As your student starts on a new exciting adventure to become a Wildcat, we are excited to provide you resources and connections to support their success and your growth as you navigate this new transition.
Future Wildcat Families values partnership with parents and families from the moment their student applies through the first weeks of school and beyond. We provide guidance, supportive resources, and engagement opportunities that promote student success-so families feel supported and confident every step of the way.
Join us for a series of virtual coffee chat webinars to learn more about our university, essential resources, and ways to support your student during their transition to college.
Note: All Zoom meetings will be in Arizona time (currently on MST).
Next Steps Center & Orientation
Has your student been admitted to the University of Arizona? Join us for the first Coffee Chat in our three-part Next Steps and Orientation series, focused on placement exams and the initial steps of New Student Orientation. We will explain why placement exams matter, how they support appropriate course placement, and what families should expect during this dearly phase of the transition to college. You will also learn key timelines, common questions to watch for and practical way parents and families can support their student. Information and resources will be shared by the University of Arizona’s Executive Director for Student Transitions and Customer Service.
Tuesday, February 10, 2026
4:00-4:45 pm MST (Arizona time)
Registration coming soon
Pre-Health Professions
Is your student interested in a career in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, or another health field? Discover how Arizona’s Pre-Health Professions Advising supports students from their first semester through professional school applications. Learn about the advising model, resources and experiences offered to our Wildcat students.
February 17, 2026 at 4:00 PM (MST)
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student and faculty research at u of a
Research isn’t just for graduate students! Find out how undergraduate students can get involved in meaningful research projects across all majors. Hear how faculty mentorship and research experiences help students build skills, explore interests, and prepare for future careers.
February 19, 2025 at 4:00 PM (MST)
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Financial aid
Hear from the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid for a session detailing aid offers, scholarships, and tips for planning and paying for college. During this presentation, you will learn about navigating the financial aid process, accessing the Scholarship Universe portal, and ultimately understanding how to make the most of the financial resources available.
February 24, 2025 at 4:00 PM (MST)
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Virtual orientation and support
This second Coffee Chat in our three-part series focuses on the Virtual Orientation Experience. Learn how the Virtual Orientation Experience prepares students academically and socially, what students will complete online, and how families can stay informed and engaged throughout the process. We will review important milestones, campus resources, and way to help your student feel supported as they transition. Information and resources will be provided by the University of Arizona’s Executive Director for Student Transitions and Customer Service.
March 10, 2025 at 4:00 PM (MST)
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Housing
Explore on-campus housing options and what to expect from the residential dorm experience. We’ll discuss the housing application process, timelines, and how living on campus helps students build community, connection, and independence.
March 12, 2025 at 4:00 PM (MST)
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MEAL plans
Your student's well-being starts with good nutrition. The Meal Plan Office will discuss mandatory meal plan options for students living on campus and provide an overview of meal plans, dining dollars, and Cat Cash. Additionally, we will share how students and families can access their accounts and learn about the variety of food opinions on campus.
March 24, 2025 at 4:00 PM (MST)
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fraternity and sorority programs
Joining a fraternity or sorority gives students an opportunity to meet peers, develop leadership skills, and find their community. If you and your student are curious about the recruitment process, we encourage you to attend this session. Fraternity and Sorority Programs staff will share details for fall recruitment and answer any lingering questions.
March 26, 2025 at 4:00 PM (MST)
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center for career readiness
From clubs and campus organizations to career coaching and internships—this session covers how students can get involved early and make the most of their college experience. Learn how engagement leads to personal growth, career and skill development, and post-graduation success.
April 2, 2025 at 4:00 PM (MST)
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next steps and orientation
Join us for the final Coffee Chat in our three-part Next Steps and Orientation series! This Coffee Chat will be centered on the final step in your students’ transition, Destination Arizona, and the parallelprogram , Family Quest. This session highlights what families can expect as student arrive on campus, including welcome activities, and transition programs designed specifically for students and families on campus. We will discuss how Destination Arizona helps students build connection and how Family Quest equips families with the tools and resources needed to support their student through their first year and beyond.
April 7, 2025 at 4:00 PM (MST)
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Study abroad
Encourage your student to think globally! Learn about study abroad programs available to all majors, the application process, financial aid opportunities, and how global experiences enrich students’ academic and personal growth.
April 14, 2025 at 4:00 PM (MST)
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moving your student to arizona
Hear from current Wildcat parents who moved their students to Arizona from other states. They will share their experiences, moving tips and tricks, and provide authentic guidance for the college transition. Whether your family is traveling from across the state or across the country, this session offers practical advice for moving your student to Tucson.
April 16, 2025 at 4:00 PM (MST)
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To help you and your student prepare to become a Wildcat, use this helpful resource as a guide to some key University of Arizona vocabulary used by students, staff and faculty.
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