What is Destination Kent State?

Overview: Destination Kent State (DKS) is a three-step orientation program that includes Destination Kent State: New Student Orientation, KSU Kickoff and the First-Year Experience course. The New Student Orientation portion is a program for students to have an opportunity to connect with other students, become familiar with campus, get their official Kent State FLASHcard, meet with an academic advisor and register for classes. In addition, we welcome parents and guests to attend DKS to learn more about Kent State including financial aid, residence services, commuter services, and strategies to help their student make a smooth transition to college life.

Getting Started

  • It is easy to register for DKS by logging into your FlashLine account www.kent.edu and select My Lists (the checkmark icon) in the upper right hand corner. Please remember that the University enrollment fee is due, either before, or at the time of DKS registration.
  • Registration begins October 1.
  • On the day of your visit, check-in at the Governance Chambers in the Kent Student Center from 8:00 to 8:30 am. Use the GPS address 1450 Petrarca Drive, Kent, OH 44243.
  • Parking is available across from Eastway in the S-40 & S-37 lots—use your Destination Kent State Parking Pass which can be found in your confirmation email or by visiting www.kent.edu/destination.

DKS Program Fees

Students

Payment of the $150.00 Enrollment Fee is required before a student can register for the Destination Kent State program.

Families

Parents and family members are encouraged to attend the DKS program at no additional cost.

What to Bring

  • Government issued photo ID
  • FlashLine login and password
  • Sweater or jacket
  • Umbrella and comfortable shoes—we travel around campus rain or shine

Placement Assessment

Programs that require math and/or foreign language will require students to complete a placement assessment prior to coming to orientation.

Students should review their checklist by clicking My Lists (the check mark icon) the upper right corner of FLASHline to determine which placement assessments are needed. Online assessments are available now.

So you are best prepared for DKS, all placement assessments MUST BE COMPLETED NO LATER THAN 3 DAYS BEFORE your DKS visit.

Visit this page for more information about placement.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I do not feel a need to attend Destination Kent State. Is the program mandatory for new students?
A: Yes, the Destination Kent State program is mandatory. Destination Kent State: New Student Orientation is designed to help you feel more comfortable when you begin classes. At Kent State, we believe in giving students the tools they need to succeed. We make a special effort at Destination Kent State to provide critical information for both commuter students and residence hall students.

Q: What should I do if I want to change my major prior to or after attending the program?
A: If you decide to change your major, contact the Admissions office at (330) 672-2444 as soon as possible. It is best to make the changes prior to making your appointment for Destination Kent State so that you can meet with the advisor for your major. If you choose to change your major prior to attending, but after you have already made your reservation for Destination Kent State, please contact the Admissions office at (330) 672-2444. Changing your major may necessitate changing your reservation for the DKS program. If you decide to change your major after attending DKS, contact your academic advisor.

Q: I have taken Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate tests in high school. How do I get credit for these exams?
A: Kent State awards college credit for Advanced Placement exams with scores of three, four, or five. The Honors College website (www.kent.edu/honors) provides specific information about scores and credit. If you asked the College Board to send your scores to Kent State, your scores will be evaluated in early August when Kent State receives the score report. You will see credit posted onto your Flashline transcript by early September. Kent State awards college credit for most International Baccalaureate exams with scores of five or higher on higher-level exams. Ask your high school International Baccalaureate coordinator to send a copy of your exam report to the Honors College. For more information, go to www.kent.edu/honors and check the IB information link under Academics and Research. Tell the college advisor you meet with during Destination Kent State about the tests you have taken so they can accurately advise you about coursework. Bring your unofficial transcript to DKS.

Q: I took college courses while in high school (either at Kent State or another college/university). Do I need to attend DKS?
A: Yes. Any student who took advantage of post-secondary enrollment option, Advanced Placement, CLEP or International Baccalaureate exams while a high school student, regardless of the number of hours transferred to Kent State, are required to attend the Destination Kent State program. Bring your unofficial transcripts for post-secondary credits.

Q: Is it possible to change my reservation for the Destination Kent State: New Student Orientation?
A: Yes. Please log back on to the FlashLine web portal and your Student Checklist to change your date, add a guest or add an early arrival request.

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