Orientation 2008 sure to impress

The University of Queensland will come back to life next month as students return for the commencement of the academic year after the long summer break.

Students new to UQ are encouraged to attend Orientation Week (OWeek), which this year runs from February 18-22, in order to familiarise themselves with their new surroundings, attend relevant information sessions and enjoy the social activities on offer.

Orientation Coordinator, Jenny Knowles, said the 2008 five-day event was one not to be missed.

“During OWeek the atmosphere is always relaxed and social, which really eases that daunting transition into university life,” she said.

Typically, the highlight of the Orientation festivities is the Wednesday Market Day held at UQ St Lucia, and 2008 will not disappoint.

“Market Day, February 20, will be the biggest day of the week and a great opportunity for new students to get a feel for the ‘whole’ UQ experience,” Ms Knowles said.

“It’s a chance to learn about all the academic and non-academic facilities and services on offer to you as a UQ student.”

Ms Knowles said the Great Court would be filled with stalls, some occupied by the UQ Union, some by UQ Sport and some by organisations the University deems beneficial to students, such as Translink, RACQ and Centrelink.

This year UQ Sport is offering giveaways such as complimentary passes and backpacks, and entertainment including DJ Seany B, African drumming, Japanese sword and stick art, as well as various sporting demonstrations.

The UQ Union will be giving away student diaries. Entertainment will include a DJ, street theatre performers and a Latin band, in line with its Fiesta theme.

“Over 80 clubs and societies will be vying for student membership,” Ms Knowles said.

“It’s about promoting social life on campus, be it through cultural or sporting activities.”

The UQ Gatton Market Day will be held on Thursday February 21 from 12-3pm, and students can expect to find stalls, showbags, entertainment and food.

At UQ Ipswich on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday there will be stalls, entertainment and free food, running from 11.30am-2.30pm.

While OWeek will be packed full of social events, there are also a number of scholarly activities which students should endeavor to attend.

The University's Faculties and Schools will hold information and introductory sessions for their various programs, and libraries on each campus will offer introductory courses and tours.

Session times can be found in the 2008 Orientation Guide, available at www.uq.edu.au/orientation/

Inquiries: Ms Knowles, Orientation Coordinator (3365 2600), jenny.knowles@uq.edu.au) or Penny Robinson at UQ Communications (3365 9723, penny.robinson@uq.edu.au)