University of Notre Dame
ER-3: Sustainability in New Student Orientation

Prior to arrival on campus, first year students are provided information related to all aspects of student life, including sustainability. The information packet provided by the Office of Sustainability includes ideas for energy efficient appliances and lighting for dorm rooms, recycling information, opportunities to get involved, information on Zipcar and other campus initiatives that impact students. In addition, the Office of Sustainability operates an information table/booth during the three day Freshman Orientation Weekend. Office staff and interns distribute free CFLs, information about sustainability on campus and dorm-specific magnets about various ways to conserve energy to incoming first year students. The incoming students are provided information and resources about the Office of Sustainability and opportunities to get involved with sustainability on campus. Additionally, an important part of orientation for first year students is the required course Contemporary Topics, which is designed to help students transition from high school to university life. The class addresses the unique demands on students and is directed towards the different dimensions of wellness. Sustainability is one of the topics covered and a short movie on sustainability at Notre Dame is shown during one of the courses. Each of the class includes a group discussion led by the instructor and each first year student is expected to participate.