PRE-Orientation offers incoming Sewanee freshmen the opportunity to get to know Sewanee in a unique and exciting atmosphere. While familiarizing themselves with the 13,000-acre Domain, students meet other freshmen and upperclassmen in an environment that creates trust and establishes new friendships.

Whether rock climbing for the first time, walking through winding passages of Multi-Level cave, or building a house for Sewanee Outreach, PRE-Orientation provides memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.

During PRE, 200 students will get the opportunity to participate in three of the following events: rock climbing, caving, hiking, ropes course, canoeing, and community service. All students will enjoy activities at Lake Cheston, which include volleyball, swimming, canoeing and two overnight excursions. PRE concludes with Casino Night, which includes a live band and fun dress.

Who Participates?

PRE-Orientation is intended for incoming freshmen and transfer students.

Cost

$250 (Please mail a check to Sewanee Outing Program, 735 University Avenue, Sewanee, TN 37383-1000. On the check please indicate the student's name.)

Financial Aid

Aid is available on a need basis. To apply, please enclose a letter with a specific request stating the amount of aid necessary for you to attend PRE.

Arrival

Students need to arrive at Sewanee on Wednesday, August 21 between noon and 4:00 p.m. University shuttles will be available from the Nashville airport for arrivals between 10:00 am and 2:00 p.m. The best plan is for the student to arrive on their own via plane or car on August 21 and have their parents meet them here on campus at their dorm room on the morning of Saturday August 24. Note: Participating in the Pre allows you to move directly into your permanent dorm room.

To Apply

1. First, complete the PRE Application
2. Second, complete the Required Forms

Other Helpful Documents include a Gear List and Driving Directions to Sewanee.

Sports Conflicts

If you are involved in varsity sports, please check with your coach to be sure your pre-training schedule allows you to attend PRE. Football, field hockey, soccer and volleyball currently conflict.

Parents

PRE is operated similar to a camp in that parents accompanying the participants will not be able to see them until PRE is over.  For this reason, we encourage parents to arrive on Saturday, August 24 in order to help their son/daughter completely move in to the dorms.  This is also the beginning of formal orientation. 

Those parents arriving with their son or daughter for PRE are invited to a parents' reception with Vice-Chancellor John McCardell and his wife, Bonnie, at the Vice-Chancellor's home, Chen Hall, at 607 University Avenue.  The reception will take place from 3-5 PM on August 21.

There are 200 spots available in this program. Applications will be considered on a first come, first serve basis so sign up today!