Virtual Orientation event for New Students 2021-2022
3 September, 2021Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi held two virtual orientation events for the new students, one for the undergraduate students and the other for the postgraduate students, which hosted more than 700 students. The Undergraduate Students’ Virtual Orientation event, which started on 30 August and lasted for two days, was intended to help students successfully transition from school life to university life, provide clear information on the nature of each programme, introduce them to the university services, facilities, annual activities and teach them how to get in touch with guidance counsellors.
In addition, both events comprised various activities that included virtual tour to explore 93,000 square meters state-of-the-art campus and facilities, such as sports facilities, the library and the residences.
The Undergraduate Students’ Virtual Orientation event started with a welcoming note from the Vice-Chancellor Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, Professor Silvia Serrano, in which she addressed several topics including the university’s keenness in offering the very best of international higher education and its strategy that aims at maintaining the continuity of the educational process. Prof Serrano also highlighted the university’s efforts in developing a hybrid teaching model that takes in consideration student’s different needs and conditions amidst the emergence of COVID-19. However, Prof Serrano praised and urged the return of in-person education as she believes that there is no match to on-campus classroom experience. she assured that the university has taken rigorous measures and safety precautions to prepare for the students’ return to classrooms.
While the Postgraduate Students’ Orientation event, which took place on 1 September, was intended to introduce all postgraduate students to the various services provided by the university, in addition to presenting speeches given by students from the Student Council, who shared their personal experiences and gave valuable tips to utilize the new joiner’s university experience.
Prof Serrano highlighted the significance of pursuing a master’s degree in her speech as she said “With students’ decision to pursue a postgraduate degree at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, they will be gaining access to global resources, improving their employability, career prospects, and benefiting from Sorbonne’s 760 years of academic excellence. Our postgraduate students will also develop their knowledge, skills and stand out in an increasingly competitive job market as well as benefit from the university’s extensive industry links.”
The activities of the orientation week ended successfully, welcoming a record number of new students who got familiarized with the academic programmes and the university life.