Making the transition from high school to university can be challenging for many students. Fortunately for new students at American University Sharjah, a team of knowledgeable student Peer Leaders is available to help them adjust more quickly.

A part of the Office of Student Affairs' Student Leadership Program, the Peer Leaders took an active role during the Welcome Session for New Students and Parents held on Friday, January 22, 2016. Peer Leaders "adopted" new freshmen and will continue to orient them throughout the semester. Peer Leaders play an integral role in helping new students adjust to university life. The students who participated in the Peer Leaders Program have leadership skills and a passion for assisting others.

"My experience was incredible; interacting with such motivated and passionate newcomers was extremely exciting and inspiring. I was motivated by the memory of how lost I was as a freshman and how helpful I found the Peer Leaders then. It benefited me to interact with people from various cultural backgrounds. I loved the experience overall and would definitely do it again," said Hanan Arab, a junior student majoring in international studies.

"The Peer Leaders Program is quite fun and informative. I have made a lot of new friends and I have had the pleasure of passing down any knowledge I have about AUS and made use of my experience here by helping the new students," said Rima Chalha, a sophomore student majoring in interior design.

"We are pleased to see Peer Leaders and new students build a strong relationship at an early stage, as this helps freshmen better understand the AUS community. The Peer Leaders have done an excellent job in providing our new students with support, advice and encouragement," said Dr. Moza Al Shehhi, Dean of Students.

Student interested in learning more about the Peer Leaders Program should the visit Student Leadership Program office in the Student Center, First Floor, Room A249.