International Student Orientation 

A specialized orientation program for new international students is held just before classes begin each semester in August and January. 

Important Orientation Dates

Spring 2025

January 15 or 16: New International Students Arrive to Campus and Move-In. Please book your arrival to the Rochester, NY (ROC) Airport before 9 p.m. (21:00) EST. You may also arrive to the Rochester bus station or Amtrak train station.  We cannot guarantee pickup for students arriving outside of these dates and times.

January 17: International Student Orientation 

January : New Student Orientation

January 21: First Day of Classes 

Pre-Departure

Over the summer, students will receive important information by email to their Geneseo email accounts. There are important tasks to accomplish before leaving home. Check the Next Steps Checklist for more information.

The ISSS Office will schedule several pre-departure virtual check-in meetings over the summer to help students prepare for their arrival in Geneseo. 

Orientation Highlights 

Airport Pick-Up and Move-In

New students should plan to fly into the Rochester, NY (ROC) Airport on the suggested arrival dates before orientation begins. Students can also arrive to the Rochester train station or bus station if they will be traveling within the U.S. before orientation. If possible, please plan to arrive before 9 p.m. (21:00) EST on one of the arrival dates.

Students must send their travel information to the ISSS office. A staff member is assigned to meet each student in Rochester and drive them to the Geneseo campus. Current student volunteers will help each new student find their assigned residence hall room and tour the building. The ISSS office has a limited supply of bed linens for students to borrow for the first few days when they arrive.

Shopping Trip 

On the first day of orientation programming, we will take a trip to Walmart so new students can purchase things they need for their life here at Geneseo. Students purchase bed sheets and blankets, pillows, towels, clothes hangers, laundry supplies, school supplies, and many other personal items. There is also a free bus service that can transport students to Walmart and the local grocery store during the week, and to shopping malls in Rochester on the weekends during the semester. 

Opening a U.S. Bank Account 

ISSS staff will assist students with completing the paperwork necessary for opening a bank account in the United States and getting a debit card.

Presentations from Geneseo Faculty and Staff  

Students will hear presentations from Geneseo faculty and staff with many tips for success in the American classroom, On-Campus, and in general in the U.S. Topics can include:

• Meeting Geneseo faculty; Learning expectations in the American classroom 
• Understanding your course schedule 
• Living on campus 
• Health & Counseling Services; Health insurance 

Have Fun! 

Orientation is an exciting time for students to make new friends, make connections on campus, and enjoy all that Geneseo has to offer. We look forward to meeting you soon!