O-Week: An Essential Guide to Orientation for International Students
Are you nervous about starting the semester? Finding it hard to locate your classes? Not sure what services and support is available?
Then there's one event you don't want to miss – the Orientation Week, also affectionately known as “Welcome Week” or “O-Week”.
As an international student, starting your university journey can be overwhelming. So today I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know and show the steps you can take to have an amazing orientation experience.
What I’ll cover today:
What is Orientation Week?
Why is Orientation Week Important?
Key Events and Activities During O-Week
How to Prepare for Orientation Week
Making the Most of O-Week: Tips and Tricks
Resources and Support Services Available
Building Your Social Network
Links to Top university orientation pages
Common orientation week questions answered
Conclusion
What is Orientation Week?
It's a series of introductory events at universities and TAFEs to welcome new students. It typically occurs during the first week of the semester and is the gateway into your academic and social life in Australia.
The orientation program commonly differs in design for every institution. Still, for most universities, O-week happens around February and July and includes information sessions, faculty orientation, and social activities.
Why is Orientation Week Important?
More than just a series of events, it's an essential part of your university experience. It's the first-time students from all corners of the globe converge to start a new chapter of their lives.
It might seem like a lie, but I met most of my friends during orientation. We were all a little lost, unsure where to go or what to do, so we exchanged information and got to know each other. Over the course of the week, we took part in all kinds of activities and pretty much hung out in the international student lounge afterwards, chatting about life.
Meeting people who were in the same boat comforted me; it made me feel like I wasn't alone. I'm sure some of you feel the same, so why not go out and make a friend?
Attending the O-week sessions will also help you:
Understand academic expectations and where to find resources.
Meet your faculty and staff.
Connect with fellow students and build new friendships.
Learn about student clubs and societies.
Get practical advice on living in Australia.
Key Events and Activities During O-Week
You'll find various events tailored to help you transition smoothly into university life. Some key activities include:
Welcome Ceremonies: Official events to greet new students.
Campus Tours: Guided tours will familiarize you with the university layout.
Workshops: Sessions on academic skills, safety, and wellness.
Social Events: BBQs, parties, and club fairs to meet other students.
Information Sessions: Briefings on student services, visas, health insurance, etc.
At this point, you have a good idea of what orientation week is all about. Next, we'll start with some tips to help you prepare for O-Week.
How to Prepare for Orientation Week
As Benjamin Franklin once said, "failing to plan is planning to fail". If you've heard that already, you know preparation is essential.
I didn't have anyone to guide me during my time, but you have me, so don't worry.
I've laid out a 7-step process to help you get ready for O-Week:
First, go through your University Website
The website will have a schedule for the week. Register for events that interest you and set reminders to ensure you get everything. Almost everything you want or need to know about the sessions is on the site.
Learn how to Enrol in Courses.
Enrolling can be confusing, especially if you are new to the Australian education system. The University website will have a guide on enrolling; it's a good idea to understand this so you are prepared when the time comes. Your university might also offer sessions during orientation on how to enrol in courses.
Get your ID card set up.
Usually, universities prefer that you register for your ID card online, saving you time as you don't have to stand in line to take your picture. I'm sure you have much better photos on your phone, which also saves you from having a bad picture for the rest of your university life. Once the ID card is ready, you can collect it on campus during the week.
If your university doesn't have an online ID card service, you can present valid government-issued identity documents and collect the card on campus.
Familiarise yourself with Australian culture.
If you've not already scoured the internet when deciding to study in Australia, now is a good time to learn about this wonderful country and its amazing people. Some universities will have essential modules or pages on Australian culture and more to help you. You can also read my posts to get acquainted with them.
Campus Safety
Familiarize yourself with campus safety measures and emergency procedures. Knowing what is available and how to access campus security resources will give you peace of mind and keep you prepared. These might be infographics, webpages, or an app that the university has developed.
Plan your route
See what transport options are available from your accommodation to the university. Review your schedule, know where your events are, and study the campus map. This will help you avoid the stress of getting lost and ensure you maximize your time.
Pack items for the day
Wear comfortable shoes and carry a reusable water bottle. Don't worry if you forget your bottle; you can always use the water bubblers. Grab your ID card, as it'll come in handy if you want to use certain services or resources on campus. If you haven't got one yet, make sure you carry your identity documents so you can collect it on campus. Make a checklist of what you want to do. Here is an item packing checklist I've made for you. Feel free to use and share it with friends.
Making the Most of O-Week: Tips and Tricks
To get the most out of Orientation Week:
Be Open and Sociable: Engage with new people and make friends.
Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to seek help or clarification.
Attend Key Sessions: Take advantage of essential information sessions.
Here are five tips to make the most of orientation.
Navigate the Campus Maze
When I first stepped onto the campus, I felt a mix of excitement and curiosity. The lush green grass, the shimmer of sandstone, and the golden rays of sunlight weaving through the arches were beautiful. It's only natural that you want to discover what the campus holds, so you can use this week to find your way around and get acquainted with the layout of your new home.
Campus tours, guided by friendly students, will introduce you to the key facilities, lecture halls, libraries, and recreational spaces. Make sure you take the tour and feel free to ask the guide any questions, like secret spots for studying or the best place to grab a coffee. Familiarizing yourself with the campus will also make navigating and finding your classes easier.
