International School of Education Hosts Initiation Activities for 2025 Freshmen

In mid-September, Zhejiang University welcomed its 2025 cohort of international students with a thoughtful series of orientation activities designed to assist them in adjusting to campus life, clarifying academic goals, and fostering a sense of safety. Emphasizing support for the new freshmen, the International Education College aimed to facilitate a smooth transition into both their studies and personal lives.

The orientation began with the 'Introduction to Education for New Students' at the Zijingang Theatre, where incoming students and faculty gathered to set the stage for a productive academic year. Associate Dean Chen Nanfei delivered an insightful overview of life at Zhejiang University, showcasing the university's impressive history, commitment to talent development, and practical advice on navigating campus resources.

A crucial component of the orientation was a presentation by Officer Zhang Lingke from the Hangzhou Public Security Bureau's Exit-Entry Administration. Through engaging visuals and intuitive app demonstrations, Officer Zhang educated students about legal norms concerning residence permits, accommodation registration, and internship endorsement procedures, stressing the role of technology in streamlining these processes in 'Digital Hangzhou'.

Xu Jia, deputy director of the Teaching Affairs Office, provided guidance on the training program and course selection, addressing commonly asked questions and offering insights to ease new students into their academic journeys. Attentive students noted key points that would serve as an essential guide in starting their educational experiences at Zhejiang.

Furthering the orientation's mission, Director Gu Dongjian from the Campus Security Office and Teacher Liu Mengqi from the library offered special lectures on campus safety and resource utilization. Drawing on case studies, Director Gu emphasized the importance of electrical safety in dormitories, transportation etiquette on campus, and emergency contacts, while Teacher Liu showcased how to navigate library services and discover available resources.

To strengthen connections between new students and their counselors, a dedicated meeting brought together students and faculty on September 18. During this session, counselors tailored discussions to the students' needs, covering vital topics such as dormitory management, academic integrity, and time management strategies, thus reinforcing the supportive community within the university.

In addition to faculty-led sessions, orientation included a peer experience sharing segment, where accomplished upperclassmen imparted valuable insights on campus life. They offered practical advice on frequently used apps, travel tips, course selection strategies, and even a demonstration of the course selection system, empowering newcomers to navigate their academic paths effectively.

To enhance familiarity with the campus environment, the college organized a campus exploration event on September 13. Guided by volunteers, over a hundred new students toured key facilities, including lecture halls, libraries, and gymnasiums, while volunteers provided informative commentary, creating a strong sense of community and support among the students.

The series of orientation activities was marked by a comprehensive and engaging approach, addressing everything from living arrangements to academic preparations, and allowing students to foster emotional connections. This thorough foundation has set up the 2025 international students to confidently embark on their university journeys, empowering them to explore and create their unique stories at Zhejiang University.