7 March 2011

A New Semester Begins...

Story and pictures by Michelle Kiob

“I really can’t wait for classes to start again!” exclaimed a student to her friend as the two headed to the Library and Learning Commons, possibly to get a head-start to yet another new semester.

New students on the other hand had the opportunity to get to know campus life at the week-long Orientation Week, organised by the Student Services Department, the six Schools and the Monash University Students Association (MUSA).

“The Activities chairperson, Rachel Gan, and her team, have done a great job in organising fun and interesting activities and events for the week,” Manager for Student Experience Ms Charmaine Shamalar Paramanathan said.

Through the activities, new recruits had the opportunity to meet other students from their programs, find out about the resources and facilities on campus, and go on tours to learn their way around the campus.

The Orientation Week was more than just a week of fun and games. For 19-year-old Niloofar Kavousi from Iran, she was excited to know more about the different cultures and nationalities she had encountered.

“I am excited to experience new cultures and study in a whole different setting. Initially I wanted to study in Melbourne Australia, but when I found out about the Sunway campus, I decided to come here instead. Maybe in my second year, I’ll go on the Monash Abroad program to the Australia campus,” said the Biotechnology student.

Getting connected to a new community plays a significant impact on the transition into the academic year for the new students.

Daniel Lourdes, who enrolled in Business and Communication, said: “I am eager to be in an international community and look forward to exchanging ideas with students and lecturers from all over the world.”

For Chittesh Shukla, a Business and Commerce student, the Orientation Week sessions provided ample information on his program and on-campus life.

“My priority was to get into a top university with a high international ranking.  So, Monash University was my first choice. All the sessions helped me familiarise myself with the system here,” the 19-year-old added.

The students also received added help from their seniors, who volunteered their time to take them on campus tours and provided useful advice on student life and study tips.