Attend Orientation Events and Eat a lot of free food.
Attend the faculty welcome sessions and any other events you've registered for. They're an excellent opportunity to meet people who share similar interests or come from similar backgrounds.
From welcome barbecues and campus parties to movie nights and cultural showcases, you'll have plenty of chances to play, dance, laugh, and celebrate being part of the community. There will also be plenty of free food available. Take advantage of this and try them out. It's a great way to save money on meals during the week.
Find the International student space.
There's usually a place for international students to gather and bond over not knowing where to go and what to do. This space is where most international students come together and share stories. There are usually board games, free food, and funky seating arrangements, and you can also get information to help you settle in.
This is where I spent most of my time, and the friends I made there are the ones who've stuck around to date. Many lifelong friendships are formed during this week, so if you're feeling lost, be lost together; you're all in the same boat!
Volunteering and Mentoring
Find out about the volunteering and mentoring opportunities. It not only makes a positive impact on the community but also forges personal growth. Engaging in volunteer and mentor work helps you build your essential soft skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are valuable qualities in both personal and professional settings. It's also a chance to share your knowledge and experiences with others, inspiring your peers, thus creating a positive ripple effect that will touch lives far beyond what you had imagined.
Connecting with Clubs and Societies
The university is a treasure trove of opportunities; you'll discover many clubs and societies catering to your interests. Whether you're passionate about sports, culture, arts, social causes, Harry Potter, or Pokémon, there's a club for you.
There's usually a club fair where the clubs and societies set up stalls to promote themselves and recruit new members, so go around and find what interests you; you don't have to join them all; you can join them later or next semester.
Resources and Support Services Available
Australian universities and TAFEs offer extensive resources to support international students:
University representatives (reps): The reps are usually on campus grounds, helping new students navigate the university and event sessions. They can be easily identified as they are usually wearing your university colours, e.g., Purple for the University of Queensland, Yellow for the University of New South Wales, and Blue for the University of Melbourne.
Academic Support: You can meet with an adviser to learn about library facilities, support services, academic advice, and workshops.
Health and Wellbeing: Most universities have On-campus health clinics/centres and counselling services.
Financial Assistance: Information on scholarships and financial aid.
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Support: Learn about the resources and support available for LGBTQ+ students. Many campuses have dedicated centres that offer a safe space and advocacy for LGBTQ+ issues.
Disability, Injury or Medical Condition support: Inclusive and accessible support for people with disabilities. Some universities also have an Abilities Hub or Space to take a break and relax.
Technology: Access the university Wi-Fi, computer labs, software, web apps, printing and scanning services. Some universities might also provide students with laptops for personal needs if you are in financial need.
Building Your Social Network
You'll likely meet many students with similar interests during the events and bond over the week. I met most of my current friends during O-Week. Use O-Week to:
Meet Diverse Peers: Connect with students from different backgrounds and make new friends.
Participate in Events: Engage in activities that interest you and connect with staff and volunteers.
Join Online Groups: Look for the university or clubs and society's social media accounts to stay up to date on what's happening around you.
Links to Top university orientation pages
Here's a glimpse into the orientation week programs for the top universities in Australia:
Common orientation week questions answered
Is it Compulsory?
The Faculty/School orientation day is compulsory for most universities and TAFEs; the other sessions during the week are not mandatory.
Is it common for students to be alone at O Week?
Are you worried you won't know anyone? It's normal to feel anxious about starting university and not knowing anyone. O-Week is designed to help you meet new people and strike up conversations. Remember, most of them are in the same boat as you.
What are some good clubs to join at my university?
It depends on your interests. Look for groups related to your hobbies, passions, or study area. There are clubs for everything from sports and music to academic interests and cultural backgrounds. Here's a deeper dive into clubs and societies.
How do I find out about tutorials and sign up for them?
Check your orientation program and the university website, or ask about student services. Sometimes, you might need to sign up in person, online, or through a specific platform.
What should I do if I'm feeling overwhelmed during O Week?
It's normal to feel overwhelmed in a new atmosphere. Take some breaks occasionally, find a quiet space, relax, and listen to your favourite music. Call your family or talk to a friend. Remember to prioritize your well-being.
What are some tips for surviving O Week?
Balance social activities with rest and relaxation. Stay hydrated, eat well, and get enough sleep. Carrying a pack of electrolytes like berocca energy is a good idea, you can find them at your nearest grocery store. Manage your time, prioritize important information sessions, see how you go with the rest and don't be afraid to ask for help.
What should I wear to O Week events?
Dress comfortably and casually. Consider the weather and the type of event you're attending. Some events might have specific dress codes, but generally, there's no need to overdress.
Is it okay to drink alcohol at O Week events?
While alcohol is often present at O-Week events, it's important to drink responsibly and be aware of the legal drinking age. Always prioritize your safety and wellbeing.
Conclusion
Transitioning to university life in a new country is exciting and challenging. Orientation Week is your opportunity to lay a solid foundation for your academic and social journey. Have you attended an O-Week event? What tips would you add for new students?
Share your thoughts and what you’re looking forward to in the comments below! If you found this guide helpful, don't forget to share it with your fellow international students.