New Student Experience

Starting your journey at Kean University begins before your first day of classes. The “New Student Experience” at Kean Union is designed to guide your transition from an "accepted student" to "climbing higher” as you become an acclimated Cougar who is supported by the Kean community. This journey includes these key components: Pre-Orientation Modules, Orientation, Residence Hall Move-Ins, Welcome Week, and Freshman Convocation. 

Download New Student Experience Guide

The Digital Foundation

Before arriving on campus, your experience begins online. Pre-Orientation Modules* are designed to help you prepare at your own pace—so you feel informed, confident, and ready to make the most of your Orientation experience. 

• What to expect: You’ll explore interactive modules that introduce campus resources, student expectations, and tools designed to support your success—covering areas like campus safety, code of conduct, wellness services, and navigating campus technology. 
• The Goal: By completing these before orientation, you’ll arrive on campus feeling informed, confident, and ready to fully engage at your in-person Orientation experience. 
• Benefits: Once the Pre-Orientation Modules are completed, you will receive your exclusive swag bag at Orientation, which includes your Kean t-shirt for Freshman Convocation.  

Start the Pre-Orientation Modules

*All students at Kean Union and Kean Online will receive an email to access to the platform to log-in using your Kean email and password.

Note: Receive credit for the Cougar Climb challenge by completing the Pre-Orientation Modules.

Finding Your Place

Orientation is the heartbeat of the New Student Experience. This is where your “college experience” comes to life and you begin to see yourself as a Kean Cougar. 

• Campus Immersion: Beyond tours, you’ll participate in sessions that introduce you to our diverse campus culture and the wealth of resources available to support your mental and physical well-being. 
• Social Connection: You’ll be placed in small groups led by Orientation Leaders— current Kean students who will be your first connection on campus. They’ll guide you through the day, help you navigate resources, and make sure you feel supported as you start your journey. 
• The Vibe: Expect high energy, plenty of icebreakers, and the official start of lifelong friendships. 

All New Student Orientations (NSO) for incoming Fall 2026 Kean freshmen students has concluded. 

Note: Receive credit for the Cougar Climb challenge by attending orientation.

Establishing Your Space

For our residence students, the day you move in is a milestone during this special time period of your life. It marks a new level of independence as you navigate living on your own and defining your new environment. 

• The Move: You’ll navigate the ease of check-in with our drive-through process, meet your Resident Assistant (RA), and begin the process of personalizing your room. 
• New Family: This is your first opportunity to meet your hallmates who will become your "Res Life Family." Whether it’s helping each other carry boxes or eating your first meal together at Keanu's Kitchen, these small, shared moments build the initial bonds of your community. 

Review Residence Life

Jump Into Kean 

Once the boxes are unpacked and the orientation sessions are done, Welcome Week truly begins. Jump into Kean is a curated series of intentional social and recreational events designed to help you decompress, explore, and find your tribe. 

• Diverse Opportunities: From carnivals, Greek and student organization showcases to meet-ups and socials, there is something for everyone. 
• Relationships: Welcome Week is intentionally designed to be a "low-stakes" environment. It’s not about the busy semester approaching; it’s about discovery, fun, and identifying the unique clubs and communities that make you feel truly at home.

Note: Jump Into Kean Week is only hosted in the Fall semester.

The Formal Welcome

The annual Freshman Convocation hosted by the Division of Student Affairs formally welcomes all incoming freshmen students to Kean University. This induction ceremony marks the official beginning of your undergraduate career. 

• Tradition: Kean University leadership, faculty, staff, and upperclassmen gather to welcome you. It is a moment of reflection and collective pride. 
• The Charge: You will hear from inspiring speakers who will challenge you to think critically, take the class pledge, and make the most of the years ahead. 
• The Full Circle: Convocation serves as the "bookend" to your time here—it is the ceremonial entrance that mirrors the Commencement ceremony you will walk through in four years. 

Kean Jersey City Event Information

• Thursday, September 24, 2026*
  The day includes the ceremony and reception with a photobooth, DJ, and more.
  *Students, please wear the t-shirt you received at Orientation in August.

Review Freshman Convocation

Note: Receive credit for the Cougar Climb challenge by attending the Freshman Convocation.

Download New Student Experience Guide