Easing the transition

More than 200 incoming first-year students, family and friends descended on the Studley Campus on July 19 and 20 to get a taste of Dalhousie at the second annual Summer Orientation.

“It took me years to figure out that my job as a university student was entirely different than my job as a high school student,” said Kim Brooks, dean of the Schulich School of Law, during the opening welcome. “As a university student, you’re charged with making the world interesting for yourself — no one is going to do that for you.”

Her advice about the undergraduate experience resonated with the crowd: “Great things happen in conversation,” “don’t expect everything on a platter,” "there is no 'later,'" and “go to class.” Family members and friends then broke off to the Ondaatje Theatre for a presentation on the transition process and a parent panel, while the students sat in on a series of information sessions in the Rowe Building that covered financing and budgeting, using BBLearn, student health and wellness, and setting yourself up for academic success.

Beheshta Ramcuzi, who grew up in Iran but now lives in Halifax with her parents, says she choose a local school to save money and she's thrilled with her choice. “Dalhousie, I just love the campus — it’s really beautiful,” she says.

Quinn MacIsaac and Katlyn Colbourne, both from Lower Sackville, also decided on Dalhousie for its proximity to their homes, but mainly for the reputation of the programs they’re starting in September: Science and Health Promotions, respectively. “I can’t wait to meet new people and hear what they’re all doing,” says Katlyn.

Youssef Mohamed, an incoming engineering student originally from Egypt, says the whole experience excites him, but he’s most revved up for what he’s going to be learning. “When you check the schedule, chemistry and physics will be similar to stuff I studied in high school,” he says. “But when you see mechanics and materials, that’s new the new stuff, that’s the exciting stuff.”

Drop-in advising appointments were also offered for students seeking advice about courses and programs. In the afternoon, students and families chose among sessions such as campus tours, life in residence, athletics and recreation, library and research, and study skills. On Saturday, students and families of African descent were able to attend a Welcome Home session that included a panel discussion and a tour of the Black Student Advising Centre.

“One of the big things about this event is making sure that people are aware of the physical campus before they come in September,” says First-Year Transition Program co-ordinator and event organizer, Kirsten Somers. “Recognizing that the Dalhousie community wants them to feel comfortable and hopefully meet a few people who are in their respective programs. We want to help reduce the level of nervousness that first-year students can feel, and let them and their families know that services are available throughout their time at Dal.”

Visit Dal's Academic Support website for more tips and suggestions for first-year students.