Students participate in a past orientation activity. (File photo/Eric Neurath)

The University of Colorado at Boulder is expecting about 5,200 fresh faces this fall, and most of them are getting a preview of college life at summer orientation.

While orientation is a time for new freshmen and transfer students to register for classes and take placement exams, it is also an opportunity for CU-Boulder's administration to outline university expectations and behavioral policies.

"CU-Boulder is a good, safe place to live and learn, and we expect new students to contribute to that," said Judy Poynter, assistant to the vice chancellor of Student Affairs. "We are making it clear that they will be held accountable for their actions."

For example, at each session Wardenburg Health Center's Interactive Theater Project, a troupe of student actors, performs "Just Another Party." The production has been shown to incoming freshmen for the last five years and presents a scenario about an alcohol-related sexual assault. After the performance, the actors remain in character to give the audience a chance to ask questions and have a conversation about what happened.

The two-day program also includes student-to-student discussion groups and Orientation Theater, which presents short skits on issues such as roommates, alcohol and time-management. An information panel is also presented, including an explanation of the Honor Code.

Student orientation leaders run much of the program and are well prepared, having participated in training seminars and briefings from campus offices.

An evening session sponsored by University of Colorado Student Union (UCSU) leaders offers advice on student life and how to get involved in the campus community.

"When you get involved it keeps you motivated," said Veronica Crespin, UCSU tri-executive. "Incoming students can enrich their college experience by trying new things and getting involved with a cause they have passion for."