admissions@gsw.edu 877-871-4594
Skip to main content

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 support resources at the institution.

Register Now

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.

Upcoming Storm Dates for Summer Entry

Summer dates are reserved for students taking courses beginning in June.

Upcoming Storm Dates for Fall Entry

Incoming freshmen beginning in Fall 2023 semester should register for one of the following dates:

  • Friday, April 28th – President Carter Leadership Program Session Full
  • Thursday, May 25 – College of Nursing and Health Sciences Session Full
  • Thursday, June 15 – College of Business and Computing 
  • Thursday, June 22 – College of Arts and Sciences
  • Thursday, June 29 – College of Education
  • Thursday, July 13th – Open to All Majors Session Full
  • Thursday, July 20th – Open to All Majors
  • Friday, July 21st – University College
  • Thursday, July 27th – Open to All Majors

    Printable Fall Entry Schedule          

    Printable PJCLP Schedule

FAQ

What should I expect?

Make sure to arrive promptly for check-in. Your session of activities includes the opportunity to explore campus, go through academic advising, select courses, and gain exposure to departments and student support resources at the institution. Students must attend one session to complete the program and be registered for courses.

Who can attend?

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

Transfer students are required to complete the Transfer Orientation process online. 

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.

Additionally, Thunder Camp is another great opportunity to further enhance your transition from high school to college. It is not required, but highly encouraged so you can get introduced to your new peers before arriving to campus through fun and interactive activities.

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

Detailed Schedule

Time

Session

8:30 am

Check In Opens Carter I Pavilion
Campus Resource Tables include: Residence Life, Recruitment and Admissions, Financial Aid, Health Center, Student ID Pictures

Coffee with the Canes Carter I Atrium
Meet and greet with fellow future Canes as you storm to your future at GSW

9:00 am

Hurricane Welcome Carter I Lecture Hall

9:30 am

Academic Advising Overview and Preparing for First Year

10:30 am

Online Platforms Computer Labs
Introduction to myGSW, authentication process, RAIN

Parent/Family Support Carter I Lecture Hall
Storm Spotter Panel Discussion "What do I need from my parents and support system?"

11:15 am

Student & Parent Session 
Students will discuss class schedules, academic program requirements, and general core requirements

12:00 PM

Lunch & Campus Tours

1:30 pm

 Parent & Student Session Carter I Computer Labs
Connecting with the Canes, discussion of dining, the Health Center, Greek Life, Student Life, and more

2:30 pm

Money Matters Carter I
Learn the ins and outs of paying for college from Student Accounts and Financial Aid staff

3:15 pm

Campus Resources Carter I
Learn more about student life, Thunder Camp, recreations and intramurals, Greek Life, and more

3:45 pm

Wrap Up Carter I
Pick up you new Canes Card and your exclusive Storm Day t-shirt

 

Register for Storm Day          Printable Storm Day Schedule