More than 1,000 students packed into the Student Life Centre at St. Clair College during the first two sessions of Fall Orientation on Sept. 1, marking the unofficial start of the school year for the newest Saints.
"It's fun! It's nice to connect with everyone," said Ayah Navha, who is entering her first year in the Pharmacy Technician program.
Navha graduated from university and wanted to take a program at the College to learn a specific skill set and start a career. During orientation, she took advantage of the opportunity to meet her professors and get to know her classmates during the faculty academic session.
"It was nice meeting our professors. You feel closer to the professors here," Navha said.
Orientation is the best way to kick-start your academic journey to help take away the first day jitters, meet people in your program, get acquainted with faculty and become familiar with campus – all before the actual first day of school on Sept. 8.
It's also a perfect occasion to learn about student services such as tutoring, counselling, health and mental health supports and First Nations, Metis and Inuit Services on campus.
Student Representative Council (SRC) President Ali Hadwan and Saints Student Athletic Association (SSAA) President Robbie Durling co-hosted the group orientation sessions for students in the Schools of Health Sciences and Nursing. They helped introduce Saints to the many clubs offered throughout the year, as well as ways to get involved in student life at St. Clair.
St. Clair College President Michael Silvaggi also delivered a welcome message to incoming students.
"On behalf of our faculty, staff and students, it's my pleasure to welcome you as our newest Saints," President Silvaggi said. "Today marks the beginning of a new chapter, one defined by opportunity, discovery and growth."
"Each of you arrives here with your own experiences, goals and aspirations and together, you now become part of a community that is committed to helping you move forward with confidence and purpose," added President Silvaggi.
Students were guided around campus by members of the Saints Brigade, who serve as student ambassadors and regularly help with wayfinding around the College.
Many of those students filtered through the Orientation Marketplace, a one-stop shop where students can learn more about services and amenities on and around campus.
Dali Yaquv, who is starting in the Dental Assisting program this fall, even made a friend while waiting in line to pick up her scrubs.
"It feels good. And yes, it feels nerve-wracking. But I'm trying to make as many friends as I can, and I just got a new one," she said. "I'm literally just getting into my adult life. So, you know, it's nerve-wracking, but also exciting. I get to be my own self now."
The SRC also served a free lunch for all students who visited orientation.
This was the first of four days of Orientation at the Main Windsor Campus, Downtown Windsor Campus and Chatham Campus. To see a list of upcoming sessions throughout the week, visit the Fall Orientation website.
"At St. Clair College, we are here to support you every step of the way," said President Silvaggi.
"I look forward to seeing you on campus and watching you grow as proud members of Saints Nation."
