Meet your 2026-2027 Virtual Orientation Leaders. We're excited to welcome you to the UW!
Please hover/tap on each picture to learn more about our Virtual Orientation Leaders.
What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?
One must-experience is starting a conversation with someone new. It seems small, but it can shape your entire college experience. My friend group began because I talked to a girl in my dorm lobby, and I’m so grateful I did. Sometimes all it takes is saying hello!
What do you love about University of Washington?
I love the UW campus so much. I love how it’s beautiful and peaceful in winter, giving off a classical vibe, but it is also lively and vibrant in spring; being here makes me feel motivated and proud to be part of the community.
What is your favorite spot on campus and why?
I love Denny Field because it makes me feel a strong sense of community to see large groups of people go out to sit or play together whenever the sun comes out :)
What do you love about University of Washington?
What I love about the University of Washington is its incredible diversity and boundless opportunities to get involved. With 1,000+ RSOs, hands-on research, and countless campus experiences, there’s truly something for everyone.
What advice do you have for new students?
My biggest advice is to grab every opportunity you can. Go to events, join clubs, and talk to new people—even if it feels scary. The more you try, the more you’ll grow and find what you love.
What advice do you have for new students?
Notice how passionate your peers are! This was something that really inspired me to put myself out there a little more even when I was nervous to be in such an unfamiliar setting.
What is your favorite spot on campus and why?
The quad is probably my favorite spot on campus, as walking through it to my classes always reminds me of why I wanted to come to UW, and it makes me feel very grateful and emotional.
What do you love about University of Washington?
Literally everything! I love how everyone who goes here wants to be just as good as everyone else, making the learning experience so much more valuable.
What is your favorite spot on campus and why?
Hans Rosling population health building! It's my favorite study spot on campus, with a less crowded Starbucks, many nice seats and a nice view inside. I always love spending afternoons there to get some work done!
What advice do you have for new students?
It’s okay to feel nervous but don’t forget to ask for help, there will always be someone who is willing to help you!
What do you love about University of Washington?
Something I love about the University of Washington are the people. Everyone you meet here is truly so genuine no matter where they come from. I have made some of the best friends in my life and have met so many incredible people here in my time here.
What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?
Pulling a solo study grind at Odegaard for seven hours and hitting Aladdin right after!
What do you love about University of Washington?
I love the diversity at the University of Washington! I have met so many lovely people with different lived experiences than me.
What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?
One event that I would highly recommend new students to experience is the Dawg Daze week that is full of events planned out.
What advice do you have for new students?
Be open to trying new things - you never know what new interests you could discover! I would also recommend keeping some sort of planner or assignment tracker to help you stay on top of your work and manage your time well.
What advice do you have for new students?
Don't lock yourself into one career path or area of academic interest just yet. Take your time to explore all your curiosities, interests, and passions, as college is one of the only times in your life that you will have the freedom and resources to explore multiple academic fields.
What advice do you have for new students?
Try everything! You will never regret putting yourself out there, and you might discover new things you never would have thought you would enjoy.
What is your favorite spot on campus and why?
Suzzallo Library is my favorite spot to study. It's where I often find myself early in the morning, either cramming for exams, or enjoy a cup of coffee with breakfast. It helps me feel grounded and get me ready for the day ahead!
What advice do you have for new students?
You belong! No matter how difficult your transition may be, there is always a place at UW for you. Plans can fall through and curve balls will be thrown, but never doubt your place on campus.
What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?
I think Husky Kickoff and the W photo are definitely a must-experience. It’s such a fun and memorable way to meet other new students, and getting to stand on the football field makes it feel extra special. It’s one of those moments where you really feel like you’re officially a Husky.
What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?
Visiting many of the stores of the Ave! Great cultures to share and try!
What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?
One must-experience for new students is attending the Dawg Daze carnival, it’s a really fun way to kick off the year and meet new people in a relaxed setting. I’d also recommend going bowling at the HUB, since it’s a great, low-pressure way to hang out with friends and take a break from classes.
What advice do you have for new students?
Explore. Always find new things to do so you are not stuck in a routine. The only way to truly enjoy every day without feeling gloomy after a while is to experience new adventures, new ideas, new places, etc.
120 Mary Gates Hall Box 352825
Seattle, WA 98195-2825
Mary Gates Hall 120
Academic year: Monday–Friday 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Summer: Monday–Thursday 8:00 a.m.– 4:30 p.m., Friday 8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Winter break: Monday–Friday 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Commuter and Transfer Commons (HUB 141)
Academic year: Monday–Friday 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Breaks and summers: closed
Closed during University holidays.
206-543-4905 (Voice)
206-207-5564 (Text)
New Student & Transfer Programs fosters a successful undergraduate student experience through strategic programming that focuses on positive academic transitions and the development of learning communities. Through partnerships with faculty, staff, alumni, and student leaders our programs create the space for students to define how they will engage, learn, and thrive at the University of Washington.
Support new Huskies, gain leadership experience, and make your mark at the UW! Our student employee positions are open to all undergraduate students at the University of Washington in Seattle. Follow the link below to explore our current open positions and learn more about how you can become part of the New Student & Transfer Programs team!
Leadership Opportunities
