Local campus hosts week-long event for student empowerment

“Just remember to relax because you’ve got this, and if you feel like you don’t have this anymore then reach out to us.”

Pardeep Sharma and new nursing student Shivani Kakkar. USQ O week. Monday, July 5, 2021. Picture: Nev Madsen.

With university campuses set to welcome students back in the coming weeks, the University of Southern Queensland is easing them in with Orientation Week.

Students will spend the next four days taking campus tours, watching live webinars, participating in workshops and meeting lecturers and academic staff.

( From left ) Oliver Evans, Kobe Hippi and Kynan Lamb. Wingali Infusion dance group. USQ O week. Monday, July 5, 2021. Picture: Nev Madsen.

USQ’s pro vice-chancellor Professor Josh Pienaar said the week-long event focused on empowering and preparing students for success during their tertiary studies.

“O-Week is fundamental to student success, and it’s one of the most important events we have at the university,” Professor Pienaar said.

“Starting out as a student can be very stressful, so this is really designed to assist them and ensure they have the confidence to ask for help if they need it.”

Pardeep Sharma and new nursing student Shivani Kakkar. USQ O week. Picture: Nev Madsen.

The vice-chancellor said his advice for new students was to participate in O-Week activities as much as possible, use the week to make new friends and build the confidence to seek help when required.

“It’s very important to ask the questions,” Professor Pienaar said.

“Just remember to relax because you’ve got this, and if you feel like you don’t have this anymore then reach out to us – we’re here to help.”

Orientation Week will conclude on July 9.

Classes will resume at the Toowooomba campus next week.