Fox Orientation - Mountain Empire Community College

Freshman Orientation Experience is mandatory for all first time students.

Students will gain information about financial aid, degrees and academic planning, campus resources, navigating online systems, and take a campus tour. Completing FOX Orientation will be another step towards completing your college degree.

Getting ready for FOX Orientation and beginning your college career can be stressful. Here are a few steps you can check off to be sure you are ready:

Applied for Admissions (www.mecc.edu/apply)
Completed FAFSA (www.fafsa.gov)
Submitted all required financial aid paperwork
Met with an Advisor (Set Up an Advising Appointment)
Created your course schedule
Registered for FOX Orientation
Apply for MECC Foundation Scholarships (www.mecc.edu/scholarships)
Download Microsoft Office, Sign Up for Text Alerts and more. (www.mecc.edu/student-resources)

FOX Orientation FAQ

Do I need to make a trip to campus for FOX Orientation?

FOX Orientation is held in an in-person format which would require a trip to campus or as an online option held on Zoom. If you register for in-person, you will need to make a trip to campus. If you register for the Online section, you will receive the login information the week of your scheduled FOX session.

How long will FOX Orientation take?

FOX Orientation is scheduled for 2 hours. We will be sharing information on financial aid, degrees and academic planning, campus resources, navigating online systems, and more.

Is FOX Orientation mandatory?

Yes, FOX Orientation is mandatory. It will provide you with information to prepare you to begin your academic journey.

What do I need in order to participate in the online FOX Orientation?

You will simply need a computer/tablet/phone with the ability to access the internet and the link that will be provided to you to access the Zoom Meeting.

Do I need to do anything prior to FOX Orientation?

You should have met with your advisor and built your schedule. Once you have built your schedule and registered for orientation you have met the requisites.

Is FOX Orientation required if I took MECC classes in high school?

Yes. New students enrolling at MECC directly from high school are required to complete orientation even if they earned college credit while in high school. Orientation is important to your success as a student and provides you with a comprehensive introduction to MECC.

Will there be information provided for parents/guardians/support people?

We share information on financial aid, campus resources, navigating online systems, processes, and much more. The registration form is for students, however, if you would be more comfortable with someone attending the Meeting with you, you are welcome to do so. The in-person meetings will have limited seating, please email foxorientation@mecc.edu if you plan to have a guest attend with you.

If I cannot attend the FOX Orientation I registered for, what do I do?

If you cannot attend the session you originally registered for, please complete the registration form to select a date that will work for you. We ask that you make your best effort to keep the original date you select, but understand things can come up.

Who can I contact if I have additional questions regarding FOX Orientation?

You can always email foxorientation@mecc.edu.

Is FOX Orientation different from SDV 100: College Success Skills course?

Yes! FOX Orientation provides you with information and resources to prepare you to begin classes and navigate the online systems and feeling comfortable in the college setting. SDV 100 is a graded course that provides with you with skills and information to benefit you through your college journey. The information provided during SDV 100 is very different than what you receive in the 2-hour FOX Orientation Session.

MECC Opened in 1972
The Mascot is Fynneus Fox
The President of Mountain Empire Community College is, Dr. Kristen Westover
MECC is part of the Virginia Community College System (VCCS) along with 22 other community colleges across the state.
An Associate of Applied Science Degree is for students primarily interested in acquiring technical skills that lead directly to employment after graduation. Not intended for transfer.
An Associate of Arts & Sciences Degree is designed for those who plan to transfer to a four-year college or university.
A Certificate is awarded for career-technical programs, usually two semesters in length. They are not intended for transfer.
A Career Studies Certificate is designed for enhancement of job/life skills, retraining for career changes, and/or investigating new career possibilities. Not intended for transfer.
The MECC Faculty and Staff are available to support you and answer your questions.
MECC has a variety of resources available to assist you on your educational journey. If you have a need, reach out to see if there is a way we can be of assistance to you.