First Steps for January 2021 Intake International Students
‘First Steps’ are crucial in looking positively towards any new journey - like reading the synopsis of a book, watching the trailer of a movie, and attending the orientation of a new university. Thus, the launch of the First Steps: Sunway & Malaysia programme.
The First Steps: Sunway & Malaysia programme by Sunway Cultural Exchange (SCE) of Student LIFE introduces the brief culture of Sunway and Malaysia before international students depart from their home countries and arrive in Malaysia. With the travel ban in place and therefore no face-to-face contact with peers or staff members, beginning a new semester online in a new and unfamiliar environment could be nerve-wracking. The 5-day programme which began on 18th January saw 28 participants representing 13 nationalities as well as 10 current students from the Sunway Global Friends Community (SGFC) serving as buddies.
The programme content was a mix of information sharing, ice breakers and competitive activities and casual peer-to-peer chats and discussions - all steered towards easing students’ cultural transition and diminishing doubts and anxieties in starting education in a new and unfamiliar environment.
Notable sessions included ‘Cultural Diversity & Language’ by Professor Stephen Hall, Head of Centre for English Language Studies, ‘Transitioning’ by Ms. Cassandra Lee, Counsellor, and ‘Meet Your Schools’ by Deans, Associate Deans and representatives from School of Arts, School of Engineering and Technology, School of Hospitality and Service Management, School of Medical and Life Sciences and Sunway University Business School.
On the final day of the programme, participants shared their top highlights, thoughts, and experience throughout their five days. The general feedback from participants was that the programme was fun, informative, and helpful for international students. They also felt comfortable and welcomed with the help of the hosts and buddies. We wish the students all the best and we cannot wait till the day we can welcome them in person to their second home in Sunway and Malaysia!
Click here to watch the recap and participants’ top highlights video.
