New student orientation is often the first point of connection between students and their institution. When strategically designed, orientation can move beyond information-sharing to establish belonging, build relationships, introduce resources, clarify expectations, and connect students to campus communities. This panel brings together three Student Affairs professionals leading distinct CUNY orientation models: Angela Francis (CUNY School of Professional Studies), Alyssa Hollywood (John Jay College of Criminal Justice), and Shahreen Laskar (Borough of Manhattan Community College). Panelists will explore how orientation can respond to diverse student populations and institutional contexts while supporting connections before and during the transition to college. Drawing on student involvement, integration, and transition theories, the panel will examine welcoming practices, resource communication, family engagement, relationship-building, pre-orientation outreach, and first-semester engagement. Through discussion and audience participation, panelists will share promising practices, challenges, assessment strategies, and lessons learned for strengthening orientation as an entry point to belonging and student success.