New Student Orientation at the University of Michigan School of Public Health provides incoming students at all levels pertinent and timely information so you feel prepared to navigate your Michigan Public Health journey. All eyes are on public health at this time, and your pursuit of a healthier, more equitable world for all begins now. Orientation consists of a mix of events, activities, and digital programming, including access to helpful websites and online resources. The events and activities occur during the week of August 24, 2026.
Below is a list of Orientation programming and resources that we encourage all incoming students to engage in.
New Student Welcome Session
Wednesday, August 26 at 10:30am
During this in-person session at the Lydia Mendelssohn Theater, you'll hear from key School of Public Health leadership, learn from community members who will support you throughout your journey, and have the opportunity to interact with other incoming students.
Our goal is to build excitement for your journey at Michigan Public Health by exploring the culture, co-curricular activities and people of our school. Lunch will be provided immediately following the session at Mosher Jordan Dining Hall.
Questions?
Please connect with your Department Program Coordinator.
Important Dates Summary
- 9/7 | No classes in observance of Labor Day
- View the 2026-2027 Academic Calendar for more important dates.
Welcome from the President of the Public Health Student Assembly
On behalf of the Public Health Student Assembly (PHSA) and the entire student body,
welcome to the University of Michigan School of Public Health!
Congratulations on your admission. You are joining a community of students, faculty, and staff who are committed to improving the health of individuals and communities through research, service, advocacy, and innovation. We are excited to have you here and can't wait to see what you'll contribute.
Over the next few years, you'll learn from incredible faculty, work alongside classmates
with a wide range of experiences, and explore the many paths public health offers.
No matter your concentration, you'll be challenged to think critically, collaborate
with others, and find meaningful ways to improve the lives of those around you.
One of the things that makes Michigan Public Health so special is its people. Every
student arrives with a different story, perspective, and set of experiences. Those
differences strengthen our community, push us to think in new ways, and make us better
public health professionals.
As you begin this next chapter, I'd like to leave you with three pieces of advice.
Lead with curiosity. Stay open to new ideas and never be afraid to ask questions. Some of your greatest learning experiences will come from conversations that challenge your thinking and introduce you to perspectives you had never considered.
Learn beyond the classroom. Your education is not limited to lectures or assignments. Take time to connect with classmates from other departments, attend campus events, get to know your professors, and build relationships within the community. Public health is built on collaboration, and some of your best ideas will come from working with people whose experiences differ from your own.
Do not wait to graduate to make a difference. The work of public health starts long before you receive your diploma. Get involved in research, volunteer in your community, join student organizations, advocate for causes you care about, and look for opportunities to put what you're learning into practice. Every experience helps shape the kind of public health professional you will become.
Starting graduate school is exciting, and it can also feel overwhelming at times. Remember that you do not have to navigate it alone. PHSA is here to support you, connect you with fellow students, and help you make the most of your experience at Michigan Public Health.
We are thrilled to welcome you to our community. I hope your time here challenges you, inspires you, and gives you lasting friendships, unforgettable experiences, and the confidence to make a meaningful impact wherever your career takes you.
Welcome to the University of Michigan School of Public Health, and Go Blue!
Juliana Taylor
PHSA President
Population and Health Sciences MPH '27
PHSA email: [email protected]
