Q: Where and how do I experience campus at orientation?

Students spend much of orientation at the Illini Union. As incoming students, they may have lunch outside or in the food court in the basement. They will also be able to see where they will be able to study, see concert and shop once they are students.
Ned Mulka The Daily Illini

It’s your first day on campus as a University of Illinois student. This will surely be an overwhelming day. Here is a rundown of everything you need to accomplish when visiting Campustown.

It’s your first day on campus as a University of Illinois student. This will surely be an overwhelming day. It is crucial to your existence on campus that you learn the basics of the area. Here is a rundown of everything you need to accomplish before leaving Campustown.

It is important to eat lunch outside. Having lunch in the cafeteria in the Union does not provide you with any kind of college atmosphere at all. Instead, opt to eat on the Quad. This will allow you to better acquaint yourself with an area you will be spending much time at. The Quad is the epicenter of college life. Perhaps grab some shade under a tree and enjoy your surroundings. On a hectic day such as this, it will be nice to take a load off.

After lunch is finished, look for the orange trailer due south of the union. This orange trailer is where football season tickets can be bought. Game day at Illinois is a special time that every student should experience.

Make sure to take the time to familiarize yourself with the landmarks on campus. Often, these landmarks, rather than streets, are used to find a friend’s location. The landmarks worth noting are the places that students spend the most time at. Learn the locations of the Alma Mater, The Undergrad Library, the soon-to-be-called Ikenberry Commons (more commonly referred to as the Six-Pack), Memorial Stadium, Assembly Hall, Foellinger Auditorium and the local campus bars.

Once you are able to navigate campus, head over to the residence halls you are living at next year. Get a feel for the room. This will allow you to better plan what to bring and what to keep home.

Following these easy steps will instantly submerse you into the college culture. Now you might understand what all the hype is about.