Orientation gives you a sneak peak of what your life will look like this semester. It is not only a chance for you to register for classes, but an opportunity to meet other students, staff, and faculty. Virtual orientation will be no different. Our guest, Angela is a peer leader who has attended 3 orientations! She shares about how this important week can put you on the right track to succeed at AUS.
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Host: Welcome to FYE Chats, an AUS podcast. I’m your host, Erica Payne. College is a BIG transition that can be a little overwhelming. We invite you to listen in on candid conversations with the AUS community because we want to see you THRIVE as you begin your First Year Experience.
On this week’s show, we’re going to chat with Angela Zacharias (Zak-ri-us) about what makes orientation such a special occasion. Angela is part of the peer leadership program that is a highlight of orientation. Angela, thanks for joining us today! Our listeners are probably wondering...what is a peer leader? Will you share a little bit about who the peer leaders are?
Guest: Peer leaders are current AUS students who are part of the Student leadership program. We are here to welcome incoming freshmen students every semester. You can think of us as your friends who can answer any questions you may have regarding your time at AUS. Even before orientation week starts, a peer leader will get in touch with students to ensure their file process is completed before registration day or answer any concerns they may have.
Host: Wow! That is an important role. I’m glad we have such kind and helpful students who want to welcome our new students, especially during their first few days as an AUS-er. As you know, orientation is required for students because of the important information that is shared. Can you tell us what students learn at orientation?
Guest: Orientation is a great week for students to really familiarize themselves with the AUS Community. Firstly, you will receive all the information you need to complete your file such as placement tests, health insurance information etc.. Students also get the opportunity to meet their college deans, faculty and staff. We usually also have sessions on academic success and support services at AUS.
Host: Yes! Those are all really important aspects of orientation for first-years.
But, of course, a lot of students are most excited about meeting new friends. What opportunities are there to meet other students?
Guest: Orientation week is designed to include many social activities where students can get to know each other. You can expect many fun games and events where you will be working in groups and talking to all the peer leaders and other new students. My first friend in AUS was actually my peer leader. She approached me and started a casual conversation. It's been 3 years since my freshmen orientation and we’re still pretty close!
Host: That’s amazing! Meeting other students would definitely be a highlight for me. What are some reasons that students should encourage their parents to attend orientation sessions?
Guest: I would say parents definitely play a role in creating a successful orientation for students because this is their chance to see and experience some of the fun activities we do at AUS. There are so many extra curriculars such as club fairs and global day at AUS, during orientation we try our best showcase such events to parents as well.
Host: I know that AUS is doing a lot of planning to make Fall orientation engaging for students, can you give us a teaser for what students can expect at the virtual orientation this Fall?
Guest: I am actually really excited for this year’s virtual orientation. Although things will be slightly different as compared to meeting in person, we have so many fun events to keep all the incoming freshmen students engaged! Also, since this is our first virtual orientation it's going to be special in its own way. We are working towards creating as good of an experience (or maybe better) for a virtual orientation.
Host: This will certainly be a very special and unique opportunity for the incoming class of Fall 2020.
As a peer leader, you’ve been to more than one orientation and you have met a LOT of incoming students. What do you suggest first-years should do in order to make the most of orientation week?
Guest: My advice to all the first year students out there would be to attend every session happening during orientation week. The kind of information you receive at orientation can be so helpful for your success at AUS! Also, please don't be afraid to ask questions. It can be overwhelming for some of you but we’re here to help. The peer leaders are students just like you so we would understand any concerns you may have!
Host: I love that!
To close, I’d like to ask a few questions we ask to all of our guests.
What is your favorite part of campus?
Guest: My favorite part of the campus would have to be the student centre. I have created so many fond memories there with my friends and even professors! You’d be surprised to see many of your professors casually hanging out at starbucks!
Host: We all have bad days. Do you have a most embarrassing moment in college or at AUS?
Guest: Yes! I walked into a completely wrong classroom and sat there for 10 mins before I realized I wasn't in the right room. When i tried to leave the professor asked me why i was leaving and i had to say it in front of 20 students. But it gave everyone a laugh so at the end of the day it wasn’t too bad.
Host: Oh my goodness! That is hilarious. Last question: what is one piece of advice you’d like to share with our first-years listening?
Guest: The advice i would give any first year student would be to take part in extracurricular activities! There are endless opportunities for students at AUS no matter what your interest may be. The best way to find these opportunities would be to keep checking your AUS email. So i would say take your time to find out what you like and just go for it!
Host: Thank you so much for joining us today, Angela!
It was so nice to hear from our peer leader Angela today. If you found this information helpful, we would love to hear your feedback! Thanks so much for listening to the show. Looking forward to meeting you at orientation. See you next time, on FYE Chats.