Unified Student Orientation: Building Community, Inspiring Connection
On Tuesday, September 9, Palo Alto University (PAU) welcomed its newest students with the Unified Student Orientation, a day built entirely around connection, community, and the shared excitement of beginning a new chapter. Students from every PAU program came together under one roof, meeting the classmates, peers, and mentors who will shape their journeys in the years ahead.
In collaboration with the Office of the Provost and the Department of Student Success, this effort was led by Dr. Samiyah Wright, Director of Academic Operations and Chanel Matta-Ortiz, Associate Dean of Student Success. Now in its second year, Unified Student Orientation has grown into a signature PAU experience, one that reflects the university’s belief that community is not just something students find over time, but something they should feel from the moment they arrive.
Building Connections from Day One
The day began with the warm buzz of new beginnings as students checked in, enjoyed breakfast, and explored swag bags filled with PAU gear and 50th Anniversary keepsakes. Energy quickly filled the room during a spirited Rock, Paper, Scissors tournament that had students laughing and cheering with peers they had only just met. It set a tone that carried throughout the event.
“This year was about deepening that sense of belonging and community among students across all programs,” said Dr. Wright. “We wanted every new student to feel that they are part of something bigger, connected by a shared commitment to mental and behavioral health.”
Throughout the morning, students participated in sessions and activities designed to spark curiosity and connection. President Farouk Dey opened with a message about purpose, curiosity, and human connection, encouraging students to view their time at PAU not only as an academic pursuit but also as part of a larger journey of growth and service.
Following the icebreaker, students heard directly from those already living the PAU experience during a student panel featuring representatives from multiple programs. Panelists shared honest reflections on navigating graduate school, building community, and creating balance, offering incoming students encouragement and insight from a peer perspective.
After the morning sessions, students flowed into the Involvement Fair and Lunch Social, where departments, student organizations, and university services introduced opportunities to get involved. Tables filled with snacks, giveaways, and friendly faces created an environment that felt welcoming and approachable. Students learned about academic supports, wellness resources, affinity groups, leadership roles, and even explored ideas for starting new organizations. The atmosphere was full of energy, conversation, and possibility.
The Start of Something Bigger
The most meaningful moments of the day were found in the spontaneous connections that formed between students, small, unscripted interactions that captured the heart of the event.
“This year, I saw students meeting for the first time, taking selfies together, arranging flower bouquets, and forming real, lasting connections,” said Dr. Wright. “That’s the magic of Unified Student Orientation.”
Matta-Ortiz added, “When incoming students engage with current students from the very beginning, it builds a sense of community that carries forward. That foundation makes their experience more positive and their learning more meaningful.”
As PAU celebrates its 50th Anniversary, Unified Student Orientation continues to reflect the university’s values and the strength of its community. As the academic year begins, the 2025 orientation stands as a joyful reminder that at Palo Alto University, community isn’t just a concept; it’s built, celebrated, and lived from the very first day.
