• Department of Orientation
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Transfer Students

The Department of Orientation is thrilled to have you join the Brandeis community. If you have any questions or concerns, you are welcome to contact the Orientation office at orientation@brandeis.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Orientation apply to me?
How do I get classes from my previous school to count toward graduation here at Brandeis?
I'm getting emails and papers saying Class of 2016, but I should be a junior this fall. Why am I considered a freshman?
Who is my advisor at Brandeis? Do I get one as a transfer student?
How do I obtain on-campus housing?
What is the deal with phones?
How do I get to know people? How do I get socially involved?
I just want to talk to someone! Who should I get in touch with?

Does Orientation apply to me?

Yes! Orientation is geared towards students who haven't been to Brandeis before, which is every incoming student. We have programs that pair you up with your advisors, teach-ins which showcases all-star professors and give a taste of academics at Brandeis, workshops with pre-law and pre-health career professionals and much more! We have many exciting programs and social events for you to meet and greet all the incoming students.

How do I get classes from my previous school to count toward graduation here at Brandeis?

Irene Widugiris (widugiri@brandeis.edu) is in charge of transfer credits. She requires a transcript from your previous institution and sometimes a syllabus from a class or two that you have taken to apply your credits toward graduation. She can apply previous classes to Brandeis general requirements, but if you wish to apply a class to a certain major, you must contact someone in that department to get credit for a particular major.

Please note: If you believe that a class you have taken in the past should be counted for a particular requirement and it was not, speak to Irene Widugiris and come prepared with a syllabus.

I'm getting emails and papers saying Class of 2016, but I should be a junior this fall. Why am I considered a first year?

Before you have your transfer credits entered into the computer system, the computer calculates your graduation date according to your academic record. At that point, the computer sees that there are no credits to your name, and calculates eight semesters to complete the academic requirements to graduate: hence, a graduation date of 2016. When your credits have been entered into the system by Irene Widugiris, then your graduation date will be changed accordingly.


Who is my advisor at Brandeis? Do I get one as a transfer student?

Yes, each student has an advisor who will assist you with all academic issues.  Advisors frequently assist students in matters such as the selection of courses and majors, the completion of University requirements, and the development of solid study and time management skills.  In addition, advisors are excellent resources for exploring the many academic opportunities available to Brandeis students.  To meet with an advisor, you can schedule an individual appointment by calling 781-736-3470 or you can stop by Academic Services during drop-in hours every weekday between 1:00 and 5:00 pm.

Lisa Hardej, Advisor to Students with Last Names A-E
Katie McFaddin, Advisor to Students with Last Names F-K
PJ Dickson,   Advisor to Students with Last Names L-Q
Julia Moffitt, Advisor to Students with Last Names R-V
Brian Koslowski, Advisor to Students with Last Names W-Z

How do I obtain on-campus housing?

All transfer students who wish to live on-campus should complete the Transfer Student Housing Application.  The information provided in your application will be used to match you with appropriate roommates.  All applications should be completed by June 30 to receive priority.  Students must complete the housing application in order to receive on-campus housing.  For questions regarding housing options and availability, please contact Community Living at dcl@brandeis.edu or 781-736-5060.

Transfer students who wish to live off-campus can consult listings in the classifieds section on my.brandeis.edu.

What is the deal with phones?

You can request a phone through Library and Technology Services.  All requests will be filled.  Go to http://lts.brandeis.edu/techhelp/hardware/phones/students.html for more information.

How do I get to know people? How do I get socially involved?

There are numerous ways to get involved at Brandeis: you might have more trouble getting too involved! There are over 200 clubs and organizations that want you as a member. You can meet these clubs at the Involvement Fair on Monday, September 3rd from 1:00pm-3:00pm. The Division of Student Affairs are professionals who keep the social life at Brandeis running in tip-top shape, and stopping into their offices on the second floor of the Shapiro Campus Center is a great way to get involved.


I just want to talk to someone! Who should I get in touch with?

The Orientation office would love to talk to incoming students!
(781) 736-5074
orientation@brandeis.edu