Sat, Aug 23, 2025, 9 am –Sun, Aug 24, 2025, 8 pm MCAD Campus Undergraduate Admitted Student Event Image We're excited to see you on campus this August. Saturday will have events for both students and their families/supporters, while Sunday orientation is for students only. Saturday, August 23 In-Person Orientation for Students and FamiliesThe Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) reception hall is on the third floor of the museum. Please look for directional signage. Other orientation locations are on the MCAD campus. The following schedule is subject to change. 9:00 a.m., Registration Mia Reception HallRegister for orientation and enjoy muffins, coffee, and juice compliments of Student Affairs.10:00 a.m., Welcome Mia Reception HallOpening remarks presented by Gwendolyn Freed, MCAD President. Cartoonist and full-time faculty, Robert Algeo talks about creativity and succeeding at MCAD.11:00 a.m., Getting Grounded at MCAD (for students only) Auditorium 150 Director of Student Life Brett Smith, Director of Student Counseling and Wellness, Kate Goodman, Director of the Learning Center, Timothy Gardener, and a panel of students offer a glimpse of life at college. From campus events to the things you need to know about the city, there is a lot to learn and explore here. Get the low-down on how to thrive from current students. Questions are encouraged!11:00 a.m., A Student View of MCAD Mia Reception HallA panel of current MCAD students will share their perspectives about going to college at MCAD, living in the Whittier neighborhood, internships, working, and more. Bring your questions and concerns. Noon, Lunch MCAD LawnCompliments of Student Affairs. Make sure to visit the Art Cellar to check out MCAD gear too!1:00 p.m., Meet your Mentor (for students only) MCAD Auditorium 150You have met them online, now say hello in person! An introduction to the MCAD Peer Mentor Program; current students who are your resource for questions (and answers) throughout orientation and the academic year. 1:00 p.m., College Bound Mia Reception HallOrientation can be stressful for families too! Director of Student Counseling and Wellness, Kate Goodman and Academic Affairs Vice President, Melissa Rands, will offer a few words of wisdom and answer any questions you have regarding what to expect in the coming year—both for your student and for yourself.2:00 p.m., Thriving at MCAD Mia Reception HallMCAD has a strong support system for students. In this session you will become familiar with academic resources, tutoring, accommodations, and counseling on campus. Say ‘hello’ to Melissa Rands; Vice President of Academic Affairs, Jay Gould; Chair of Foundation Studies, Kate Goodman; Director of Student Counseling and Wellness, and Timothy Gardner; Director of the Learning Center. They will cover campus resources and scheduling appointments for assistance.3:00 p.m., Closing Remarks and Campus Tour Mia Reception HallA warm goodbye and an informal tour designed families and guests to learn about the MCAD Campus. Incoming students will receive a more in depth tour later in orientation. Sunday, August 24In-Person Orientation for Students Only!The following schedule is subject to change.10:00 a.m., Hello MCAD! MCAD Lawn Start the day with music and food! Featuring Taiko Arts drumming for an unmissable morning.11:00 a.m., All the Majors of MCAD Auditorium 150 An enticing overview of the different majors and departments at MCAD. Academic Advising Coordinator, Tannah Frawley, and the Department Chairs will show you what major you can choose to focus on and how to go about declaring a major. Learn about the minors to add a bit of flair to your education!Noon, Peer Mentor Theatrical Revue Auditorium 150 A ridiculously informative skit! The peer mentors recap orientation information and provide a glimpse into life a t MCAD.12:30 p.m., Lunch MCAD Café Compliments of Student Affairs.1:00 p.m., Resident Meeting Auditorium 150 Know your rights (and responsibilities) as an MCAD resident. Get tips for living with new roommates and neighbors as well as an overview of MCAD housing policies.2:00—4:00 p.m., Mentor Adventure Auditorium 150 A tour of the campus! Find all of the resources you will be using at college. Be prepared for some fun surprises too! Times are staggered, so stay in touch with your mentor for the details of where and when your tour departs.6:00 p.m., Mandatory First Building Meetings MCAD Lawn Organized by building. Required for all residents.8:00 p.m., Movie Night Auditorium 150 Hosted by the Mentors & RAs. Open to all students! Transportation and ParkingFind out how to find us and where to park. Lot C will be open and available for all guests of the college to park during Saturday's Orientation event.