Freshman Connection at Northwestern State University is a one-day or overnight orientation to ease your college transition, connect you with resources, meet faculty and students, register for classes, and prepare you to thrive.
What to Expect
Your First Year at NSU.
The first year of college is a time for exploration and growth. At Northwestern, we support you every step of the way, with resources and programs designed to help you thrive academically, socially, and personally. From your first day on campus to your final exam, we’re here to guide you.
Check out the 2026 Freshman Connection dates below and get ready to join the Demon family. Registration opens Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at 9 a.m. in your myStatus portal—your one-stop hub for admissions, financial aid, housing, and orientation info.
2026 Freshman Connection Dates:
- Session 1: May 20-21, 2026
- Session 2: May 27-28, 2026
- Session 3: June 17-18, 2026
- Session 4: July 9, 2026
- Freshman Connection CENLA: June 23, 2026
- Freshman Connection Leesville: June 24, 2026
- Freshman Connection Shreveport: June 25, 2026
We can’t wait to welcome you this summer—your journey starts here!
Family Day
NSU Family Day brings students, families, and the Northwestern State community together for a fun-filled day of Demon spirit, campus exploration, live entertainment, and cheering at Turpin Stadium. Celebrate with loved ones and experience NSU life!
Presidents Leadership Program
Why Join PLP?
Since 1975, NSU’s President’s Leadership Program (PLP) has helped first-year students grow into confident, engaged leaders. PLP focuses on leadership as a skill—not just a title—by connecting students with staff, mentors, and peers through workshops, service, and campus involvement. You’ll develop your personal leadership style, sharpen communication and teamwork skills, and build lifelong friendships while making a meaningful impact on campus.
Who Can Apply?
PLP is open to full-time, first-year students of any major. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until late summer. Group interviews are typically held in the spring.
Alpha Lambda Delta
Alpha Lambda Delta is a national honor society that recognizes academic excellence among first-year college students. At NSU, eligible students who earn a 3.5 GPA or higher during their first semester are invited to join.
Membership offers opportunities for leadership, scholarships, community service, and campus involvement. Being part of ALD connects you with like-minded peers who value academic success and student engagement.
If you feel you are eligible and did not receive an invitation, please contact the chapter advisor, Reatha Cox, Director of Student Affairs, at coxr@nsula.edu.
Letters From Home
“Letters from Home” at Northwestern State University lets parents send heartfelt messages of encouragement and love to their students. Stay connected and bring the comfort of home right to campus—because sometimes, a few kind words from family make all the difference. Keep the support strong, no matter the distance.
