Penn Highlands CHAMPS 2026

Questions & Answers

Who should attend?

All new incoming students are invited to attend CHAMPS. It is an awesome opportunity for students to meet other students before the semester starts and help develop some communication skills to aid in first year success! If you are feeling nervous meeting new people or adjusting to college, this is the event for you!  

Is there a fee to attend?

CHAMPS is a FREE opportunity for new incoming students at Penn Highlands. 

Is it for Richland students only?

No, all new incoming Penn Highlands students are welcome to attend. However, the event is in-person at the Richland campus.  

Where do I park?

Free parking at the Richland campus is available at the front of the building in the numbered visitor spots as well as at the back of the building near the gym entrance.  

What time should I plan to arrive?

Check in for the event begins at 9:30am with the event beginning promptly at 10am.  

Can my family join me?

While there are many exciting events for your family to attend with you at Penn Highlands (including New Student Orientation), this event is for students ONLY. Won’t you join us to meet new people and make lifelong connections?  

Does this event replace orientation?

CHAMPS is a separate but fun day from orientation. New Student Orientation will be held in August for all new students.  Keep an eye out for your invitation soon!

Why should I choose to attend?

CHAMPS is a program designed to help ensure a smooth transition to college life for new incoming students, to help new students connect with other students in a stress-free environment, and to provide an opportunity for practicing communication skills and other skills important as a first-year student. So, if you want to meet other new students before the fall semester begins, if you want to feel more confident in getting started at someplace new this fall, RSVP to attend this program in the summer.

Will my professors be there?

No, instructors will be introduced to new students during New Student Orientation a little later in the summer.

Is it required?

CHAMPS attendance is not required, but it is a great opportunity to work out the nerves prior to starting the fall semester. This event will give you an opportunity to build connections with peers and be prepared to build success as a student.  

Will I get information about clubs and activities at CHAMPS?

Some information will be shared; students are invited to participate in a Club and Activity Fair during the first few weeks of the semester.  

Will I be able to ask questions about Financial Aid during CHAMPS?

Yes, there will be time after the event to speak with an expert in our Financial Aid Office. 

Will I be able to learn about the supportive services available at Penn Highlands?

Staff from the Student Success Center will be hosting this event and will be available to share their roles in providing supportive services to students. More information about supportive services will be available at New Student Orientation in August.  

Will I get a copy of my class schedule during CHAMPS?

Students should already have a class schedule prior to attending CHAMPS. However, staff will be able to assist students with printing a copy or locating it in the myPEAK app while students are on campus before, after, or during the event. If you haven’t yet built a schedule and would like to for the fall, please reach out to the Admissions Office (814-262-6446) to set up a time for testing and registration.