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Pre-Semester Programs

Roanoke College offers several pre-semester programs that encourage new students to get involved prior to Welcome Week. Programs ranging from service to outdoor adventure activities can help make the transition smooth and successful for any incoming students.

We appreciate students enthusiasm to participate in a variety of programs, please note that due to scheduling conflicts and overlapping dates, it may not be feasible to participate in more than one program. We encourage you to prioritize your selections based on your interests and availability. Example: students cannot participate in multiple pre-orientation programs.

Applications Open: May 1, 2024
Payments Collected (if necessary): July 1, 2024
Applications Close: July 29, 2024, or until all spots are filled, whichever comes first.

  • The Roanoke Promise

    Student holding "I'm First" button

    The Roanoke Promise is a combined pre-semester program and a living learning community for those wanting to embark on a transformative journey exclusively crafted for first-generation students. Designed for students who want to actively participate in a community where their college story is celebrated and nutured.

  • BonD

    A group of students in identical green t-shirts stand on the stairs in front of a brick wall that bears the Roanoke College seal, in blue and yellow on a white background.

    Building on Diversity is a pre-orientation program that assists incoming students with their transition to college. The program is open to any newly enrolled students who want to learn and explore diversity and multiculturalism. With the BonD Program, the incoming students are paired with a mentor that will guide their mentee through the transition process and navigate them to a successful college life experience.

  • International Orientation

    A group of young women pose for a photo in Market Square in downtown Roaonke. Brick buildings are in the background.

    The pre-orientation program for international students is held prior to the opening of school. Students do not need to sign up for this program, information will be provided to appropriate students by the International Student Services Specialist.

  • Journey

    A group of students gather around the back of an old red caboose, with some standing on the ground and others on the caboose platform. They smile and mug for the camera.

    Journey is a pre-orientation program designed to assimilate incoming freshmen resident students to college while introducing the students to the abundant outdoor recreational opportunities in the Roanoke Valley and surrounding areas. Participants meet other new students and interact with upperclass mentors who work in Outdoor Adventures.

  • Preview H20

    A male student and two female students, all wearing aprons, stand around a table where they are making a bunch of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for residents of a community shelter.

    This pre-orientation program invites you to explore your passion for helping others through various health-related pathways. This multi-day opportunity showcases a variety of activites and information about the range of health related possibilities. Moreover, it offers an opportunity to connect with faculty members and lay the groundwork for a successful experience at RC.  Discover how your diverse skills and experiences can make a difference in health, helping and a shared purpose.