What is the Laker Familia Orientation?

Who is invited to participate in the Laker Familia Orientation (LFO)?

Do I have to live on campus in order to be a part of the LFO?

Do I have to speak Spanish to be a part of the LFO?

What are some of the benefits of attending the LFO?

Do I have to attend all three days of the LFO?

Is there a cost associated with the LFO?

How does the LFO make a difference?

Where can I register to be a part of the orientation?

 

 

 

What is the Laker Familia Orientation?

The Laker Familia Orientation is part of a year-round program designed to introduce new Latino/a/x and/or Hispanic students to the campus community and connect them to resources and services that will support their academic, cultural, and emotional well-being. The orientation facilitates meaningful interactions between students and faculty/staff with the goal of improving academic success, retention, and graduation. 

Who is invited to participate in the Laker Familia Orientation (LFO)?

All new students that are registered to begin classes in the Fall semester are invited to the Laker Familia Orientation. Close family members and friends are also invited to the orientation kickoff and lunch.

Do I have to live on campus in order to be a part of the LFO?

No, students do not have to live on campus. Commuters are welcome to attend the kickoff reception and all of the workshops. Free early move-in is available for students that live on campus. This is a great opportunity to beat traffic and receive help from GVSU faculty, staff, and student volunteers.

Do I have to speak Spanish to be a part of the LFO?

No, Spanish is not a requirement. Many of the students that have participated in past orientations are not bilingual. However, we do offer a bilingual (English/Spanish) welcome during the reception of Laker Familia Orientation.

What are some of the benefits of attending the LFO?
Students have a unique opportunity to make new friends, meet faculty and staff mentors, and learn about campus resources. Students will learn how to navigate GVSU as a Hispanic/Latin@/x student. Additionally, moving in early allows students to become better acquainted with the campus.

Do I have to attend all three days of the LFO?
Students are strongly encouraged to attend all three days of the orientation in order to take advantage of many of the Laker Familia benefits. Exceptions will be made on a case by case basis.

Is there a cost associated with the LFO?

No. The Laker Familia Orientation is free. The program is supported by the Office of Multicultural Affairs.

How does the LFO make a difference?
Students who participate in Laker Familia build stronger connections at GVSU, which helps them stay and graduate from GVSU. Laker Familia students also have a higher GPA and a better retention rate than non-participating Laker Familia students. 

Where I can register to be a part of the orientation?
Student can register at www.gvsu.edu/lakerfamilia or by calling the Office of Multicultural Affairs at (616) 331-2177.