More than 500 new students attended the Freshman Reception Dinner held on August 21 at the Main Building. The welcome dinner, hosted by the university's Office of Student Affairs (OSA), is part of OSA's weeklong Fall 2016 orientation activities to assist new students in their transition to university as well as to introduce them to the university's many extracurricular opportunities.

The special event was attended by Dr. Björn Kjerfve, Chancellor; Dr. Moza Al Shehhi, Dean of Students; and officials from the OSA.

Addressing the students, Dr. Kjerfve said, "It is very exciting for me to see new faces here at AUS. I hope the next four years will be a great learning experience for you. When you select an area of study, be passionate about it and you will truly succeed in life. I look forward to seeing you around campus. It is a great pleasure for me to see you here and I wish you all the best of success."

"At AUS we offer you a wide array of extracurricular programs and services to complement your academic learning," said Dr. Al Shehhi. "I encourage you to take advantage of these offerings for your personal and professional growth. I advise you all to be good students, help yourselves, help others and learn from each other. I wish you all the success in your academic life at AUS."

The program included a dinner, games, a raffle and cultural performances by the Syrian, Jordanian and Palestinian Cultural Clubs.

The orientation week commenced last Friday during the university's Welcome Session for Parents and New Students. Orientation packets containing informative materials on the university's services were distributed. Student Peer Leaders 'adopted' new students to mentor and guide in adjusting to university life.

The orientation activities will continue throughout the week and include tours to Sharjah and Dubai, athletics orientation, awareness on Student Code of Conduct Policies and Procedures, welcoming parents and students in the dorms and fun activities in the Student Center multipurpose room such as movies, table tennis, baby foot and video games.