New Student Gear Up

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Are you college-ready? Our Gear Up summer series is just for you!

Colorful promotional graphic for a summer college readiness program titled “Gear Up!” with large bold blue text on the right. At the top, green text reads “Are you college-ready? This summer…” On the left, a circular logo shows a wooden sign with the words “Empowering Your Path.” Below the heading, a list highlights target groups: “New-to-College Students,” “Adult & Parenting Students,” “Service Members & Veteran Students,” and “Students Needing Accommodations.” The background features soft gradients of green and blue with subtle palm leaf textures.

New students are invited and highly encouraged to attend one of our sessions. Choose the track that best fits you! We’re offering three sessions per track between July and mid-August before fall classes begin.

  • Get “just-in-time” info to help you as you prepare for the upcoming semseter at Laurel Ridge.
  • Options to attend in-person or virtually (specified when you sign up).
  • $50 Visa Gift Card winners at every session!
  • Let us know you’re coming. RSVP! Select your track and sign up for your session now!

New-to-College Students

Start strong and feel confident from day one.

This session is for first-time traditional aged college students (23 and under). Get oriented to Laurel Ridge tech and resources including the Student Help Hub, Canvas, and Navigate while learning how to manage your courses, plus tips for balancing college and life outside the classroom. Meet helpful college staff who’ll guide you as you gear up for your first fall semester.

Sessions:

  • Thursday, July 30, 10 a.m. (in-person)
  • Tuesday, August 4, 2 p.m. (in-person)
  • Wednesday, August 19, 4 p.m. (virtual)

Sign up!

Adult and Parenting Students

College that fits your life.

Designed for busy adults and caregivers, this session highlights Laurel Ridge’s essential tools, flexible time‑management strategies, and financial planning tips to help you juggle coursework, family, work, and personal goals—with support from staff and faculty who understand your commitments.

Sessions:

  • Thursday, July 9, 2 p.m. (in-person & virtual)
  • Tuesday, August 4, 5 p.m. (in-person & virtual)
  • Thursday, August 13, 5 p.m. (virtual)

Sign up!

Service Members and Veteran Students

Ready for Day One? Your 10-Step Game Plan.

Designed specifically for our service member and Veterans students, highlighting Canvas, Navigate, and the Student Help Hub while reviewing class schedule, syllabus, and tech resources. Bring your questions! Presented by the Laurel Ridge office of Military and Veteran Services.

Sessions:

  • Monday, July 27, 5 p.m. (virtual)
  • Monday, August 3, 5 p.m. (virtual)
  • Monday, August 17, 5 p.m. (virtual)
  • Thursday, August 20, noon (virtual)

Sign up!

Students Needing Accommodations

 

Support, tools, and strategies—right from the start.

This session introduces key Laurel Ridge systems alongside practical tips for managing your course load, schedules, and payments, with a focus on accessing accommodations and support early. Our OADS (Office of Accommodations & Disability Services) staff will help you plan ahead and build a semester that works for you.

Sessions:

  • Monday, July 27, 2 p.m. (in-person @ Middletown)
  • Thursday, August 6, 2 p.m. (in-person @ Fauquier)
  • Wednesday, August 12, 3 p.m. (virtual)

Sign up!

The Office of Student Life & Engagement does not discriminate based on physical or cultural characteristics including age, disability, national origin, race, religion, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender, or veteran status. If accommodations are needed, please contact [email protected] at least one week prior to the event date.