<p>My D did First Link and found it worthwhile. Small-group bonding through shared work on a service activity is an excellent idea, IMO. My H just dropped her off and vacationed in the area with my son for a couple of days, before returning for the large-scale orientation. Work commitments kept me from participation. </p>
<p>Frankly, I think the Outdoor Adventure is a particularly neat option, assuming the student is up for it. I suspect that if my D were to choose today, that’s what she’d do. But I think as a first-year she liked the idea of a bed and showers her initial days. </p>
<p>I believe the First-Linkers stayed together in a temporary house and moved into their permanent houses at “real” orientation. That was four years ago, so things may have changed.</p>