Orientation Week: The First Steps for New Students in Australia

Contributor: Muhammad Hadiyan Ridho - University of Melbourne

February 2025 marks the start of the "Summer Term" for students who will continue their studies in Australia. International students usually arrive 1-2 weeks before lectures start to adapt to the new environment and attend Orientation Week at their campuses.

Differences between Orientation Week in Australia and Indonesia

Unlike in Indonesia, where student orientation activities are usually mandatory, Orientation Week in Australia is optional. Students are free to choose whether or not to participate. In addition, this activity is not limited to new undergraduate students but also includes postgraduate and doctoral students.

Activities in Orientation Week

Orientation Week in Australia offers a variety of engaging activities that help students get to know the campus and its community. One of the main activities is the campus organization expo, where students can get to know the various clubs and organizations they can join during their studies. In addition, many booths distribute freebies such as free food, merchandise, and study supplies. The sale of official campus merchandise is also a unique attraction for students who want equipment with their university logo. Campus tours are also essential to Orientation Week, introducing important locations such as the library, classrooms, and student service centres. Academic sessions and workshops are usually held to help students with academic preparation, and they equip them with skills such as essay writing techniques and effective study strategies. Not only that, Orientation Week is also filled with various social and entertainment activities such as mini concerts, picnics, and casual gatherings that allow students to build relationships with other students.

Benefits of Orientation Week for New Students

Participating in Orientation Week provides many benefits for new students. One of them is the opportunity to build a network of friends with students from various backgrounds and make new connections. In addition, students can more easily adjust to the campus environment and understand the location and facilities available, so they are better prepared for lectures. The academic sessions also help students understand the academic standards applied at their university, such as how to write essays and manage college assignments. In addition to the educational aspect, Orientation Week provides insight into life in Australia, from the transportation system to social etiquette, which significantly helps students adapt to the local culture. By participating in Orientation Week, new students can start their academic journey more confidently and comfortably. This moment helps in academics and provides valuable social experience to build a fun college life.