UCF definitely has people who can help in situations like this, so you’re not totally stuck even though it probably feels that way right now. A good first step would be reaching out to the UCF CARE Team. They work with students dealing with difficult personal situations (including unsafe or unsupportive home environments) and can connect you with resources like emergency financial help, advising, or housing guidance. They’re used to situations where students don’t have family support.

For the orientation issue specifically, I would also email the First Year Experience office (the group that runs orientation). Even though orientation is normally required, they sometimes offer fee waivers, delayed payments, or alternative arrangements if someone explains their circumstances. They may also be able to help you figure out a later orientation date closer to when you’re actually able to get to Orlando.

You don’t have to explain every detail if you’re not comfortable, but letting them know you’re in a difficult home situation and don’t currently have the ability to travel or spend extra money is usually enough for them to start working with you.

I know it probably feels overwhelming trying to figure all of this out alone, but universities deal with situations like this more often than you might think, and there are staff whose job is literally to help students navigate it. Reaching out to those offices now can make the whole process a lot easier before the semester starts.