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Storm Day

Storm Day Registration

We are excited that you have decided to take tomorrow by storm at Georgia Southwestern State University! One of the final steps before starting classes is attending one of our Storm Days – our registration and orientation program for freshmen. Students and staff will be here to help guide you through life on campus. The day is filled with activities so you can get familiar with your new community. Registration will close as capacity is met. Register early to ensure your first choice!

Your session of activities includes the opportunity to explore campus, go through academic advising, select courses, and gain exposure to departments and student resources at the institution. Students must attend one Storm Day session to be registered for courses.

Register for Storm Day

Upcoming Storm Day Sessions

Fall 2026 Entry

  • Friday, June 5
  • Friday, June 26
  • Friday, July 17
  • Thursday, July 30

Academics

Learn more about the majors and focus areas offered, & get financial aid questions answered.

First-Year Preparation

Learn about student involvement, meet your classmates, & sign up for your residence hall room.

Student & Parent Sessions

Log in to GSW online platforms & register for classes. Parents participate in Q&A sessions.

What to Expect

As you're welcomed to campus, please arrive promptly for check-in to ensure you receive all materials. Your session of activities includes a variety of opportunities to explore campus and learn resources available while preparing for registration.

  • Explore GSW's campus by receiving a small group tour led by one of our dedicated Storm Spotters. 
  • Gain insight on our student platforms required to succeed on campus.
  • Learn more about your major and meet students with similar majors with our catered dates for each college.

FAQ

Who should attend?

Storm Day is an orientation and registration program for all incoming freshman students. Each student may bring two guests.

Non-traditional freshmen and transfer students are required to complete the Transfer Online Orientation.

What should I wear?

Students will be taking photos for their Canes Card student ID and should wear suitable clothing for taking a photo. We also recommend wearing comfortable shoes as you will be exploring various buildings and resources across campus.

How much does it cost to attend?

The freshman Storm Day fee is $85 and will be applied to your tuition bill after registering for classes. There is also a $15 fee per guest (max of 2 guests per student) which must be paid with cash, check, or credit card during check-in.

What is the difference between Storm Day and Orientation?

For starters, Storm Day is only a few hours whereas Orientation takes place over multiple days. Both are required to ensure students are fully prepared for their first year at college.

At Storm Day, students have the opportunity to explore campus, go through academic advising, receive class schedules and student IDs, and gain exposure to departments and student support resources at GSW.

During Orientation, you'll learn more about campus resources, meet faculty in your focus areas, familiarize yourself with campus and where your classes will be held before the first day of class, meet student leaders, participate in interactive activities, and so much more. Orientation is designed to help you settle into campus life and fully prepare you for your college journey to ensure your success. On the last day of Orientation, you will attend Freshman Convocation. This is your official welcome into the Hurricane family by GSW administration, faculty, staff, and students.

Do I need to complete anything in preparation?

Once registered for a Storm Day session, students should complete the following prior to attending in order to make the most of their session:

  • Complete the FAFSA so the Office of Student Financial Aid may prepare your award letter
  • Send Dual Enrollment college transcripts to GSW as soon as courses are complete
  • Submit your photo for your new student ID if you do not wish to take one at Storm Day

Storm Day 2026 Schedule

Time Activity
8:30 AM

Check-In, Storm Dome Lobby

  • Get your student ID made and explore campus services
9:00 AM

Welcome, Storm Dome

  • Hear from GSW's administration and get an overview of the day's activities
9:30 AM

Campus Life, Storm Dome

  • Hear more about student life, Greek Life, recreation, intramurals, and more
10:05 AM

Coffee with the Canes, Storm Dome Corridor

  • Enjoy coffee, meet the FYE team, and connect with other new Hurricane families
10:15 AM

Money Matters, Storm Dome

  • Learn the ins and outs of paying for college from Student Accounts and Financial Aid staff

11:00 AM 

Academic Session, Assigned Campus Location

  • Learn more about your major, degree course plan, educational expectations, and campus resources
12:15 PM

Lunch, Marshall Student Center

  • Enjoy lunch in our Dining Hall, stop by the Bookstore, and visit with current Hurricanes and tour Southwestern Oaks, our freshman residence halls

*Students: Remember your group, as we will dismiss from the MSC

1:30 PM

Breakout Session 1

  • Students - Computer Labs, Log in to GSW online platforms, and learn about myGSW
  • Supporters - Nursing Lecture Hall, Chat with members of the GSW community
2:30 PM

Breakout Session 2

  • Students - Computer Labs, Learn about class schedules and academic requirements
  • Supporters - Nursing Lecture Hall, Chat with Dr. Michelle Johnston about supporting your student at GSW
3:30 PM

Wrap Up, Storm Dome

  • Pick up your exclusive Storm Day t-shirt and take an optional campus tour

 

Register for Storm Day