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Foundations

Foundations: Vassar Immersion in the Liberal Arts

In an effort to support students of the incoming class the FLI program, in partnership with Engaged Pluralism, hosts Foundations Week. The pre-orientation was established in 2010 as a three-day program and is now a week-long. 

Foundations seeks to maximize your success and comfort at Vassar by:

  • Discussing academic expectations and realities before beginning the regular school year;
  • Providing a personalized overview of the campus, its resources, and its support opportunities;
  • Facilitating networking and mentoring relationships with peers, professors, and administrators;
  • Fostering community ties and relationships.

Foundations Week will be held August 19-24, 2024

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

Why should I attend Foundations Week?

Foundations week offers you a chance to get a head start on your Vassar career. During Foundations, you will meet professors, take mini-courses that give you a sense of the Vassar classroom, meet your classmates, learn about campus resources that will help you thrive, explore the Hudson Valley, and have lots of fun. 

Does it cost money?

There is no cost to participate in Foundations week. Just register and show up! Housing, food, and activities are all included in your registration. You are, however, responsible for the cost of getting to campus. 

Can my family/supporters come to Foundations? 

Families/supporters are welcome to attend the first day to help students check-in. There is a welcome dinner for students and their families/supporters. After dinner, you’ll say goodbye so that you can begin your week of events.

Will I be moving into the same room that I will live in for the academic year?

Yes. Unless there is construction in your room or building, you will move into your Fall housing assignment.

Will I need to leave campus between Foundations week and New Student Orientation?

No, you will stay on campus. Foundations ends and New Student Orientation begins one day later.

Can I attend both Foundations week and International Student Orientation?

Unfortunately, the dates overlap and you will need to choose one to attend. It’s important to attend the entire week of Foundations, so coming to part of the week and then going to International Orientation is not an option.

What if I can't attend Foundations?

No worries. While we would love it if you could come, you are part of FLI no matter what. During the year, there will be events and programs for you to attend and meet other FLI students. You are welcome to attend and be involved in FLI as little or as much as you’d like. But rest assured, you are on the FLI email list and will receive weekly newsletters where these events are advertised.  

What's the best way to get to campus?

If you live close enough, or enjoy road trips, the best way to get to campus is to drive with someone. There is programming for family and friends during move-in day, and it may be worth it to stay the night before at a local hotel. Of course, not everyone can drive here. The closest airport is Stewart International Airport (SWF) in Newburgh, New York. Others in the general area include:

Poughkeepsie is located about 75 miles (120 km) north of New York City. From a NYC airport, you can take an Uber or Subway to Grand Central Station, where the Metro-North trains run every 20 to 60 minutes seven days a week, and the ride up the Hudson River from Grand Central Station is less than two hours. Round-trip tickets are approximately $30-$40 (off-peak and bulk fares are less expensive). You can also buy the metro-north ticket and view the train schedule ahead of time on Traintime app.


Some airports, such as Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), offer direct express buses to Grand Central Station. One is the Coach Bus and the ticket is approximately $22.50. Carrying your luggage by subway could be hard and an Uber could be expensive, therefore the express bus is another good option and alternative.
From the Poughkeepsie Train Station, you can ride the Dutchess Bus L to Vassar College. The fare is approximately $1.75 (cash only, unless paid early online). You can see the routes and schedules here.

What should I bring with me to Foundations move-in day?

When you check-in, you will receive your Vassar ID card and your assigned Fall semester room key. You'll have the day to settle into your room. Here is a suggested packing list. Some students will bring their belongings with them in a suitcase or have them shipped to campus, while others choose to purchase the necessities after they arrive on campus. Please do not ship anything you may need on move-in day, such as pillows, linens, towels, and toiletries. Instead, bring those items with you the first day. On Saturday, there will be a trip to the Poughkeepsie Galleria, which has many stores, including a Target, to pick up any necessary supplies.