Frequently-Asked Questions about Student Orientation for Parents & Family

Frequently-Asked Questions

How does my student register for Orientation?

Have your student complete the online SOAR Reservation Form and payment as soon as you can to confirm your attendance. This form requires payment via credit card.

If you have a concern with this option, please contact Student Success and Career Development at 614-823-1624 or orientation@otterbein.edu.

Why should I attend orientation with my student?

The information that is shared during orientation is designed to help students be successful during their first year of college. As a parent or family member that will be supporting their student during college, the information that is shared will be helpful as the student makes their transition to Otterbein. Attending orientation is also an excellent way to learn more about the campus resources available to your students and an opportunity to meet Otterbein faculty and staff.

Will I be with my student during the day?

Students and families will begin the day together, but will split into separate sessions. Most parents and family members have different questions than students so we provide programs that fit the needs of parents and families specifically. While guests attend their sessions, students will be getting to know other new students, meeting with a faculty advisor, and learning more about being a successful Otterbein student.

How will my student register for classes?

All students will be sent a personalized link to a registration survey to their Otterbein email. Students must activate their Otterbein email to get this information. Once a student completes their survey, the Registrar’s Office will create a schedule for the student. During orientation, students will meet individually with a faculty advisor to review the schedule and make any necessary changes or adjustments.

I have questions about Financial Aid, can I meet with someone that day?

Staff members from Student Financial Aid are available to answer questions. If you have many specific questions, it is in your best interest to email financialaid@otterbein.edu to schedule a time to talk on the phone or meet virtually so your questions can be addressed individually.

We are coming from out of town, where can we stay?

We are excited to welcome you to Otterbein’s campus. If you need overnight accommodations for your visit to Otterbein, you’ll find a variety of hotels conveniently located near campus.

Westerville Hotels

Renaissance Westerville Hotel (1.5 miles)
Ask about the Otterbein Parent/Friend Rate or book your stay at a discount via the Renaissance “Neighborhood” page
409 Altair Parkway
Westerville, OH 43082
614-882-6800

Aloft Westerville Hotel (1.7 miles) Ask about the Otterbein Parent/Friend Rate
32 Heatherdown Dr
Westerville, OH 43081
614-899-6560 x7114

Nearby Hotels

Hampton Inn & Suites Columbus-Polaris (2.6 miles)
Ask about Otterbein Parent/Friend Rate
8411 Pulsar Place
Columbus, OH 43240
614-885-8400

Embassy Suites (2.7 miles)
Ask about Otterbein Parent/Friend Rate
2700 Corporate Exchange Drive
Columbus, OH 43231
614-890-8600

Holiday Inn Express Columbus-Worthington (5 miles)
Ask about Otterbein Parent/Friend Rate
55 Hutchinson Ave
Columbus, Ohio 43235
614-977-0520 (Hotel Main Number)
614-896-8452 (Direct Line)
cyannayon@EmeraldHospitality.com

Courtyard by Marriott (5.1 miles)
Ask about Otterbein Parent/Friend Rate
7411 Vantage Drive
Columbus, OH 43235
614-436-7070

Fairfield Inn & Suites Columbus Polaris (2.4 miles) 
9000 Worthington Road
Westerville, OH 43082
614-568-0770

Holiday Inn Express – Polaris (2.7 miles)
8670 Orion Place
Columbus, Ohio 43240
888-465-4329

Candlewood Suites Polaris (3.4 miles)
8515 Lyra Drive
Columbus, Ohio 43240
877-226-3539

Extended Stay America (3.4 miles)
8555 Lyra Drive
Columbus, OH 43240
614-431-5522

Hilton – Columbus / Polaris (3.4 miles)
8700 Lyra Drive
Columbus, OH 43240
614-885-1600

Hilton Garden Inn (3.4 miles)
8535 Lyra Drive
Columbus, OH 43240
614-846-8884

Comfort Inn North/Polaris (3.6 miles)
8400 Lyra Drive
Columbus, OH, 43240
614-791-9700

Note: Otterbein does not in any way endorse these businesses, products, or services. This listing is provided as a resource only and are subject to change.

Remember to register for orientation!

Go to the registration form >