A scene during one of the sessions.
PHILIPSBURG--The University of St. Martin (USM) welcomed its new Caribbean Foundation Year (CFY) students on Thursday, October 1, with the first day of a two-day orientation programme designed to prepare students for the start of classes.
The first day brought students together with faculty, staff, alumni and support personnel through activities focused on familiarising them with the university, academic expectations and student life.
The programme began with registration and an icebreaker, followed by an official welcome from Robert Judd. Juliana Shipley-Hodge provided an overview of the CFY programme and academic year, while CFY faculty members introduced themselves and provided information about their courses.
Alumni share their college experiences
The orientation also included a session on the transition from secondary school to university, featuring USM alumni Ty Farquharson and Sherenn Leblanc.
The alumni shared practical advice and lessons from their own educational experiences, including the importance of staying focused, taking responsibility for one’s education, managing academic expectations and making use of available support and opportunities.
Farquharson and Leblanc are expected to return later in the semester for mentoring sessions with the CFY cohort.
Students introduced to campus resources
During the afternoon, students were introduced to student IDs, benefits, campus activities and support services. A campus tour led by Raeann Ford included the classrooms, library, computer facilities, Admissions and Registrar, Marketing and Business offices.
Stacey Thomas introduced students to USM Library services and resources, including
ProQuest and e-books.
Interactive activities led by Shobhan Giterson encouraged students to consider their goals and what they hope to accomplish during the CFY programme. Students also received information about class schedules, attendance, communication and classroom expectations.
Dr. Carole Joseph led a counselling-focused session, introducing students to another support service available at USM.
The day also included lunch and informal activities, allowing students to begin building relationships before starting classes.
Online systems
The second day of orientation takes place today, Friday, October 2, focusing on USM’s online academic systems.
Registrar Glenda Brazier will guide students through Moodle, the university’s online learning platform, including access to courses, assignments, grades and other academic information. Students will use their laptops during the session to practise navigating the system.
The two-day orientation is intended to familiarise students with the people, resources, systems and support available at USM before classes begin Monday, October 5.
USM thanked its faculty, staff, alumni and support team for contributing to the orientation programme.
