Before the academic year begins, we offer a series of summer sessions that answer the many questions we know you have about life at Columbia. Though not formally required, we strongly encourage you to attend all webinars relevant to you. They contain essential information that will make your transition easier and help you navigate both your school and the larger university. Many of these sessions include live Q&As with students and faculty, where you can receive direct replies to your questions.
The summer webinar series will run from July 15 through August.
Our online sessions are broken into two parts: Academics at Columbia and Life as a Columbia Student. There will be an introductory session at the beginning of each part. We strongly encourage you to attend these introductory sessions! In the week following, we'll offer a series of optional panels and presentations that dive deeper into each topic. Registration is required for each session. Upon registration, you will receive a link for the event.
For students who are unable to attend all sessions, we will provide links to the recordings on this page. You'll see them posted within a few days after each session takes place.
Note: If you encounter an error that displays "This meeting is for authorized registrants only. Please enter another email address," create a Zoom account that is associated with your new Columbia email address first, then return to the sign-up page.
Everything you need to know about course offerings, academic advising and succeeding as a student.
Academics at Columbia Introduction
Thursday, July 15 1:00 p.m. EDT
Learn about the rich course offerings, unique class experiences and academic advising, resources and support that will inspire your intellectual interests.
Watch a recording of this event:
Introduction to the Core Curriculum
Monday, July 19, 12:00 p.m. EDT
Columbia College students can join a conversation with current Columbia College students about what to expect in the Core Curriculum.
Watch a recording of this event:
Navigating SEAS
Tuesday, July 20, 1:00 p.m. EDT
For incoming first-year Columbia Engineering students: Get an overview of your academic requirements and recommendations on how to construct your initial schedule.
Watch a recording of this event:
Academic Integrity: How to "Wear the Crown with Honor"
Tuesday, July 20, 3:00 p.m. EDT
As you begin your college journey, one of your responsibilities will be to become familiar with the academic culture at Columbia and our academic integrity values. Join us for this introduction to some of Columbia's academic support resources and academic integrity expectations. You'll also hear from students members of the CC-SEAS Integrity Advisory Board who will lead us in a discussion on how to "Wear the Crown with Honor" at Columbia and share how they choose to do so on a daily basis. Q&A will follow with the director of Academic Integrity, staff from Student Conduct & Community Standards and student representatives from the CC-SEAS Integrity Undergraduate Advisory Board.
Watch a recording of this event:
Pre-Health Curriculum
Wednesday July 21, 12:00 p.m. EDT
Learn what it's like to be a pre health student and how you can meet the requirements for medical school and other health professions. All Columbia College and Columbia Engineering students considering pre health programs should attend.
Watch a recording of this event:
Faculty Perspectives on Finding Your Academic Path
Thursday, July 22, 11:00 a.m. EDT
Join us and faculty members from across the disciplines (humanities, social sciences, sciences) who will speak in this panel discussion about the courses they teach, their work with undergraduates outside of the classroom, their views on the adjustments students need to make to succeed academically at Columbia and more.
Watch a recording of this event:
International Student Academic Advising Tips
Friday, July 23, 9:00 a.m. EDT
This session will address international students’ frequently asked questions about American academic culture and how to navigate academic life in the U.S. Students will have the opportunity to ask questions for this and other sessions in advance. This interactive session is open to all newly admitted undergraduate students and will be particularly helpful to those who identify as international students and who are new to the U.S.
Watch a recording of this event:
Essential information for incoming students, from finding balance in your schedule to exploring the city.
Life as a Columbia Student Introduction
Thursday, July 29, 1:00 p.m. EDT
Join the Dean of Undergraduate Student Life and current students as they discuss the day-to-day experiences of Columbia students, how to find community on campus, and what they look forward to, as we transition back to an in-person setting.
Watch a recording of this event:
International@Columbia Student Panel
Friday, July 30, 9:00 a.m. EDT
Studying at an American school can present unique challenges for international students. Join this session to learn about virtual and in-person resources that fellow international students have found helpful during their time at Columbia University.
Watch a recording of this event:
Financial Aid 101
Monday, August 2, Noon EDT
This session will address the topics such as the bill for the fall and spring terms, financing options, finding a job on campus and applying for financial aid in future years. The session will also introduce you to the Student Service Center and will explain how this office differs from Financial Aid and Educational Financing and which office to go to for your different financial needs.
Watch a recording of this event:
Life on Campus
Tuesday, August 3, 1:00 p.m. EDT
Join members of the Residential Life team as they discuss day-to-day living in the residence halls, how to create community where you live, and what they look forward to, as we transition back to a full residential community.
Watch a recording of this event:
Making the Most of your CC Alumni Community
Wednesday, August 4, Noon EDT
Wondering how you can make the most of Columbia College's vast alumni network during your undergraduate years and beyond? Hear from Columbia College alumni, staff, and current students about the resources and programs available to connect you with alumni, and learn about how you can access these resources and programs – whether you are looking for one-to-one alumni mentorship, identity-based alumni communities, help on your internship/job search, or all of the above and more!
The Columbia College Alumni Association is your network of over 52,000 alumni who have come before you. Through this network you will find an abundance of advocates, supporters, and sounding boards. You will have access to mentors, intellectual programs and events, and of course, an array of opportunities to celebrate and unite with Columbians who are proud of the Columbia College experience.
Connecting with your SEAS Alumni Community
Wednesday, August 4, Noon EDT
Learn how to connect with the Columbia Engineering alumni community and engage with alumni leaders. Hear about the resources and programs available to students, and how our panelists navigated their Columbia experiences.
Watch a recording of this event:
Our Slice of the Big Apple
Thursday, August 5, 1:00 p.m. EDT
Join current students as they share some of their favorite places around campus, Morningside Heights, and New York City. They'll also be sharing tips on how to navigate the Big Apple and make it your home.
Watch a recording of this event:
Diversity in the U.S. and You
Monday, August 9, 4:10 p.m. EDT
Learn a broad overview of terms to know as it relates to conversations about diversity in the U.S. A few topics that will be covered include: the importance of diversity for the Columbia community, how we define ourselves, and how others define us. This interactive session is best for those who have not lived or studied in the U.S. for five years or more.
Watch a recording of this event:
Understanding Gender and Sexuality in the U.S.
Wednesday, August 11, 10:00 a.m. EDT
Join in and learn about Gender and Sexuality in a U.S. context. The importance of this topic, terms to know, transgender basics and more will be presented by CC/SEAS Multicultural Affairs staff. Questions are welcome and will be reviewed at the end of the session. This session will NOT be recorded.
Banking in the U.S.
Friday, August 13, 10:00 a.m. EDT
Opening a U.S. bank account is not hard if you know what to expect. Should you get checks? What should you look for? We will share general information about what international students need to open a U.S. bank account, banking terms that are helpful to know, what options are available for college students, and information about common financial scams.
Note: Columbia's on-campus banking partner offers low-cost, full-service bank accounts for Columbia University students. Santander ATMs are located on the 2nd floor of Lerner Hall, next to Cafe 212. ATM access is only available during building operating hours.
Watch a recording of this event: