hug as the remaining Orientation events are for students only.

For those arriving early, the Claremont Heritage Foundation has arranged the following opportunities:

TimeEvent
Friday, August 16
9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Claremont Colleges 5C Walking tour 
Docents from Claremont Heritage, the local non-profit organization dedicated to advancing, preserving, and celebrating the historic architectural, natural, and cultural resources of the community, will lead a walking tour that explores the history of The Claremont Colleges from their founding in 1887 (in the town of Pomona!) to today. The walk includes visits to many of the venerated buildings (exteriors only) on the campuses. Special attention is paid to the magnificent architecture and artworks that grace the campuses, with an emphasis on historic Pomona College and beautiful Scripps College. We end back in the “Village,” where you may choose to dine in one of the delicious restaurants that dot the area. $10 per person; registration required.
Saturday, August 17
10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Claremont Village Walking Tour
Join docents from Claremont Heritage, the local non-profit organization dedicated to advancing, preserving, and celebrating the historic architectural, natural, and cultural resources of the community, on a walking tour of the quaint Claremont “Village.” Learn the history of the town—from agriculture to colleges—and visit some of the key sites that make Claremont such a unique city. Share in the stories, art, and architecture of the “City of Trees and Ph.Ds.” We end in time for you to visit one of the great restaurants in the Village for lunch.$10 per person; registration required.
Sundays
8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Claremont Farmers and Artisans Market
Harvard Ave. (between First St. and Bonita Ave.)
Just a short walk away from campus, the Claremont Farmers Market, in the downtown area known as the Village, is a great place to pick up some fresh fruit or veggies, baked goods, tasty samples, fresh-cut flowers, and arts and crafts. Wander around and enjoy the fellowship and the sights, sounds, and smells of freshness!

Discover More

Follow these links to learn more about how you can get involved as a CMC Parent.