Families arrive on campus, checking in, finding their way around, taking it all in for the first time. Even if they’ve seen campus before, orientation is different. The decision’s been made—this is where their student will spend the next few years.

For some families, it’s the first time back since making that choice. For others, orientation comes just before move-in, when everything becomes real. In those moments, details matter. The look of the grounds, the feel of the residence halls, the clarity of campus signage—it all contributes to a sense of readiness and care.

According to a 2019 study, the quality of campus facilities plays a direct role in whether students choose to enroll and stay. That’s why our teams work behind the scenes to make sure every space feels clean, organized, and welcoming—because first impressions may fade, but the standards behind them last.

How Facilities Teams Power Orientation

Preparation

Leading up to orientation, facilities departments across campus work together to create a polished, functional environment. Key tasks typically include:

  • Deep cleaning of residence halls, common areas, dining facilities, and restrooms
  • HVAC and plumbing inspections to ensure systems are fully operational
  • Landscape updates—mowing, edging, mulching, and planting seasonal color
  • Power washing walkways, refreshing paint and striping in parking areas
  • Installing or updating signage to assist with wayfinding

This work requires close coordination between custodial, maintenance, and grounds teams to ensure that every space is ready to welcome new students and their families.

Event Support

Orientation spans multiple days and locations, often involving ceremonies, open houses, resource fairs, and guided tours. With high traffic and changing needs, facilities teams provide on-the-ground support such as:

  • Frequent trash and recycling removal to prevent overflow
  • Restroom service to maintain cleanliness and supply levels
  • Spill response and hazard cleanup to ensure safety
  • Assistance with setup and teardown of temporary staging, furniture, or AV equipment

Agility and responsiveness are critical during orientation, when unexpected issues can arise quickly.

After the Rush

Once orientation concludes, facilities crews pivot to preparing for the start of the academic term. Post-event readiness tasks often include:

  • Re-cleaning and resetting classrooms, labs, and meeting spaces
  • Disassembling temporary installations or staging areas
  • Inspecting and servicing high-use areas for wear and tear
  • Returning to a routine maintenance and cleaning schedule

This transitional period is essential for ensuring campuses are not only presentable, but also fully functional before the first day of class.

Partnering for a Consistently Great Campus Experience

Orientation is just the beginning. The Budd Group partners with colleges and universities to deliver clean, safe, and welcoming environments year-round. If you’re looking to strengthen your campus support, we’re ready to help.