A Critical Hit: Reimagining New Student Orientation through the Lens of Dungeons & Dragons

Christina Hilburger, Mandi Shepp, and Katelynn Telford, State University of New York at Fredonia 

Marketing Libraries Journal volume 9, issue 1, pages 75-111.

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Abstract: In response to the return to in-person activities following the COVID-19 pandemic, institutions of higher education are exploring innovative methods to re-engage students. This article focuses on the reimagining of an academic library’s New Student Orientation (NSO) event with elements from the world of Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) to enhance student engagement, foster partnerships, and expand outreach efforts. By creating an immersive orientation experience inspired by D&D, this program aimed to promote belonging among incoming students. This article presents insights into the planning, implementation, and outcomes of this case study. By incorporating student-centered activities and opportunities for active learning into their programs, librarians involved in NSO programs can effectively promote library resources while enhancing library visibility among incoming students.

Keywords: academic libraries, orientation, student engagement, gamification, role-playing games, dungeons & dragons (game)

Citation to article:

Hilburger, C., & Shepp, M., & Telford, K. (2025). A Critical Hit: Reimagining New Student Orientation through the Lens of Dungeons & Dragons. Marketing Libraries Journal, 9(1), 75-111. https://journal.marketinglibraries.org/spring2025/05_MLJv9i1.pdf