Orientation and Activities

About the Orientation and Activities office

Orientation and Activities is an office that focuses on various co-curricular aspects of Barnard College. The office coordinates both fall and spring New Student Orientation Programs that welcome and introduce first-year, transfer, visiting and international students to the College.  Building community is another essential part of this area which is primarily done through programming. On and off-campus programs are offered as ways of building relationships and gaining a sense of belonging at Barnard.

Annual programs include:

• The New Student Orientation Program (NSOP): Every new student's introduction to the Barnard and Columbia community.
• Block Party: A party on Lehman Lawn that is always hosted on the first day of classes, welcoming back students with free food and class-themed giveaways!
• Halloween Fun Zone: The office hosts a Halloween party, which entails getting dressed up in costumes, enjoying delicious treats, and craft-making activities.
• Stress Free Zone: When finals are in full swing, the office offers stress-busters to help students escape their busy study schedules and relax.

• Senior Week: Students wait four years for their final days on campus, which we call Senior Week! Join your classmates for the Senior Ball and the Senior Rooftop Event for exclusive social gatherings for graduating Seniors.
• Women’s Leadership Retreat: This retreat is offered to Barnard students to help facilitate team building, leadership development, and networking opportunities. We head to upstate New York for a weekend of fun and learning.