Washington and Lee University
Washington and Lee requires that all incoming freshmen and transfer students attend a four-day long orientation program, which typically begins around September 1st. During these few days you will be exposed to all aspects of W&L life. You will have dinner with your University big brother or sister; meet with your faculty adviser; get to know the men or women on your hall in your dormitory; and attend several presentations on responsible decision making presented by W&L LIFE. For more detailed information, visit the Dean of Freshmen’s website.
While the four-day orientation program is mandatory, there are a collection of trips known as the Leading Edge experience, which we strongly recommend. Beginning approximately five days prior to the orientation program, these trips allow you to get to know a smaller group of your fellow classmates. Typically, 10-15 students will make up a group and will participate in any of a number of programs from community service in the region to fly-fishing or backpacking in the local wilderness. For more detailed information, visit the Leading Edge website.
The Shepherd Alliance has partnerships with over 35 non-profit agencies and organizations across the eastern U.S., providing W&L students with valuable career experience serving disadvantaged individuals in the fields of business, community organizing, education, health care, international poverty, law, and social services.