Student report by Jessica M. – Orientation week @ ICMS
Arriving in Australia can be pretty overwhelming. You get to a completely new place with a different language, probably not really knowing anyone and not knowing your way around campus or Manly in general. At ICMS, however, the Student Experience Team is amazing at making your arrival as smooth as they can. Before starting into your normal study routine, there is a week full of fun activities, info sessions, chances to get to know other students and opportunities to explore the area. For me personally, this week has been one of the most fascinating experiences I have ever had at a university so far. It was amazing how many different people I was able to meet and how quickly the castle on the hill felt like home. I’d like to tell you a bit more about my adventures in this first week to make sure your start at ICMS will be as amazing as mine.
Information and support during the O-Week
To start your student life at ICMS there are plenty of questions to be answered. How do I use the different online learning programmes? What rules do I have to adhere to whilst being on campus? Who can I talk to if I feel uncomfortable and wish for wellbeing support? During O-Week there will be many different sessions on various topics to ensure every students gets answers to exactly their questions. And no worries – Australians clearly know how to make even the most boring safety measures meeting fun for everyone. With a short, lively demonstration on waste separation, free drinks for everyone and some witty comments by the most helpful Hospitality Manager of ICMS, the presentation was over in no time and everyone remembered what the needed to know.
Getting to know your fellow students at ICMS
The International College of Management in Sydney is a relatively small college compared to the public universities in most countries. This is a major reason for the very friendly and personal atmosphere on campus, in classes and also during O-Week. It is really easy to get in touch with people from all over the world. Especially the Australians themselves are very open, chatty and always interested in meeting new Internationals. Student Advisors enjoy helping you getting to know students in the same subjects and of course the group events are a great opportunity to start a conversation with a possible new best friend. One of these chances was on Campus Day, happening towards the end of the O-Week. During the colour run, the sunset barbeque or at the fair of local businesses and student associations. Just be brave, start conversations and everyone will be happy to get to know more about you.
Fun, creative and adventurous activities during O-Week
I’ve mentioned this before: O-Week is a lot about learning, but mostly about having fun. It is incredible how much effort is put into planning all the individual events happening during this week. From painting sessions with a bit of wine, where everyone can show their artistic talents, over stand-up-paddling sessions at one of the beautiful beaches close by to satisfy the sporty ones, up until the major Cocktail Party, where family and friends can come and see your new study place as well. All of these events will definitely be one of my key memories when thinking back to my time in Sydney. Within the first few days alone, you will experience so many unforgettable moments. Clearly, make sure to arrive on time not to miss any part of the O-Week at ICMS and your start into student life in Australia will be much easier, more fun and remarkable.
