Parent/Guardian Orientation

Parent Orientation runs in conjunction with Saint Xavier University's orientation program for first year students; Freshman Orientation Centered on University Services (FOCUS).

We hope you will be able to join your student during his or her FOCUS sessions for all the special programs we are developing just for SXU parents!

Parent Orientation Frequently Asked Questions

What are the FOCUS and Parent Orientation dates for 2008?

All sessions are Tuesday to Wednesday.

  • Session 1: June 17-18
  • Session 2: June 24-25
  • Session 3: July 15-16
  • Session 4: July 22-23

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What is Parent Orientation and why should I attend?

Parent Orientation is two-day introduction to college life and a great chance to connect in your own way with Saint Xavier. You will have opportunities to meet with the leadership of the University, talk to staff, faculty, students, and other parents, as well as ask those important questions. Check-in begins at 9:30 a.m. on Day 1 and activities continue throughout the evening. You are even welcome to stay overnight on campus for a small fee if you would like! Day 2 sessions start at 9:30 a.m. and end by 4:00 p.m. Parent Orientation for up to two parents/guardians is included in your student’s $100 nonrefundable FOCUS fee. This includes meals and program materials, and offers you insight into the experience your son or daughter will be having at SXU.

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Is attendance at Parent Orientation mandatory?

Although it is highly encouraged that you attend, attendance at Parent Orientation is not mandatory. However, student participation in FOCUS (including the overnight stay in the residence hall) is required for all first-year students.

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How and when do I register for Parent Orientation?

You may register online, by e-mail at focus@sxu.edu, or by calling (773) 341-5060. You will also receive an invitation in the mail in early February. You may register anytime, however, please plan to register at least two weeks prior to the session you plan to attend.

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Do I have to attend the same session as my student?

This is certainly encouraged. If you are unable to attend the same session as your students, you are welcome to attend an alternate session.

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What if I need a special accommodation?

There is an area on the Parent Orientation registration form for you to indicate your need for an accommodation. Please indicate access issues, dietary needs, sign language interpreter, or anything that we can do to make your Parent Orientation experience successful. To speak with someone about any accommodation requests, please call the Department of Campus Life at (773) 341-5060 or e-mail us at focus@sxu.edu.

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What types of sessions will I attend during Parent Orientation?

At Parent Orientation you will meet representatives from various offices and learn about Financial Aid, the Health Center, Counseling and Career Services, the Shannon Athletic Center, Campus Ministry, Public Safety and more! You’ll also learn about how you and your student can make tuition payments, information about computing on campus, and about important policies such as the Code of Student Conduct and SXU’s Parental Notification Policy. You’ll have an opportunity to meet President Dr. Judith A. Dwyer, Vice Presidents, Deans, and faculty. You can even hear from others who have parented college freshman and share in their experiences. To top it all off, you’ll enjoy some evening entertainment and sample Saint Xavier’s unique, Mercy hospitality.

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How much will Parent Orientation cost?

The FOCUS Orientation fee for your student is $100.  This nonrefundable fee covers the two-day program costs for your student and up to two parents/guardians. If you plan to stay overnight on campus, the room charge is $35 per room single occupancy and $55 per room double occupancy.

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What if I can only attend one day of Parent Orientation?

Please plan to attend any portion of the program for which you are available! We certainly would rather you attend for part of the program than none. In the past, some parents/guardians found it convenient to split the days, with one parent attending Day 1 and the other attending Day 2.

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Do I have to stay overnight for Parent Orientation? Where will I stay?

You do not have to stay overnight for Parent Orientation. However, orientation is a two-day program, and we realize you might like to stay close by. We are offering rooms on campus or you may wish to stay at a local hotel. If you do wish to stay on campus, you will stay in Alumni Inn or in one of the SXU Residence Halls. The room charge is $35 per room single occupancy and $55 per room double occupancy. Overnight accommodations on campus are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. When you register for Parent Orientation, you will have an opportunity to request on campus accommodations. Please note room charges are nonrefundable if cancelled less than 24 hrs. prior to an orientation session.

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How do I get to SXU, where do I park, and when should I arrive?

Click here for directions to the Chicago campus (printable campus map (PDF)). Parking is readily available on campus and you will be allowed to park overnight if you are staying on campus. No special permit is necessary. Check-in for Parent Orientation will be in the Warde Academic Center L Wing, McGuire Hall lobby at the library’s entrance (see map for location) and begins at 9:30 a.m. Students will register in the lobby of Regina Hall.

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What should I bring to Parent Orientation?

Please plan to wear casual, comfortable clothes. You may wish to bring a bag to hold the various handouts and materials you collect. We will provide you with a folder, scratch paper, and a pen. We also suggest you bring a sweater or sweatshirt as our rooms can get cold. There will be an opportunity to work out on Day 2, so bring athletic wear if desired.

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Will I be with my student during orientation?

No. We have intentionally designed separate programs that address the very different issues that students and parents have and the type of information they need. This program design allows your son or daughter to begin the college transition process by working independently, socializing, and adjusting to the SXU community. There will be a few opportunities during the program for you to connect with your student.

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Will I be able to assist my student during orientation with advising and course scheduling?

No. Your student’s schedule will be determined according to the responses that he or she provides on the academic survey completed during FOCUS registration. Students will have the opportunity to review their schedule, learn about academic policies, and speak with academic advisors during Day 2 of FOCUS. Parents will have an opportunity to meet with academic advisors during a special advising information session on Day 1.

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Can I bring my younger children to Parent Orientation?

Many of the sessions will be tiresome for youngsters. No daycare or babysitting is available. We respectfully request that only parents/guardians attend Parent Orientation. Only students who plan to enroll at SXU for fall may participate in the FOCUS student sessions. All others must participate in Parents Orientation.

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What if I have questions about Parent Orientation or my student’s FOCUS session?

Please call the Department of Campus Life at (773) 341-5060. You may also e-mail us at focus@sxu.edu.

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