Academic year kicks off at BU with Orientation

BRANDON – Brandon University (BU) is bustling with activity today as hundreds of new students have arrived for their first day at BU.

Two weeks of Orientation activities kicked off today with events geared specifically at making first-time BU students feel comfortable on their new campus.

“The first day of university is extremely exciting for a student, but it can also be overwhelming,” said Courtney Adams, BU’s Director of Recruitment and Retention. “Orientation is all about giving students important information that will help them succeed this year, helping them get to know our campus, our services and one another, and of course having some fun and celebrating this new chapter in their lives.”

After they were welcomed to campus today, students embarked on campus tours, followed by a barbecue and entertainment. More information sessions and introductions to the people and the services on campus were scheduled for this afternoon.

Brandon University has more than 900 first-time students for the 2018-19 academic year, with early numbers suggesting a sixth consecutive year of growth in total enrolment. The population at BU will continue to grow on Wednesday, with the first day of classes and more Orientation activities planned.

“We really want to keep people busy and enthusiastic during these first two weeks,” said BU Orientation Coordinator Rebecca Driedger. “Many of our students are just getting settled into their new surroundings, and some of them are even adjusting to a new country. By providing them some free meals and activities we can ease the pressure of the transition.

“And whether you are new to Brandon or a senior student making some new friends at Orientation will make the year much more enjoyable.”

Orientation events range from light-hearted fare like board games and a scavenger hunt to important information about campus services and staying happy and healthy while at university. Special events are planned to help international students become acquainted with Brandon and Westman, while the Brandon University Students’ Union, the Indigenous Peoples’ Centre and the BU LGBTTQ* Collective are also organizing social and cultural events. Returning to the Orientation calendar this year is the Battle on the Border, a fun challenge between students and BU and Minot State University that is slated for Sunday, Sept. 16 at the International Peace Garden.

“We pride ourselves on the wide range of services, amenities and educational opportunities that we are able to provide as a small university,” Adams said. “Orientation showcases a sample of just how much is happing at BU throughout the year, and how much support is available to students, all in one fun-packed, two-week time frame.”

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