As the new academic year approaches, universities are ramping up their preparations to welcome new students and facilitate their transition from high school to university life. This transition comes with numerous challenges, including choosing a major, navigating admission procedures, understanding university systems, and adapting to a new social and academic environment.
Universities have confirmed that their orientation programmes have evolved into comprehensive systems that begin before students arrive on campus and continue throughout their first few weeks. These programmes encompass academic guidance, orientation tours, introductions to available services, psychological and social support, as well as activities designed to foster a sense of belonging and integration into the university community.
Academic Guidance
Professor Amer Qasem, President of Al Ain University, emphasised the importance of academic guidance in helping students understand their options and make informed decisions about their university journey. He highlighted the organisation of “Open Week” events aimed at introducing various majors and academic programmes, assisting students in selecting fields that align with their interests, abilities, and aspirations.
This initiative allows students and their parents to explore available options and learn about university regulations and services, fostering communication with academic staff to address any queries. The aim is to ensure that students embark on their academic journey with awareness and confidence.
Supporting Freshmen
Dr Amina Al Marzooqi, Vice President for Student Affairs at Sharjah University, noted that the institution places special emphasis on new students through a preparatory programme that runs throughout the early weeks of the academic year. This programme involves guidance sessions to familiarise students with university systems and academic regulations, tours of facilities and services, and meetings with academic advisors to review their study plans and understand the requirements of their majors.
Additionally, students are introduced to various academic, cultural, and recreational clubs, which play a vital role in enriching their university experience, helping them refine their skills and build their character.
Choosing a Major
Saif Al Tamimi, Director of Admissions and Registration at Mohammed bin Zayed University for Humanities, stated that choosing an academic and career path is a pivotal decision for students. Hence, the university’s role is crucial in informing them about available programmes, their outcomes, and the associated job opportunities.
The university organises meetings and participates in exhibitions, along with offering introductory workshops in schools, to assist students in making suitable decisions. Preparation continues through a “Preliminary Week,” which includes campus tours, explanations of regulations and student guides, and information on available scholarships and incentives for outstanding students.
Academic Support
Professor Tania Kiryazi, Deputy Director of Middlesex University Dubai for Education and Learning, affirmed that the university has developed a comprehensive programme that begins prior to the start of classes, featuring sessions to introduce academic programmes, faculty members, and course offerings, alongside workshops aimed at preparing students for university life.
She explained that the Academic Success Centre provides support in time management, writing, research, and independent learning, in addition to offering private and confidential advising sessions. The “Welcome Week” programme also facilitates introductions among peers and faculty members while showcasing available support services.
Practical Steps
Gary Fernlandez, Student Recruitment Officer at Heriot-Watt University Dubai, shared that preparations for welcoming students commence even before their arrival on campus, featuring guidance on registration, course selection, timetable navigation, and readiness for the orientation programme.
The “Welcome Week” enables students to meet faculty and support staff while participating in open sessions concerning wellness and peer guidance, alongside activities in clubs and sports teams to help them acclimatise and form social connections.
Mental Health Support
Dr Shaqeel Agnew, Associate Professor of Psychology at Heriot-Watt University Dubai, pointed out that the transition from high school to university often marks the first genuine experience of independence for young people. She noted that, alongside academic achievement, university life contributes to developing collaboration skills, resilience, and self-confidence.
Dr Agnew highlighted that the available support and guidance services aid students in adapting to campus life and forming new relationships. She advised parents to grant their children greater autonomy in managing their time and friendships, stating that experiencing some discomfort during the initial phase of university is natural and can be part of a journey towards maturity and learning.