The theme has always been central to the coordination of Carnegie Mellon’s Orientation. Incorporating the theme into marketing, programming and training creates a cohesive approach and delivers a memorable experience for all involved. EMBARK was decided by the team of seven 2017 Head Orientation Counselors (HOCs). The logo was applied to booklets, signage, t-shirts, novelty items and new initiatives. Academic, administrative and student organizations also used the logo in their Orientation related events.

The 2017 Head Orientation Counselors worked to come up with a theme that reflected the excitement as well as the significance of the beginning of a college journey. We felt that this could all be captured in a single word: EMBARK. Students may embark alone or together, but we hope that they all begin new adventures during their time at Carnegie Mellon. The logo features our mascot, a scottish terrier, riding in a boat with Pittsburgh’s iconic city skyline in the backdrop. We chose to focus on the nautical journey because we recognize that college is not always best described by a linear path that may be found on land.

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WINNER OF NODA 2017 OUTSTANDING USE OF THEME - Association for Orientation, Transition & Retention in Higher Education.

~Spring 2017