Know your university
New students at the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) attended a one-day Enrolment and Orientation Day on campus last week. They were briefed on the courses offered and provided with information they might need during their years on campus.
A separate session was held for parents. It included information on university policies, faculty, student facilities, employment prospects, etc.
Most students making the transition from school to university said they were most excited about joining a co-educational institution.
"I'm looking forward to doing well at university and may be transferring to Australia. I'm also excited about meeting new students of the opposite gender because our school was not co-educational, so this will be a change for us," said Ravi Singh, who graduated from Our Own English High School.
In his address to students and parents, UOWD's new president Professor Rob Whelan stressed the importance of taking advantage of UOWD's experience and of keeping an open mind for a successful future.
Freshman Joshua Rozoriyo, who is planning on majoring in marketing and finance, said the orientation day was long and hectic but well-organised. "I look forward to meeting new people and making new friends," he said.