Big Blue Nation Orientation welcomes UK’s newest Wildcats with energy, community and heart

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 11, 2025) — As summer winds down, excitement is building across campus. The University of Kentucky is preparing to welcome thousands of new students this fall — each one taking their first steps into college life, and into a community deeply committed to their success.

For many, that journey begins with Big Blue Nation Orientation (BBNO), a one-day experience designed to prepare first-year, transfer and readmitted students for what lies ahead. But at UK, orientation is more than a checklist. It’s a celebration. A dynamic, student-centered welcome that reflects the energy and heart of the Big Blue Nation.

“Big Blue Nation Orientation is often a student’s first real taste of campus life,” said McKaylee Copher, director of orientation and outreach. “It sets the tone by creating a welcoming environment that reflects UK’s values, empowering students with resources and confidence, and fostering connections with peers and staff. This early experience helps students know they belong at UK, and are part of a larger community here to support them every step of the way.”

During their orientation (which also includes Merit Days in the spring), students participate in a thoughtfully designed series of sessions that introduce them to all aspects of UK life. From academic advising and course registration to campus resource presentations, tabling and community-building activities, BBNO is built to inform, empower and excite.

Students meet with their college representatives to build class schedules, connect with support services like financial wellness and health and well-being, and explore involvement opportunities through resource fairs and panels. Equally important, they spend time in small groups led by peer ambassadors — returning students who offer real-world insights and personal guidance.

The goal? To ensure every student walks away not just registered for classes, but feeling confident, connected and ready to thrive. Parents and families are also invited to attend special programming to help them understand the transition and feel part of the Wildcat community.

Advancing Kentucky one student at a time

Orientation is one of many ways UK lives out its promise to Kentucky: helping students reach their potential so they can, in turn, strengthen the Commonwealth they call home.

“To support a class of this size, we had our largest number of First-Year Experience Ambassadors ever this summer,” Copher said. “These student leaders are the heart of orientation. They guide small group sessions, share personal stories, and help new students feel seen and supported from day one.”

Copher says person-to-person support can make all the difference, especially for students who may be feeling nervous or unsure.

“I want students to know — you are not alone,” Copher added. “Everyone is walking into this new unknown together, and UK is here to support you every step of the way. We are here to help you find your people, your passions and your place.”

Support that lasts beyond day one

Support doesn’t stop once orientation ends. As students transition into their first semester, UK’s commitment to their success only deepens through continued guidance, personalized services and a holistic approach to student life.

At the center of that work is the Office for Student Success, one of the largest divisions on campus, dedicated to helping students live a life of meaning and purpose. With 46 units, seven strategic areas and one clear vision, Student Success walks alongside students from early college outreach to graduation and beyond, supporting them academically, emotionally, socially and financially.

“Orientation is intentional in introducing students and families to all aspects of student success: academic support, financial stability, well-being, community and engagement,” Copher said. “It’s a holistic effort that reflects the larger university culture.”

Student Success and the many other offices and teams working across campus approach every decision with one guiding principle: students come first. That student-centered framework is rooted in national best practices, peer-reviewed research and data-informed strategy, but it’s also powered by something deeper — a true belief in every student’s potential.

A beginning that matters

As the fall semester begins, the work of welcoming and supporting UK’s newest Wildcats continues. Through collaboration, innovation and care, the university is helping students build not only a strong start, but a strong future.

Learn more about Big Blue Nation Orientation https://orientation.uky.edu/. For questions, call 859-257-3256 or email orientation@uky.edu.