James Cook University Nguma-bada campus in Cairns welcomes new student for ‘O Week’

Hundreds of eager young minds are coming together this week at James Cook University, as fresh-faced students kick off Orientation Week. See the pictures

Natali Cleary has begun studying a Bachelor of Law, Politics and International Relations at the JCU Smithfield Campus as a mature age student. Picture: Brendan Radke

A mother-of-three who was inspired to study law after her husband’s legal fight over his silicosis diagnosis is among hundreds of eager minds kicking off Orientation Week at James Cook University.

Both domestic and international students are set to flock to the JCU’s Nguma-bada Campus at Smithfield in Cairns, with the promise of an “exciting atmosphere” for the week ahead.

Edmonton resident Natali Cleary is looking forward to ‘getting back into the groove of things’ as a mature age student at JCU as ‘O Week’ kicks off. Picture: Brendan Radke

Bonnie Hutchinson and Jenavie Sabino celenrating O Week. Picture: Brendan Radke

Student Natali Cleary, 34, who was eager to start a Bachelor of Law degree, majoring in Politics and International Relations, said “O Week” was an important part of integrating into university life and can help ease anxiety about starting classes and making friends.

Students Stepheny Wolstencroft and Elle Thao at the JCU O Week for mid-year enrollments, at the Smithfield campus. Picture: Brendan Radke

JCU students Anjana Josy Muttunkan, Laure Forrester and Liza Maria Jo hanging out on campus. Picture: Brendan Radke

“I wanted somewhere I could attend in person so if I had questions or needed help then it was face-to-face”.

“These are big subjects I’m studying, I’m also working and I’ve got children so I wanted to ease that pressure,” she said.

Ryan Jamieson and Emilie Anderson at the JCU O Week participating in some activities on campus. Picture: Brendan Radke

Dentistry students Kami Schowalter and Miriam Sidrak at the JCU O Week for mid-year enrollments. Picture: Brendan Radke

The mother-of-three chose a Bachelor of Law when her family experienced a challenging legal battle after her husband was diagnosed with a lung disease, silicosis, six years ago.

“There were things we went through, legally, that I feel could have been done better, could have been eased, but If I want things to change I need to be a part of that change,” she said.

Holly Almeroth with Gayle Juntilla at the JCU O Week for mid-year enrollments. Picture: Brendan Radke

Ms Cleary encouraged any student hesitant to come along to “O Week”, to reach out to the university as others will most likely be feeling the same way.

“It takes away a bit of that anxiety about starting something new and hearing other people’s struggles, it’s not always going to be easy and that’s okay, it’s a big thing,” she said.

James Cook University has welcomed mid-year enrollments with an orientation week being held at the Smithfield campus for new students. Edmonton resident Natali Cleary meeting with JCU's chief marketing officer David Craig during O Week. Picture: Brendan Radke

Students Sophie Isbister and Olivia Feng holding three-year-old salty Louie. Picture: Brendan Radke

There will be opportunities all week for students to connect with tutors, fellow students and experience a variety of activities throughout the week before classes begin on July 22.

Jacob Falvo and Kaelon Mulla head to Smithfield campus for mid-year enrollments. Picture: Brendan Radke

Chief marketing officer at James Cook University, David Craig said “O Week” was all about the students getting familiar with the campus and immersing themselves in the social, sporting and cultural opportunities.

Wednesday is expected to be the “busiest day” of orientation week, with booths set up around campus showcasing what JCU has to offer.

“It’s our busiest day, there’s also a networking event in the evening and it’s a chance for students to make some new friends,” Mr Craig said.

Originally published as James Cook University Nguma-bada campus in Cairns welcomes new student for ‘O Week’