Welcome to New Student Orientation at Santa Clara Law
You are about to begin one of the most exciting and transformative experiences of your academic and professional life. Orientation is your first opportunity to step into the world of legal education and begin building the foundation for your future. Whether you’re arriving straight from undergraduate studies or returning to school after time in another field, this moment marks a meaningful transition, and we’re glad you’re here.
At Santa Clara Law, we believe in empowering students to take ownership of their education. Orientation is designed to provide you with the information, opportunities, tools, and introductions you need to begin navigating your path with purpose and confidence.
Build Your Foundation and Take the Lead
Our orientation provides a broad overview of what to expect during your time in law school. You'll meet classmates, faculty, and staff-educators who will be part of your experience over the next few years, and for the rest of your lives. You will begin to understand the academic and professional expectations of the legal field. You’ll learn how the law school spaces operate, where to go when you have questions, and how to engage with resources available to support your journey.
Sessions are mandatory and intentionally designed, not to hand you every answer, but to point you toward the right questions. This is your opportunity to begin thinking critically, asking intentionally, and taking initiative in shaping your legal career.
Tap into Resources and Know When to Use Them
You’ll be introduced to a wide range of services and opportunities: academic advising, career development, wellness support, student organizations, and more. Orientation helps you understand what’s available so you can make informed choices and seek out what you need when you need it.
Explore the Culture and Values of Santa Clara Law
Orientation also gives you the chance to connect with the broader values and mission of our law school. At Santa Clara Law we’re shaped by a Jesuit tradition that emphasizes Competence, Conscience, and Compassion. You'll have the opportunity to reflect on how these values align with your goals and how they inform the culture of our school and profession. This is also a time to begin cultivating a sense of identity and pride in being part of a community committed to thoughtful engagement, justice, and personal growth.
Orientation Is Just the Beginning
You may not walk away from Orientation with every detail of your first year figured out, but that’s okay. Law school is a process of discovery, and Orientation is here to help you take those first steps with purpose. Use this time to connect, to observe, to ask, and to begin forming the habits of kindness, curiosity, discipline, humility, gratitude, attentiveness, integrity, ethics, and professionalism that will serve you throughout your career.
It is our honor to welcome you to the Santa Clara Law community. We’re excited for the journey ahead, and proud to be part of yours.
Orientation Locations
Parking During Law School Orientation
Complimentary permit parking is available August 11–15 for incoming students. A printable permit will be sent the week before orientation, so please be sure to check your email and display it on your dashboard before arriving.
We recommend parking in the Main Parking Garage or North Garage, both highlighted in green on the map and located near Charney Hall.