Pre-Orientation Program (POP)

Our Pre-Orientation Program (POP) is a self-guided module introducing many of the topics you’ll explore during your orientation and will help prepare for your Orientation day. We recommend beginning POP soon after you’ve selected your Orientation date, but no later than two weeks before you plan to attend Orientation.

The module has a track specifically built for you as a first-year student. You’ll even learn more about what to expect during your Orientation advising appointment and the requirements for earning an NIU degree. In addition to helping you know what to expect as you get started at NIU, POP will equip you with the tools and resources you need to be a successful Huskie.

Accessing POP

  1. Log in to your Next Steps Portal with your NIU email address (ZID@students.niu.edu) and password. 
  2. Scroll down to "Complete Your Pre-orientation Program," and click on "Access POP now." 

Tips for Navigating POP

  • Be sure to have your volume turned on for the embedded videos. We recommend accessing POP on a computer. 
  • Look for words with a dotted line under them — these are Terms-to-know. If you hover over these terms with your cursor, their definition will pop up on the screen.
  • You may leave POP at any time. We'll remember where you left off!

If you experience any technical difficulties, don’t hesitate to email us at orientation@niu.edu.

Contact Us

Orientation and First Year Programs
Williston 334
DeKalb, IL 60115
815-753-1535
orientation@niu.edu

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