Orientation kicks off with lots of fun

As Big Nuz and DJ Tira's hit song umlilo blared in the Beattie Building lecture theatre, students sang along and danced as if they were at a bash. But as the music died down the room went quiet and everyone listened attentively as the formal orientation programme of the Faculty of Commerce went into full swing.

"We try to mix academic with social stuff to keep our programme entertaining," explained Alison Meadows, the faculty's orientation co-ordinator.

Her faculty was the second to run a programme after the Faculty of Humanities kick-started orientation on 18 January.

The university orientation programme, which will be extended throughout the campus, will continue until the end of the month to welcome new students and familiarise them with the university through tours, talks and workshops.

"We want to make students feel they have made the right decision to choose UCT. They must feel happy, wanted and be passionate about their journey," notes Meadows.

Orientation also tries to answer any questions students may still have about their choice of studies, to build relationships and explain the dos and don'ts of studying.

"We try to make things as easy as possible for students to make sure that they are prepared and are fully-functioning independent students when the term starts," added Meadows.

Student Loyiso Daka, an orientation leader for the second consecutive year, said he found the experience of showing students around both challenging and stimulating.

It was also stimulating to the new students, and fresher Yaasier Galant described orientation as vibrant and informative.

"I feel as I was once lost and now I'm found," he said.