Do I have to attend Bearcats Bound Orientation (BBO)?

Yes. Attending Bearcats Bound Orientation (BBO) is essential for new students to get acclimated to campus, meet other new Bearcats, and learn more about UC. 

Can I bring guests with me to BBO?

Yes, of course! Guests are welcome to attend your in-person Bearcats Bound Orientation at no extra charge. You can register guests when you sign up for your BBO date. 

Will my guests be with me the whole time during in-person Orientation? 

During the in-person part of BBO there may be times where students and guests are split up to attend different sessions. If split up, students and guests will meet back up in a general audience session later during the program.

What does the New Student Fee cover? 

The New Student Fee covers the cost of the BBO program and various first year programming initiatives. This includes, among other things, orientation activities, support of Student Orientation Leaders, the BBO mobile app, central advising support and services, transfer and test credit evaluation and processing.

When do I pay the New Student Fee?  

The New Student Fee is added to your first semester bill and will be paid when you pay your bill. 

Will lunch be provided at in-person orientation? 

Yes, lunch will be provided during in-person Orientation in one of our campus dining halls.

Will parking be validated for in-person orientation? 

Yes, upon check-in for the day, you will receive a parking validation ticket with your BBO materials. 

What should I do if I change my major?

If you change your major before attending your in-person Orientation session, you should reach out to your Student Orientation Assistant (SOA) once you have been notified that the change process has been completed. Your SOA will check if you should keep your in-person Orientation session or change it, depending on your new major.

If you change your major after attending an in-person Orientation session, please contact your academic advisor for your new major for next steps.

Who do I talk to if I still have questions? 

You may contact your Student Orientation Assitant (contact information available via your Bearcat Portal) or the New Student Orientation Office by emailing us at orientation@uc.edu or calling us at 513-556-2486.