Student Ceremonies
New Student Orientation
New Student Orientation is overseen by the office of Student Success and Retention to ensure new students have a smooth transition into their program at Sonoran University. New Student Orientation programming is strategically designed with input by the Admissions Office and the Learning Specialist in conjunction with program Deans. Orientation is a way for new students to meet other students, become familiar with student services, register for their first quarter, and familiarize themselves with the academic rigor of their program. Orientation activities include but are not limited to, Canvas training, MySonoran overview, policy and procedures review, and more.
ND New Student Orientation contains both virtual and in-person elements. MS New Student Orientation is completed online. As part of onboarding to Sonoran University all new students are enrolled in a New Student Orientation course through Canvas. This course remains open to students for the duration of their program as a source for all resources and software training tools.
ND Stethoscope Ceremony
The Stethoscope Ceremony, led by the Dean of Students Office, formally welcomes new ND students to Sonoran University's community by presenting them with the ubiquitous instrument of the medical professional, the stethoscope. The ceremony also introduces these future doctors to the basic medical sciences faculty, who will be critical in preparing them for their next milestone, the transition into clinical practice. Current students, staff, and other faculty also join in this celebration of our newest ND students.
ND White Coat Ceremony
The White Coat Ceremony, led by the Dean of Students Office celebrates the ND student’s achievement of a major milestone in their medical program and signals the advancement to the clinical experience. Eligibility for White Coat Ceremony and permission to enter the patient care environment requires the following:
Sonoran University Commencement
Sonoran University celebrates the hard work and achievements of its students with a Commencement Ceremony at the conclusion of the Spring quarter in June and the Fall quarter in December. Graduating students will purchase all academic regalia, with the exception of honors recognitions. The event is free and open to all family and friends, as venue space permits. The graduation ceremony is preceded by various, program-specific award ceremonies.
University Reception
The University Reception is an on-campus celebration taking place a few days before the semi-annual Commencement Ceremony. The reception, hosted by the Sonoran University Alumni Office in conjunction with the program deans, gives students and their guests an opportunity to meet their classmates, faculty, administrators, and alumni, take tours of campus facilities, and celebrate their academic achievements during the Awards Ceremony. All colleges and programs are encouraged to meet and mingle as future graduates of Sonoran University.