AUK Starts the New Academic Year with a Successful New Student Orientation and Welcome Week
19th Sep 2018 | by the Department of PR & Marketing
AUK held its bi-annual student orientation where it welcomed first-time students to the AUK campus. The orientation is one of the most highly regarded events on campus as it intends to prepare students to effectively transition into university, while giving students the tools and information needed to become academically and socially successful at AUK.
The orientation was inaugurated by the Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Hanan Muzaffar who explained that, “New Student Orientation is a vital part of the holistic transition and success of a student during their university experience. At AUK, we are committed to providing an all rounded experience for our students while providing them with a smooth and enjoyable transition, as we continue to enrich their academic, extracurricular and social lives on campus.” Following Dr. Muzaffar’s opening remarks, the Provost, Dr. Rawda Awwad spoke of the timelessness of learning and the significance of diversity of backgrounds and interests in the university community, citing them as some of the reasons that make AUK proud of its community. The speeches ended with a video that highlighted the students’ achievements in their involvements, both on and off campus.
The incoming students were then led on tours around campus and got to know each other through various ice breaking activities. The tour was organized by the Division of Student Affairs that also introduced its voluntary Peer Mentor Program for this year’s new student orientation. Comprised of 12 AUK junior and senior students, each peer mentor is assigned a group of around 30 freshmen to help them acclimate to the University, take them to their first club meetings and events, assist them with finding their way around campus and guide them through the process of dealing with various offices in the University. In commenting on the success of the Peer Mentor Program, Dr. Muzaffar said, “The Peer Mentors were excited for this opportunity, saying that they volunteered for this program because of their love for AUK and their desire to welcome the new students into their community.” Following this, optional activities ranging from an art workshop at the University’s art and therapy room to a basketball game in the indoor court were organized.
The AUK orientation week continued on campus with the Welcome Week activities that encouraged student engagement within the university community. Organized by the Office of Student Life, Division of Student Affairs, Welcome Week kicked off with a barbecue by the Student Life team, photo challenge, movie night, an involvement fair which consisted of recruitment for student clubs, organizations and university departments; wrapping up the fun-filled week was a mini carnival by AUK’s Student Council.
Commenting on the success of Welcome Week, Dr. Muzaffar said, “Welcome to a new academic year at AUK new and returning AUK students, we have been eager to meet you all! Our Welcome Week activities are here to provide all students with different ways to connect and meet their new and continuing fellow students, staff and available resources at AUK. We are looking forward to a successful fall 2018 semester.”
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