American University of Sharjah (AUS) is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that provides an environment rich in resources which helps students understand their roles in their societies, stated AUS Acting Chancellor Dr. Thomas Hochstettler at a special welcome session held for new students and their parents at the university's Main Auditorium yesterday, September 6, 2013. More than 1,400 students have enrolled at AUS for Fall 2013 marking a 15 per cent increase from last fall.
 
The welcome session marks the launch of the orientation week which aims to give new students a comprehensive understanding of the university and to familiarize them with life at AUS.

Dr. Hochstettler welcomed the new students on behalf of the university's founder and president, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qassimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. He spoke of the university's emphasis on liberal learning and encouraged students to take advantage of the university's interest in this method that encourages students to immerse themselves in subjects from different fields of study to expand their horizons. "It is an exercise in engaging in the analysis of the very structure of knowledge itself, in all its myriad forms. In short, we try to give you a broad sampling of the great varieties of human cognitive experience so that you will be prepared in later life more readily to succeed," said Dr. Hochstettler.
 
The acting chancellor also highlighted the importance of ethics as a way of learning at AUS. "During your career as a student, you will have ample opportunity to observe modeled in the lives and actions of the members of the AUS community, actions that reflect our deep respect for the dignity and integrity of every human being and our moral commitment to honesty and honorable living," said Dr. Hochstettler. He advised the students to follow the ethical path no matter how challenging academic life may be. He also spoke about the Academic Integrity Pledge which students signed at the end of the ceremony and explained that the memory of signing this pledge would give them the resolve to adhere to the ethical way of learning. 
 
Earlier, Ali Shuhaimy, Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management, praised the new students and welcomed them, their parents and guests to AUS. "As you know, the university is competitive and selective in admitting applicants. Being accepted at AUS is a feat you should be proud of. AUS is ready to exert its best efforts to help you continue achieving your goals," he said.
 
Dr. Malcolm Richards, AUS Acting Provost, also addressed the students and welcomed them to AUS. "We hope that you will view the university as your new home away from home. During your time at AUS, you will form friendships that will endure throughout your lifetime. While here, you will develop through your academic pursuits as well as through your interactions with fellow students, faculty, and staff; with these interactions taking place both inside and outside the classroom," said Dr. Richards.
 
Addressing the students' parents, the acting provost reassured them and said, "We are honored that you have selected American University of Sharjah as your students' academic home for the next several years. We take this honor and its attendant responsibilities very seriously. Your son or daughter was selected from among many well qualified applicants and he or she was deemed to possess the intellectual and personal characteristics that are the foundation for success at AUS."
 
The welcome session gave new students an insight into the cultural and social life at AUS as a campus community. It was attended by senior university officials.