Orientation is much more than finding your classrooms, new students at Brandon University discovered today.
With most classes getting underway tomorrow, today’s Orientation sessions were set aside for incoming new students to get to know each other and the campus, while learning about the support services available to help them have a great and successful first year.
“I remember in my first year Orientation was pretty exciting,” said Joelene Biletski, a Student Leader who is now volunteering to help this year’s new students get their bearings on campus. “It’s really helpful. You meet all the deans and interact with the other students in your faculty. The campus tours are a big help, too.”
Many individual programs have introductory sessions for new students to meet with faculty and each other. There are also sessions for mature students, Indigenous students and international students, plus a special session for family and parents of the incoming students. All students will also benefit from an information fair, a health and safety session, and a free barbecue lunch, with music in the BU courtyard.
“This is an exciting time of year at BU, and it is an important time as well, and we need to do all we can to make sure that it isn’t overwhelming or bewildering,” said Katie Gross, Dean of Students at BU.
“Orientation helps make sure that students know their way around the campus and know all the supports available to them, while having fun and making new friends — so they can get off to the best start possible both academically and socially.”
Brandon University is expecting about 800 first-time students this year. While that’s down slightly from last year, the overall student population is on track for a three per cent increase.
More events to welcome students to campus continue all this week and next. Along with Brandon University events, many Welcome Week events are also organized by the Brandon University Students’ Union.
Students who will begin their studies at Brandon University in Winter Term (January 2020) will have an opportunity to attend an Orientation of their own on Jan. 3.
Contact
- Brandon University
- communications@brandonu.ca
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Success is built at Brandon University. Our growing, progressive campus welcomes a diverse and inclusive community that combines proud tradition with shared ambition. Through our excellence in teaching, research, and scholarship, we educate students to make a meaningful difference as engaged citizens and leaders. Join us at BrandonU.ca.