Meet your 2025-2026 Orientation Leaders. We're excited to welcome you to the UW!
Please hover over each picture to learn more about our Orientation Leaders.
What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?
One of the most valuable experiences for new students is taking the time to talk to professors and TAs during office hours. Don’t hesitate to share the challenges you face with homework or the concepts you struggle to understand. These conversations not only help clarify difficult topics but also allow you to build meaningful connections with faculty, which can open doors to mentorship, research opportunities, and academic growth.
What advice do you have for new students?
Although this may be your first time on your own, you're not alone. So many students are in the same position as you and are experiencing similar things. Reach out and say hi to someone new.
What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?
Get involved in RSOs and sports clubs, you’re definitely going find at least one that fits your interest! With so many options to choose from, it’s a great way to explore your passions, meet new people, and receive valuable opportunities.
What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?
I would unquestionably suggest the Student Activities Fair and First-year Interest Groups as two resources that greatly aided me in transitioning to UW by providing me with the opportunity to connect with individuals who share my interests and experience.
What advice do you have for new students?
Try everything! Don't be afraid to put yourself out there.
What is your favorite spot on campus and why?
I really like Orin's Place in Paccar Hall - they have really good bagels and it's a great place to study and get some work done!
What do you love about University of Washington?
What I love about the University of Washington is its combination of academic excellence and a strong sense of community. The campus is not only beautiful but also filled with energy and diversity, which makes it feel inspiring.
What advice do you have for new students?
Despite busy schedules, it is really important to keep track of your health. Eat healthy food, exercise often, and make time for your hobbies.
What advice do you have for new students?
One piece of advice I have for the new students is to not worry too much about things you cannot control. Focus on the ones that you can.
What is your favorite spot on campus and why?
Definitely suzzallo. I know it's a cliche, but it's a cliche for a reason and certainly will be for quite some time.
What do you love about University of Washington?
The UW is such a diverse place with so many spaces to find belonging. I feel like I meet new incredible people every day who challenge me to expand my thought process.
What do you love about University of Washington?
Everything! I love the beautiful campus, delicious food spots, and immense school spirit that fills every corner, especially on game days.
What do you love about University of Washington?
One of the things I absolutely love about the University of Washington is its campus, but even more than that, the beautiful community within it. There’s something magical about being surrounded by incredible people from all over the world, each with their own stories, dreams, and cultures.
What advice do you have for new students?
Get involved with UW in every way that you can whether that's by joining RSOs, creating study groups, or utilizing UW services. There are so many incredible opportunities to get engaged!
What is your favorite spot on campus and why?
Suzzallo Library and the IMA dance room - Two places I'm always at which combines my passion for dance and the Harry Potter experience
What do you love about University of Washington?
I love how the University of Washington offers a wide range of opportunities to grow both academically and personally. The strong sense of community—built through events, student organizations, and supportive resources—makes UW a place where everyone can belong and thrive.
What advice do you have for new students?
Introduce yourself to classmates! When being with the same people X amount of times per week for 10 weeks, you find yourself getting comfortable with your classmates!
What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?
Dawg Daze - It is truly the best time to connect with other students.
What do you love about University of Washington?
I love the wide variety of opportunities that UW offers! With such a big campus and student population, there are so many clubs, events, and programs for student involvement. UW has an abundance of resources to support your academic and professional journey!
What advice do you have for new students?
Explore. Always find new things to do so you are not stuck in a routine. The only way to truly enjoy every day without feeling gloomy after a while is to experience new adventures, new ideas, new places, etc.
What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?
Take the light rail/public transit and explore Seattle! The buses run so much more frequently here than in most other places, and the light rail is so great for traveling up and down Seattle! Check out the Ave and the stops along the way while you're at it.
What advice do you have for new students?
New students need not know each and every thing. It's okay to come here to campus, use the resources, talk to people and slowly adjust and adapt to the University. It's always great to ask people any queries if you don't know something. You will learn your best lessons from people you've never met.
What is your favorite spot on campus and why?
My favorite space is the Life Science building, it was something I recently discovered. The study areas are so vibrant and there is a green house that I frequently visit with my friends.
What is your favorite spot on campus and why?
I love the Allen Library because it's convenient to grab a Starbucks latte from Suzzallo before going to the other side to enjoy a quiet study session. One pro is you might find yourself in the middle of a concert.
What is your favorite spot on campus and why?
I love Red square because you can see Mt Rainer from there , the sunsets from there are very beautiful and then there is Suzallo standing in all its glory . Also I love seeing people skateboarding there.
What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?
A must-experience for new students is participating in student organizations or clubs, as they offer great networking and personal growth opportunities.
What is your favorite spot on campus and why?
Drumheller Fountain, it's just really quiet and you get an amazing view of Mount Rainier on a clear day, it’s the perfect place to take a break, reflect, or simply enjoy the beauty of UW. It’s a classic Husky landmark that never gets old!
What one thing would you say is a must-experience for new students?
Go to RSO fairs at the start of fall/winter quarter! It is a great opportunity to hear experiences current members of the club have had. Doing some research and making a list of clubs you are interested before going to the event can be helpful. You might also stumble upon an interesting club while walking through the event!
What do you love about University of Washington?
Inclusivity, diversity, opportunities, great resources, and beautiful views.
120 Mary Gates Hall Box 352825
Seattle, WA 98195-2825
Mary Gates Hall 120
Academic Year: Mon-Fri 8:30 a.m.– 4:30 p.m.
Summer: Mon-Thurs 8:00 a.m.– 4:30 p.m., Fri 8 a.m.–12 p.m.
Winter Break: Mon-Fri 8:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Commuter and Transfer Commons (HUB 141)
Academic Year: Mon-Fri 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
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Closed during University holidays.
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