Your Hike Starts Here!
Welcome to Western Carolina University, your trail to success starts here! Think of your first year as a mountain hike — you’ve reached the trailhead, ready to explore. Through onboarding and orientation, you’ll find your footing, meet your team, and begin to climb at the university. Along the way, you’ll hit milestones in learning, growth, and connection — all leading to confidence and belonging at WCU.
Use the timeline below as your trail map — each checkpoint supports your journey. Lace up, your adventure begins now!
- Sign Offer/Appointment Letter
- Check in with your manager
- Where to park
- Where to report
- What to wear
- Complete Onboarding Checklist
- Schedule intake with HR
- Gather documents needed for I-9 and direct deposit
- Get your bearings and take a virtual tour of campus!
- Check out benefits and perks of the job.
- Get ready to kick off your journey at our New Employee Orientation!
- Visit the Cat Card office to get your official WCU ID.
- Meet with your supervisor and get to know your team!
- Contact the IT Help Support Center for assistance with phone and computer setup, multi-factor password authentication, print driver installation, etc.
- Customize your email signature using our Email Signature Generator.
- Visit Talent Management to view your Post Hire Checklist.
- Register for a parking pass and complete your payroll deduction form.
- Visit myWCU to submit your Leave Report or Timesheet.
- Review WCU policies and procedures.
- Schedule to attend Campus Safety Training.
- Sign up for campus emergency alerts and communications.
- Check out the University Organizational Chart to learn more about your Department and Division.
- Check in with your supervisor to discuss future goals and aspirations!
- Explore our many professional development opportunities — a great way to learn and connect with colleagues across campus!
- For Supervisors - don't forget to complete Compass Training!
- Continue exploring professional development opportunities.
- Get involved on campus by joining Staff Senate!
- Join the fun! Attend a WCU event, there’s something for everyone —
- Reflect on progress and set goals for the year ahead.
