2009 FOCUS Dates

• FOCUS 1 -- June 8-9
• FOCUS 2 -- June 12-13
• FOCUS 3 -- June 15-16
• FOCUS 4 -- June 19-20
• FOCUS 5 -- August 21
  

The day-and-a-half FOCUS program is complete with a full schedule planned for you and your parents/guests. Day One runs from 8:30am to 8:30pm with further activities at night for students.  Day Two includes events between approximately 8am and 2pm. Download the full schedule below. You will receive more information and a registration form via mail in early March.

FOCUS Forms

FOCUS Schedule - Get a sneak preview of what to expect on orientation day.  The following PDF files (5.5 MB each) detail each scheduled item and provide biographies of orientation assistants: Student Schedule and Parent Schedule.

Early Arrival Information - This document is mailed to each student who plans to arrive early at FOCUS.  Read in advance if you'd like more information about early arrival.

Housing and Tuition Deposit Form - Before registering for FOCUS, you must complete and submit this form, along with your deposit payment, by May 1.

Foreign Language Placement Info - If you took a foreign language in high school and intend to pursue a major within the College of Arts and Sciences or the College of Business Administration, you will take a foreign language placement exam at FOCUS to determine the level at which you should begin your language studies at Valparaiso University.  Review the placement exam details and instructions outlined in this form, then take the placement exam between May 1, 2009 and June 1, 2009.

FOCUS Checklist - This document will help you and your family plan for your arrival at FOCUS.

Placement Exams FAQ - Learn all you need to know about taking placement exams at FOCUS.

Residential Life Planner - Learn about what you should and shouldn't bring to campus this fall, as well as review the layout of your future room.

Campus Map - Explore Valpo's campus!

Fall FOCUS Registration Form - Print, complete and mail this sheet, along with the FOCUS fee, by August 7, 2009.  Please note that Fall FOCUS is only for those students who did not attend a June FOCUS session.

What to expect at FOCUS?

Parents

"FOCUS functions as an important transition for both students and parents.  This well-organized, fun orientation helps both you and your student find a place in the Valpo community.  Scheduled parent events provide insight into the freshman curriculum, opportunities to meet other parents, tips on how to support your student, and a chance to explore the surrounding Valparaiso area.  You'll leave FOCUS with new friends and good memories.  Don't miss FOCUS!"

-- Becky and Rod Harris,  Byron, Wyoming

Sessions for parents include:

• College 101 -- This session will give you an introductory course on general education and graduation requirements at Valpo, as well as insight into academic advising.
• Supporting your Crusader -- College will be a new experience for your student and for you as a parent.  The staff from Valpo's Student Counseling Services offers insight into dealing with the transition to college life.
• The opportunity to have your questions answered by a variety of Student Affairs staff members.

Students

FOCUS is Valpo's required new student orientation program.  So, what can you do/learn at FOCUS that you haven't already done or already know?

• Get tips on making a smooth transition to college.
• Register for classes.
• Take placement exams.
• Hear details about campus services and student life. (How do you get your allergy shots, for example?)
• Meet your future classmates. (They're an awesome bunch!)
• Have a great time!

Focus Fees

• Student ($95) -- Includes residence hall accommodations for one night, meals, all orientation activities and materials, academic services including placement exams, academic advising, and pre-registration.
• Parents/Guests ($90 on campus/$65 off campus) -- Includes meals and all orientation activities and materials.  Please visit our area lodging and dining Web site for accommodation information.
• You are responsible for all off-campus lodging charges and for reserving your hotel room.

Accommodations

• Meals -- Three meals are provided during FOCUS, including a continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Students, parents and guests with special needs should notify the Office of Student Affairs at 219-464-5413 prior to arriving so that we may arrange appropriate accommodations for you.
• Transportation -- If you will be arriving to FOCUS by air, the Coach USA bus is available for transportation from O'Hare or Midway airports to nearby Merrillville, Indiana.