University of Virginia
EN-2: Student Orientation

Starting in 2016, all student Orientation Leaders participate in a full hour-long training session on sustainability. From definitions of the word to resources that students can take advantage of at UVA. During each orientation session, OLs could then answer questions about sustainability & hand out reusable water bottles to all attendees. UVA Sustainability staff tabled next to the student ID station, sharing resources including green dorm tips, sustainability-related courses for first years, clubs they could join, and more.

Prior to move-in, a Green Living Guide is placed in each room in the new students' packet of information. The UVA Green Living Guide was created specifically for new UVA students & covers energy, water, recycling and waste reduction topics as well as ways to get involved with sustainability programs. In addition, we work with Resident Assistants (RAs) to hand out magnets with recycling instructions. RAs were also given magnets with fall sustainability events and campaigns plus relevant packets for their bulletin boards so that they could create programming and boards that align with these themes.

Partnerships are also key in sharing sustainable resources with brand new students. Parking & Transportation includes its alternative transportation information, including ZipCar and UBike programs, at orientation events in which we often co-present. UVA Dining encourages students to sign up for the reusable to-go box & the Cupanion reuse incentive programs at the start of the year. Plus, parents and students have their meals in the dining halls, where there is prominent information about local, organic, vegetarian, and fair trade options.

Finally, throughout orientation and the first few weeks of class, we heavily promoted a new Green Living Certification Program, in which students living on Grounds commit to 20 green actions and receive rewards and recognition. 174 students participated in the first semester of this program & got their rooms green certified.

UVA has 2 orientation types, one in the month of July and one during move-in at the start of the fall semester. Students get their classes scheduled, tour Grounds, and meet fellow students in the summer session. The orientation at move-in covers more immediate logistics. There is also a host of Welcome Week activities for new students.