New Student Programs

The Office of New Student Programs (NSP) provides ongoing programs and services that support new students and families in transition to University of Missouri – St. Louis.

We provide a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, connect students to University resources and people, acquaint new students with institutional expectations and values, promote learning and discovery both inside and outside of the classroom, and foster pride in the UMSL community.

New Student Experience

It’s your first year at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, and you want to succeed! New Student Programs was designed to help you excel in the classroom and adjust to life as a Triton whether you're a first year, transfer, veteran, student who is a parent, or international student. Challenges? Fears? Obstacles? NSP provides you with the resources and support to overcome these barriers to success.

The FYI on NSP

people icon Your first part of this journey is participating in Orientation.

New Student Orientation (NSO) is for incoming freshman that may choose from eight, one-day sessions offered in June-August, and January for those who start in the spring. NSO is mandatory for all incoming first-time college students.
Transfer Student Orientation (TSO) is for transfers and non-traditional students with 30 academic hours or more to participate in a half day session in May-August, and January for those who start in the spring.
International Student Orientation (ISO) is a three-day orientation program in August for interntional students, hosted by NSP and International Student & Scholar Services.

T ri t o n Take-Off Weekend This is the first weekend before you begin classes on Monday. This three-day extended orientation program includes UMSL traditions, social events, building tours and informational sessions. Students will be greeted and assigned a WOW Crew Leader who will lead them through the weekend events.

Weeks of Welcome (WOW) is the University's organized welcome back schedule of events held during the first six weeks of classes. WOW is jam-packed with fun social and educational programs that will help introduce you to other students and to the campus. WOW officially begins at the Welcome Back Picnic on Sunday.

Weeks of Welcome (WOW) Adventures get out, get connected, and get to know your new home away from home! WOW Adventures provide you with a great opportunity to continue meeting new people, to continue getting to know your new community, and to continue having fun! There is a trip around the STL area available for every college student's budget, so check it out and choose your adventure!

First Year Experience Courses is a one-credit hour course for all first year students designed to emphasize the skills and knowledge that you will need to succeed in your transition to collegiate life. Current student peer mentors assist with the course and lead you in small group discussions, projects, and events through your first semester at UMSL.

T ri to n Connections includes various newsletters, social media outlets, Triton Experience Blog, network groups including Students Who Are Parents (SWAP), and many more.

Tritonsync is your online link to UMSL and will connect you with student organizations and upcoming events. Make sure to stay connected and log-in after creating your Tritonsync account at Orientation.

Learning Communities in Residential Halls Take advantage of these communities, where you can meet friends with similar academic interests, get to know your peer mentors who can provide academic support to your floor, and take classes with floor-mates in a structured learning group.

Additional Programs and events go on throughout the year to support transition to college life, including Family Weekend, Orientation Reunion, Major Minor Jam, One is Done Celebration, Student Leadership job positions, and much more!