New Student Orientation

Congratulations on your admission to New World School of the Arts! We are excited for you to join the NWSA community. New Student Orientation is an extensive introduction to the academic and campus life at NWSA.

The orientation process includes steps to provide you with information, resources, and opportunities that support both your academic and social transitions to college.

During this week-long experience, you will learn about the NWSA/MDC campus, become familiar with academic policies and course planning; learn more about student services such as financial aid, advising and registration; meet the deans of your division; get to know your fellow classmates and current student leaders; and become acquainted with Downtown Miami.

All newly admitted NWSA students (first time in college and transfer) are required to attend New World School of the Arts’ New Student Orientation.

To register for New Student Orientation, students are required to pay the $25 non-refundable orientation fee. If you are experiencing financial hardship, please contact Naché Atkins at natkins@mdc.edu, to evaluate a waiver of the orientation fee.

Students should review and complete the items on the New Student Checklist before attending Orientation.

Parent/Student Orientation

The first day of New Student Orientation is designed to assist new families understand the New World School of the Arts experience. On this day students and parents will be able to witness current students and faculty performances and receive important information about financial aid, safety, and student life at NWSA. The remainder of Orientation week is for students only.

New Student Orientation FAQ’s

How do I access my UF or MDC email?

MDC - Once you are admitted to MDC, go to mdc.edu, click on Student Portal, and click on create a student account.

UF – Once you are admitted to UF, you will receive an invitation code via email (the email address used on your application) to create your Gatorlink account. Once received, go to my.ufl.edu, click on “Access MYUFL”, then click “create account”, enter UFID and Invitation Code. If you have not received your invitation code by email, call the Helpdesk at 352-392-4357. Remember, once admitted, UF only communicates to students via your UF email account, you will not be able to forward your UF email to another email address.

Are meals provided during Orientation?

Pre-packaged meals will be provided for all participating students Monday through Wednesday of Orientation Week.

When do I register for classes?

New NWSA students are contacted by their arts division to schedule advisement and registration appointments prior to Orientation. Division assistants will register students for their arts and academic courses. The NWSA division assistants serve as your academic advisors for your lower and upper-level courses. We strongly recommend that students utilize their NWSA assigned advisor, as they are most familiar with the NWSA curriculum. You will also have an opportunity during Orientation Week to make changes to your schedule.

MDC may contact you regarding attendance at a Miami Dade College New Student Orientation session. NWSA’s orientation serves as your onboarding experience, you may attend the MDC orientation at your discretion.

I need to move to Miami, how can I find out about off-campus housing?

Please refer to our Housing Guide and to our Roommate Finder application. The Roommate Finder is a way for future students to find suitable roommates and living arrangements in the Miami area. Students who turn in / email their Roommate Finder application will be placed on a list serve and will receive listings for available housing as they come available.

Who do I call if I have more questions about NWSA and the admissions process?

Student Services Department, Naché Atkins at natkins@mdc.edu or 305-237-3472

International Student Services (I20 and Visa information):

MDC – International Students Office, 305-237-7993

UF – International Student Services, 352-392-5323