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ROAR Day is an on‑campus orientation and advising experience designed to help you get prepared, feel confident, and start building connections before classes begin. During ROAR, you’ll meet with academic advisors, build your class schedule, and learn about essential campus resources. It’s also a chance to meet your Peer Mentors, ask questions, explore campus, and begin forming relationships with classmates, faculty, and staff. ROAR Day is an important step in your new-student journey as it sets the foundation for a smooth transition, helping you feel informed, supported, and ready to start at MSJ confidently!
All first-time and traditional transfer students are required to attend a ROAR Day. 
You can reserve your date on your Admission Status page.

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Check back soon for a downloadable schedule! 

9-10am | ROAR DAY CHECK-IN | Theatre Gallery and Lobby

The first hour of the day is spent checking in, logging into the Mount Roar app, and meeting your Peer Mentors and First-Year Cohorts. You can also use this time to confirm all details with our Admissions Team or check out some MSJ swag at the ROAR Store tables. Continental breakfast is available during this time.

10-11am | WELCOME SESSION | Theatre

The day officially begins with a welcome from our president, Dr. James H. Williams. You will also meet members from the First-Year Experience Team, The Center of Mission and Belonging, Student Government, as well as our Provosts and Academic Deans.

11am-12pm | MEET YOUR MAJORS | See Schedule for Locations

This session provides an opportunity to meet academic deans and department chairs who will introduce you to the college’s academic expectations and support resources. You’ll also gain a deeper understanding of your selected major, including its curriculum, requirements, and pathways for success.

 

12-5pm | STUDENT ROTATIONS | See Schedule for Locations

Our newest Lions will move through these rotations in their First‑Year Cohorts, guided by their Peer Mentors, ensuring support and direction every step of the way. Because your First‑Year Cohort will play a big role in your first year on campus, connecting with these classmates early helps you build community while navigating important topics together.

First-Year Topics | Cohort Classrooms
Meet your Peer Mentors and fellow cohort members while gaining an overview of how FYE and CORE courses support your transition to college. You’ll also learn how the Learning Commons offers tutoring, guidance, and academic resources to help you thrive throughout your first year.

Advising and Registration | Archbishop Altar Library
Connect with your advisor to plan your schedule and register for courses that align with your goals. During this session, you’ll also have your student ID photo taken—an important step as you prepare for your first semester.

There is one Online Onboarding task that must be completed prior to your attending ROAR Day, and it is titled STUDENT SUCCESS SNAPSHOT. You can find this task in the Academics and Advising Module.

Heart and Soul of a Lion | Mosaic Center
Reflect on the personal journey that brought you to MSJ and explore how your experiences and aspirations fit within your new academic community. This session encourages meaningful conversations with peers and helps you begin establishing your place at the Mount.

Campus Resources Showcase | Theatre Gallery and Lobby
Discover essential campus services designed to support both your academic and personal success. You’ll also have time to meet with Student Financial Services to review your options and finalize any remaining financial matters.

Lunch and Student Engagement Expo | 5/3 Dining Hall and Molloy Room
Enjoy lunch while getting to know other new students and settling into campus life. Afterward, explore a variety of student engagement opportunities that can help you get involved and enrich your MSJ experience.

 

12-5pm | FAMILY/GUEST ROTATIONS | See Schedule for Locations

Family and guest rotations are designed to give supporters a comprehensive introduction to MSJ by guiding them through key sessions that highlight academic expectations, campus resources, and the student experience. These rotations ensure families receive important information, meet university staff, and learn how to best support their student’s transition to college.

Wellness During the Transition to College | Recital Hall
This session explores how families can support students as they adjust academically, socially, and emotionally to college life. It introduces core wellness topics—such as stress management, healthy routines, and available campus support—to help families encourage their student’s well‑being throughout the year.

Supporting Your College Student | Theatre
Learn how MSJ partners with students through resources that foster academic success, social connection, and personal growth. Families will also gain practical strategies for staying engaged and informed while empowering their student to become increasingly independent.

Campus Resources Showcase | Theatre Gallery and Lobby
Explore a wide range of campus services designed to help students excel both inside and outside the classroom. Representatives from Student Financial Services will also be available to explain financial options and assist with any remaining requirements.

Lunch and Student Engagement Expo | 5/3 Dining Hall and Molloy Room
Enjoy lunch in a relaxed setting while meeting other new students. Afterward, discover clubs, events, and involvement opportunities that can help you feel connected and make the most of your MSJ experience.

President’s Reception | Joe Lion’s Grill
Join us in Joe Lion’s Grille for a warm, welcoming reception exclusively for parents, family members, and guests accompanying students. This gathering offers a chance to connect with other families and meet members of the MSJ Cabinet, Provosts, and campus leadership in an informal, friendly environment as you begin building your relationship with the MSJ community.

 

5pm | ATHLETICS SESSION | Harrington Center

Led by MSJ’s Athletics staff, this session is required for incoming student‑athletes and their parents/guests. Essential information will be provided to ensure a successful and well‑prepared start to both your sports season and academic year. Students will learn about NCAA compliance, academic expectations, and the support resources that help balance athletics with coursework, as well as meet key staff and review important guidelines.

Questions or concerns? Contact the Orientation Team at NewLionsInfo@msj.edu.