Student Life

Welcome to Student Life!

College is about more than just going to class—it's about discovering who you are, meeting new people, and making the most of your experience. Student Life is where those opportunities come to life!

Whether you're looking to make friends, build your résumé, develop leadership skills, or simply have some fun, there's a place for you at Northeast State. Getting involved helps you build confidence, create lasting memories, and develop skills that will benefit you long after graduation.

Explore all the ways you can connect with campus:

• Student Activities 
• Student Clubs and Organizations
• Leadership
• Voter Registration

You don't have to do everything—but we encourage you to try something new. Step outside your comfort zone, discover new interests, meet lifelong friends, and create a college experience that's uniquely yours.

The Student Life & Engagement team is here to help you find your place on campus and make the most of every opportunity. We can't wait to see you get involved!

New Student Orientation

Starting college is exciting—but it can also feel a little overwhelming. That’s why New Student Orientation is so important!

Orientation is designed to help you feel comfortable and ready for your first day at Northeast State. During your session, you will explore campus, meet staff who are here to help you, learn about important technology and resources, get introduced to academic and student support services, meet other new students and start making connections.

By the end of orientation, you’ll feel more prepared, more connected, and ready to begin your college journey with confidence. We’re excited to welcome you!

Important Information

Orientation is not the same as class registration. You will not register for classes during orientation. If you still need to register for classes, please schedule an appointment.

Orientation Dates (Fall 2026 Students)

Blountville Campus (9:00 AM – 1:30 PM)
Full program—arrive on time and plan to stay for the entire session.

• August 12  (9:00 AM – 1:30 PM)
• August 18  (9:00 AM – 1:30 PM)
• August 20  (9:00 AM – 1:30 PM)

Elizabethton Campus
Full program—arrive on time and plan to stay for the entire session.

• July 17 (12:45 PM – 4:00 PM)

Kingsport Campus
Full program—arrive on time and plan to stay for the entire session.

• July 21 (9:00 AM – 12:15 PM)
• July 21 (12:45 PM – 4:00 PM)

Register for Orientation

Register Now for New Student Orientation

Need Help?

• Accessibility accommodations:
  Call 423-279-7640 or email Accessibility@NortheastState.edu
  (Please request at least 7 days in advance.)
• Questions or changes to your orientation date:
  Email StudentLife@NortheastState.edu

The Bear Cove - Student Lounge

The Bear Cove Student Lounge is designed for students to use for studying, socializing, eating, relaxing and lounging in between classes. In the Bear Cove you can also check out some athletic equipment such as tennis racquets, pickleball paddles, footballs, and basketball balls just to name a few. This space can be reserved for meetings on Fridays only.  It is located in the General Studies building room C1114.

For more information call 423-354-2416 or email StudentLife@NortheastState.edu.

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