Welcome Incoming Students!
FOCUS Week for the incoming class of 2027 will take place August 19-23, 2023.
FOCUS is a five-day comprehensive orientation program designed to help new students have a successful transition to life at Stetson University. All first-year and transfer students with less than 24 credits begin their First-Year Seminar during FOCUS. This opportunity allows you to connect with your faculty and begin adjusting to Stetson University's academic rigor right away.
During FOCUS, you and your FSEM class or fellow transfer students will meet daily with your FOCUS Leader, outstanding returning students who have been at the university for at least a year and who have a strong desire and passion for showing new students the ropes.
Also during FOCUS, you'll be able to take care of everything needed to get settled in, all while taking part in exciting activities, meeting new people, learning your way around campus and having fun!
What to Expect
The schedule carefully balances learning, study time and fun in the evening to ensure you have plenty of time to get acquainted with life as a Hatter. Check out the FOCUS Orientation Schedule to learn more about what to expect! The 2023 FOCUS Week Schedule will be posted later this summer.
The FOCUS Staff
Before you arrive on campus in August, expect to hear from your FOCUS Leader. The FOCUS Leaders are current students who are here to help make the transition to life at Stetson University as smooth as possible. Don't be afraid to ask questions - they are here to help!
Please note - for those required to take a First Year Seminar (FSEM), your FSEM will also serve as your FOCUS Group. If you have not registered for Fall 2022 classes, you will not have a FOCUS Leader assigned to you. Registering for classes as early as possible will give you access to your FOCUS Leader, who will be a valuable resource throughout the summer and fall. Transfer students who will be brining in more than 24 credits (and are exempt from FSEM) will be assigned their Transfer FOCUS Group without course registration.
Before You Arrive
Before you arrive for FOCUS, take a look at the Accepted Student Checklist, provided by the Office of Admissions. This checklist will tell you everything you need to get done prior to checking in. Please make sure that you have completed your checklist, missing items may delay your check-in process. Bookmark it or print it out so you don't miss anything!
Parent and Family College
We are so excited to welcome you and your student into the Stetson family. To best help you with your Hatter’s transition to college, we will host our annual Parent and Family College. This program provides all the information and tools needed to establish a strong support network for your new Hatter. Topics covered include, but are not limited to:
- COVID-19
- Safety
- Academic Support
- Career Readiness
- Dining
2022 Parent and Family College Presentation
- How to Support Your Student Academically
- Stetson's Career Journey
- Bookstore
- Dining Services
- A Second Home - Residential Living and Learning
- Commuter - Balancing a Life and Home and at Stetson
- Building a Safe and Healthy Campus Community
- Support and Challenge Your Student
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can my parents and family stay while in town?
We don't allow parents and family members to stay in the residence halls with students during FOCUS. Find out more information about area lodging, including a variety of accommodation styles and price levels in and around the DeLand area.
For any further questions please contact us at [email protected]