Undergraduate Student Orientation Fall ’26

Friday, August 21
In-Person Orientation Sessions

All sessions will be in the Minneapolis Institute of the Arts (Mia) reception hall unless otherwise noted. The reception hall is on the third floor of the museum. Please look for directional signage. If you have not already, pick up your student ID at Campus Safety.

9:00 a.m. (Students & Families/Supporters)
Orientation Registration - Mia Target Entrance & 3rd Floor Rotunda

Register for Orientation at the Mia Target Entrance, just off the courtyard, and head to the 3rd floor rotunda to enjoy muffins, coffee, and juice compliments of Student Affairs.

10:00 a.m. (Students & Families/Supporters)
Welcome - Mia Reception Hall

Introduction from Melissa Huybrecht, Vice President of Enrollment Management , and Opening Remarks presented by Gwendolyn Freed, PhD, MCAD President. Cartoonist and full-time faculty, Robert Algeo, talks about creativity and succeeding at MCAD.

11:00 a.m. (Families/Supporters)
College Bound - Mia Reception Hall

Orientation can be stressful for families too! Director of Student Counseling and Wellness, Kate Goodman, 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.

11:00 a.m. (Students)
Getting Involved at MCAD - MCAD Auditorium 150

Student Experience Coordinator, Kate Gunther and Academic Advising Coordinator, Tannah Frawley, offer insights on ways to get involved at MCAD. From campus events to Student Clubs, Student Union, and Peer Mentor led activities, there are loads of great ways to find your community and feel at home. Plus, hear from a club leader about what it's like leading and being a part of a club at MCAD!

noon (Students & Families/Supporters)
Thriving at MCAD - Mia Reception Hall

MCAD 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, Pam Hoffmann; Director of Campus Safety, 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.

1:00 p.m. (Students & Families/Supporters)
Lunch - MCAD Lawn

Compliments of Student Affairs.

OPTIONAL:

2:00 p.m. (Students & Families/Supporters)
Move In, Continued

2:00 p.m. (Students & Families/Supporters)
Campus Tours- Meet in the Main Gallery

4:00-6:00 p.m. (Students & Families/Supporters)
Refreshment Break - MCAD Lawn

Sunday, August 23
In-Person Orientation Sessions for Students Only!

All sessions will be in MCAD Auditorium unless otherwise noted. Please look for directional signage. If you have not already, pick up your student ID at Campus Safety.

10:00 a.m.
Hello MCAD! - MCAD Lawn

Grab a complimentary breakfast in the Main Building and head to the MCAD Lawn to start the day with music and food, featuring drumming from TaikoArts Midwest!

11:00 a.m.
All the Majors of MCAD - 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 - MCAD Auditorium 150

A ridiculously informative skit! The Peer Mentors recap orientation information and provide a glimpse into life at MCAD.

12:30 p.m.
Lunch - MCAD College Center

Compliments of Student Affairs.

1:00 p.m.
Living With New Neighbors - MCAD 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. RA Panel led by Director of Student Life, Brett Smith, and Director of Student Counseling and Wellness, Kate Goodman.

2:00–3:00 p.m.
Mentor Adventure - MCAD 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.