Welcome Incoming Students!

What is FOCUS?

FOCUS stands for "Friends On Campus Uniting Students." It's a five day comprehensive orientation program designed to help new and transfer students have a successful transition to the university. All first year students and transfers with less than 24 credit hours will begin their First Year Seminar course during Orientation. This unique opportunity allows you to connect to your Faculty and get adjusted to the academic rigor at Stetson right away.

For the rest of Orientation each student will be placed into a "FOCUS Group" of about 30 students led by two outstanding returning students who have been at Stetson for at least a year and have a strong desire and passion to show new students the ropes.

During the five days of Orientation, students will be able to take care of all of their needs, such as meeting with their academic advisor, getting their student ID and parking decal, setting up their email and Internet, and purchasing their books for class&emdash;all while meeting new people, learning their way around campus and having fun!

What is the purpose of orientation?

The purpose is simply to make the transition to Stetson easier for both students and their families. Beginning college can be a new and sometimes stressful experience; however, FOCUS is here to help everyone get better acquainted with Stetson and learn what it truly means to be a Hatter.

What should you do before you arrive?

Take a look at the Accepted Student Checklist provided by the Office of Admission. This checklist will tell you everything you need to get done prior to checking in on Aug. 18. Bookmark it or print it out so you don't miss anything!

So, what can you expect?

Click on the link below to take a look at the orientation schedule. There you will find events and details so you can feel mentally prepared for the week's events. This schedule was carefully put together to give you the right balance of learning, study time and fun in the evening so you can get out of your rooms and begin making new friends and memories.

Student & Parent Orientation Schedule

How do I get to campus from the airport?

Stetson University is proud to offer complementary shuttle service to and from the Orlando International Airport (MCO/OIA) during FOCUS Orientation.

Where can my parents and family stay while in town?

Stetson University does not allow parents and family members to stay in the residence hall with their student during Orientation. The hotel directory includes a variety of accommodation styles and price levels in and around the DeLand area.

Hotel Directory