Lawrenceville Orientation: Why It Matters and What We’re Building Together

By Holli Olson, assistant dean of students and mathematics teacher

Every August at Lawrenceville, our campus springs to life. Pathways fill with students and families, dorm lights glow late into the night, and the quiet fields hum with excitement—and a touch of nervous energy. It’s a cherished time and a pivotal moment for our community.

Orientation at Lawrenceville isn’t merely about schedules and introductions; it’s integral to our identity. It’s where new and returning students alike are welcomed into our home, setting the tone for the year ahead. As someone who has been part of planning orientation for years, I see firsthand its profound impact on our school culture.

For new students, orientation offers a chance to acclimate—immersing themselves in our campus, traditions, and community ethos. Even returning students face new opportunities and expectations as they move up through the Forms. Orientation gives everyone space to focus on relationships, clarify expectations, and reconnect with our collective purpose before academics begin.

Why Orientation Matters

Orientation at Lawrenceville is about more than logistics—it’s about building a foundation for the year ahead. During these days, students:

• Feel welcomed and at home in our community.
• Begin forming meaningful connections with peers and adults.
• Learn how our core values guide daily life.
• Discover where to find support and resources.
• Set goals and expectations as a Form and House.

Thoughtful Programming

One of the most impactful aspects of our orientation is the intentional, student-centered programming. We design breakout sessions to meet students where they are, with topics that evolve each year. Recent highlights include:

• Core Values Ceremony: Celebrating leadership, honesty, and hard work through a student-driven flag ceremony and video.
• AI and Learning: Exploring how technology fits (and doesn’t) into our academic culture.
• Social Media & News Literacy: Teaching students to engage thoughtfully and critically online.
•  Wellness & Respectful Dialogue: Reinforcing how to care for ourselves and each other in our diverse community.

We also focus on the little things that make a big difference—like how to show up for each other’s events, greet one another, and put phones away at meals—because these habits build a respectful, connected culture.

Houses and School Spirit

At Lawrenceville, your House is your home base. During orientation, Houses:

• Establish trust and bonds between students, advisors, and prefects.
• Set goals, discuss healthy choices, and plan events together.
• Foster leadership as older students mentor younger ones.

Beyond the House, we also build school-wide spirit. Events like Bowl Cup and House Olympics reinforce that while we’re proud of our Houses, we ultimately stand united as one school.

Advice to Students

If I could offer one piece of advice during orientation, it would be show up. Lean into the awkwardness of meeting new people. Attend events, even when you’re tired. Keep introducing yourself—you’ll be glad you did.

Looking Ahead

Orientation doesn’t end after a week; it’s the beginning of the yearlong work of building and sustaining our community. When I see students walking confidently into Convocation, cheering each other on at Bowl Cup, or laughing with new friends in the dining hall, I know it’s all worth it.

Lawrenceville students, this is your home. You belong here. Let’s make this year extraordinary—together.

For more information, contact Lisa M. Gillard H'17, director of public relations, at lgillard@lawrenceville.org.