Student Transitions and Family Programs
Welcome, Bulldogs!
The Office of Student Transitions and Family Programs is here to guide and support you as you start your journey at ÿÈÕ´óÈüÈë¿Ú. We serve as a resource for students and families to help with the successful transition in and through college life. Our programs and services will connect you with campus resources and provide opportunities for social engagement and exploration. Our office also offers programming and support to current students throughout the school year specifically designed for first-generation students, transfer students, and active service members and veterans.
We are delighted to be a part of your college experience. Please reach out if you have any questions.
Information for New Students
EmBark Orientation: Summer 2026
EmBark Orientation: Summer 2026
During EmBark Orientation you’ll have the opportunity to explore campus, get to know University resources, and start building your community at ÿÈÕ´óÈüÈë¿Ú! All incoming First-Year and Transfer Students are required to attend EmBark.
EmBark will be offered throughout the Summer, select your dates and register through your AVL Bound Portal:
AVLBound Portal
Over the summer, you’ll be asked to complete several tasks to prepare for your arrival on campus in August. All information about these tasks and confirmation of completed steps can be found in the Enrollment Checklist in your AVLBound Portal.
Parents and Families
We understand and appreciate the important role that parents and family members play in their student’s overall success. We value the opportunity to establish relationships with you and are here to help in any way we can. Through programming like Family Weekend, you’ll experience firsthand the sense of community and pride that exists throughout our campus. We can’t wait to introduce you to the faculty and staff who have developed ÿÈÕ´óÈüÈë¿Ú into a thriving living and learning environment for your students.
We are here to serve as a continuing resource for you. Should you have any questions or concerns, you can contact us at transition@unca.edu or 828.232.2417.
Family Weekend
Each year, we host a fun-filled weekend at ÿÈÕ´óÈüÈë¿Ú for students and their loved ones. Family members of students in any class – first-year, sophomore, junior, or senior – are encouraged to attend! Explore the beautiful campus and take part in guided tours to discover the rich history and culture of Asheville. Don’t miss the chance to meet esteemed faculty members and learn about the exceptional academic programs offered at our University. For the sports enthusiasts, we’ll have a men’s soccer game during the weekend. Get ready for an unforgettable weekend full of laughter, joy, and cherished family time.
Registration for Family Weekend 2025 is now closed. This event took place September 19-21, 2025.
The following types of tickets will be available for Family Weekend 2026:
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- Adult ticket: $50 (*if you are an alumnus of ÿÈÕ´óÈüÈë¿Ú, please include your graduation year with your last name)
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- Ages 18 – 6: $25
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- Ages 5 & under: free
*Current ÿÈÕ´óÈüÈë¿Ú students do not need to purchase a ticket in order to
435 Smokey Park Highway, Asheville, NC 28806
890 Brevard Rd, Asheville NC, 28806
1430 Tunnel Rd, Asheville, NC 28805
12 Rocky Ridge Rd, Asheville, NC 28806
62 College Place, Asheville, NC 28801
Meet Our Team
Sarah Smith
Director of Student Transitions & Family Programs
Phone: 828.251.6584
Email: ssmith27@unca.edu
Abby Genter
Associate Director of Student Transitions & Family Programs
Phone: 828.232.5131
Email: agenter@unca.edu
Contact Us
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Highsmith Student Union 301 One University Heights, CPO 1200 Asheville, NC 28804
±Ê³ó´Ç²Ô±ð:Ìý828.232.2417
·¡³¾²¹¾±±ô:Ìýtransition@unca.edu