I’m sure you won’t be the only one in this situation, so you can relax a bit. Orientation is useful, not only because you might meet some people before classes start, but because it reduces anxiety. However, you will do fine without it. Let the school know that you will be missing it and ask them for any information you will be missing. See if it is possible to come in on another day to pick up your schedule and locker assignment because you don’t want to fall behind before you get started. If not, make sure that you find out when the school office opens and get there as early as possible on the first day, so that you can get the information before classes start, rather than having to walk into class late! Also, I would keep my eyes open for pleasant-looking (nice, not necessarily pretty!) people, since asking them for directions should NOT be an imposition. You may even make some friends that way, either because nice people will either show you where to go or will sympathize with you because they are lost too! If you are very shy and afraid to ask for directions, practice how to do this beforehand so that it comes naturally (“Excuse me; could you tell me where I would find Smith Hall 233? Is Smith Hall one of those buildings over there?”).

Contact your school when you return. Most schools have older students who help orient new students, and they should be able to put you in touch with someone who can show you around. Good luck!

Relax. I missed mine and nothing happened–I just went to the office the first day and asked for everything I needed.

Stick with a buddy. You will get your necessary information when you are able to.