For the new university student, the first few weeks can be exciting and daunting all at once. Every year, Orientation Week helps students acclimatise to their unfamiliar surroundings, make friends and settle in for the time ahead.

As is the the custom, this year’s induction began with a welcome from Vice Chancellor Dr Max Price and Interim Dean Professor Gregory Hussey, and briefings from Faculty staff and the SRC President. The remainder of the jam- packed week included a campus tour, preparatory computer skills courses, and  informational sessions covering everything from academic courses and money matters to campus safety.

Student societies spent the afternoon on Plaza Day inviting first years’ to join their ranks 

Plaza Day, the highlight of the O-Week calendar, introduced another dimension of the university experience when students got the opportunity to join societies based on and off the medical campus. Eager to involve themselves in initiatives outside the class, scores of students signed up for various societies including SHAWCO, the Surgical Society and the Rural Support Network. The weather was also perfect for physical activity as some entertained themselves with a frisby and danced to music. O-Week was a resounding success for the Orientation Programme Planning Committee (OPPC) who worked hard to put together an informative but also fun programme with a balance of introductory academic as well as social activities. 

Juleka Sharon Mogale, a first year medical student, said she felt Orientation prepared her adequately for the semester: “They told us almost everything we needed to know and the resources available if you feel stressed or overwhelmed by the work. They showed us all the buildings and I don’t know of any situation where somebody got lost, so it was good.” 

Lorna Olckers, Chair of the Faculty OPPC, commended all involved saying that the orientation was “greatly supported by the HSSC leadership, Orientation Leaders, the Help Desk team and Student Mentors who all gave their time, creativity and energy to the programme. Thanks need to go to all of them for their commitment and hard work in making our new first years feel welcome!” 

Article by Jaquelyne Kwenda, FHS Communications & Marketing