“We want students to attend the sessions so they will know what resources are available to them,” de la Teja said. “We want to connect them to the idea that there are support services here and that we encourage the students to use them.”

Scheduled for 9 a.m., vice chancellor for student success Joy Gates-Black will be the first of two keynote speakers to speak for the day. Gates-Black has worked for a number of colleges including community, private and public universities. 

Following a free lunch at 11:30 a.m., Juan Hernandez will also speak. Hernandez is best known for his work with Mexican President Vicente Fox when he headed the Office for Mexicans Abroad.

Hernandez also has been a regular guest on CNN, Univision and Fox News.

Director of student development services Paula Vastine said this year’s orientation will be more student-involved than in previous years.

“This is something we’ve worked on since summer to make it more spectacular for students,” she said. “This is the first time that we will be giving out prizes.”

Students who participate during the breakout sessions will have many chances to win prizes, such as gift certificates, T-shirts and backpacks.

The finale is scheduled 2:30-3 p.m. in Center Corner where grand prizes will be handed out. Those eligible for these prizes (notebook laptops) must participate throughout the whole orientation.