University of Florida
EN-2: Student Orientation

Orientation – known as UF Preview – is a requirement for all incoming students, whether they are transferring from another institution or entering UF as a freshman. UF hosts a number of Preview sessions throughout the summer in order to orient these approximately 9,000 incoming students each year.

UF Preview has taken strides to incorporate more sustainability efforts over the past several years. Efforts are taken to reduce waste at meals by using reusable plates and silverware. Recycling of cans and bottles is also encouraged throughout orientation. Students are also provided dinner at one of the two campus dining halls, which incorporates a number of sustainability efforts, including: tray-less dining (to reduce food waste and water/energy use); the incorporation of local produce and products; fair-trade coffee/tea; vegan and vegetarian meal options; reusable to-go containers; and collection of pre and post-consumer food waste for composting.

Preview attendees are encouraged to fill their reusable bottles at one of several large water coolers provided by catering and located outside of the auditorium where the first Preview welcome session takes place. As the Preview attendees go about their day, they are provided ample opportunity to refill their water bottles at filling stations and water fountains throughout campus. To support the use of reusable bottles, preview attendees are encouraged to participate in the Cupanion Fill It Forward program during orientation (described below).

For 2017 and 2018, the Office of Sustainability (OoS) staff participated in the extensive training required for all orientation leaders (Preview Staffers). In this training, OoS staff provided information about topics including sustainable transportation options, recycling and reuse, volunteer opportunities, and more. Office of Sustainability staff also provided each of the staffers with wallet-sized "cheat sheets" to supplement the comprehensive guidebook that contains information from numerous UF departments, including the Office of Sustainabilty. Additionally, the Office of Sustainability staff provided Cupanion stickers to every Preview Staffer to distribute to incoming students during Preview orientation. The stickers feature a barcode that allows students to participate in the Cupanion #FillItForward program which offers incentives for using reusable water bottles on campus. This program has proved to be a great way to engage incoming and ongoing students on topics of sustainability on campus.

Additionally, various sustainability facts are incorporated into the Preview tours that travel throughout campus.

General information about Preview: https://www.dso.ufl.edu/nsfp/orientation/preview/
Information about sustainability in dining halls: http://www.gatordining.com/sustainability