DKS Information

Discover what Destination Kent State is all about! Learn more about what to expect, what to bring and what to know before arriving on campus.

So, What Happens During DKS?

Or, a better question might be, what doesn't happen during DKS? During DKS, you and your guests will be immersed in the Kent State experience from the moment you set foot on campus. You will eat in our fantastic dining halls, make friends with fellow DKS attendees, connect with current students and if you attend summer DKS, you'll even get to sleep in one of our residence halls!

The most important part, however, is that you will meet with your academic advisor to schedule your classes.

You'll attend programming that discusses important topics, including financial aid, housing, commuting, and health and safety. You'll also attend an information session with your academic college and pick up your FLASHcard, which is your student ID.

Parents and guests will attend programming centered on how to best support you during your transition to university life. They will also explore campus and take care of any business while here.

DKS is an exciting event jam-packed with everything you need to feel confident on your first day of class.

What to Know and What to Bring

Select the term you will start classes to learn more.

I'm starting in the fall semester

What do I need to know?

From May through July in the summer before you start classes, you will attend your two-day orientation program where you will get to spend the night on campus in the residence halls! There are also one-day sessions offered in July and August.
Orientation runs from approximately 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on the first day and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the second day.
If you plan to bring your parents or guests, they must be registered. They can request to stay overnight on campus in one of our residence halls. Orientation for parents and guests runs from approximately 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on the first day and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the second day.
A light breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided. An additional fee is charged for guests who wish to stay in the residence halls. Parents and guests will be separated from students in the residence halls.

What do I need to bring?

You will need a photo ID so you can get your FLASHcard, which is your student ID.
Bring a pillow, blanket, water bottle and comfortable walking shoes. The residence hall is air conditioned, and towels and sheets are provided. The DKS program happens rain or shine, and you will be walking around campus. Please check the weather and bring appropriate gear.
You must have your FlashLine user ID (your university email ending in "kent.edu") and password with you to register for your courses. We strongly recommend that you get comfortable with logging in to FlashLine prior to attending DKS.
If your parents or guests are attending, they will also need to bring a pillow and blanket if they plan to stay in a residence hall.

I'm starting in the spring semester

What do I need to know?

Taking place in November and January, you will attend your one-day, in-person orientation program.
Orientation runs from approximately 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for both students and guests.
Parents and guests do not need to register to attend.
A light breakfast is provided and you will have an opportunity to eat lunch with your parents or guests in our dining halls.

What do I need to bring?

You will need a photo ID so you can get your FLASHcard, which is your student ID.
Bring a water bottle and comfortable walking shoes. The DKS program happens rain or shine, and you will be walking around campus. Please check the weather and bring appropriate gear.
You must have your FlashLine user ID (your university email ending in "kent.edu") and password with you to register for your courses. We strongly recommend that you get comfortable with logging in to FlashLine prior to attending DKS.

Ready to Register?

Registration for DKS opens on Feb. 1 for incoming fall semester students and Oct. 15 for incoming spring semester students. You can register for your preferred date in your applicant portal through your personalized student checklist.