Sunway University Orientation January 2024

At Sunway University, seeing new students always brings a smile to our faces. This year was no different, as the University held its orientation programme for the January 2024 intake. The Jeffrey Cheah Hall buzzed with excitement as it welcomed the latest batch of Sunwayians. 

The orientation session was memorable, featuring an ice-breaking session, useful tips for our new Sunwayians, and even a quiz with prizes. However, this event was made more unique than your average orientation due to a live demonstration by Sunway University’s Jiu-Jitsu club. Featuring hip throws, takedowns, and self-defence techniques, they really got the crowd’s adrenaline flowing. President of Sunway University, Professor Sibrandes Poppema, then gave the new students a warm welcome with a short speech. The students were then led into breakout rooms to continue the orientation programme. The next day, the orientation continued, with the students now broken up according to the Schools they belonged to.

It was great to hear the new student’s enthusiasm and optimism. 16-year-old Ethan signed up for the ADTP program, influenced by his parents, who are Sunway University ADTP alumni! “I want to feel the independence of spending some time abroad”, Ethan said when asked about his choice of study. He also praised the convenience of the University’s location, a sentiment which another student, Breyanne, shared. “I love the convenience of the campus and how it is located so close to amenities like stores”, she said. It was also great to hear how passionate some students are about their career choices. Diven, who is getting started in the Diploma in Culinary programme, shared that he chose the culinary field as he wanted to pursue something he loves. “Cooking is my hobby, and I want to enjoy what I do as a career”.

But the new students were not the only ones who enjoyed the programme. Student volunteers were equally excited to be part of the event. Sidrah and Assim were excited to get the chance to mingle with new students. Assim, who is the director of International Student Relations (ISR), as well as the vice-president of Sunway International Student Affairs (SISA), enjoyed “hearing different stories, the smiles and the thanks you get from people”. Sidrah, who is part of the Sunway University Student Council (SUSC), saw it as an excellent opportunity to bond with council members. Both volunteers enthusiastically said that they would volunteer again, given the chance.

In conclusion, Sunway University's January 2024 orientation was a dynamic and engaging introduction to campus life. From Jiu-Jitsu demonstrations to insightful tips, the event showcased the diverse motivations of new students, highlighting the university's appeal. The enthusiastic participation of students and volunteers emphasised the sense of community at Sunway, setting a positive tone for the academic journey ahead.