New Student Orientation: AUK Welcomes over 170 New Students

The New Student Orientation for the spring semester 2024 at the American University of Kurdistan (AUK) was held on January 10 and 11. The program featured a diverse range of presentations, interactive exercises, and warm welcomes, establishing the foundation for the students’ first year experience.
Director of Student, Affairs Yelena Sardaryan, welcomed the sixty-six bachelor’s-ready freshmen and the 111 students beginning their English language courses at AUK’s Center for Academic and Professional Advancement (CAPA). AUK President, Dr. Randall Rhodes, emphasized the importance of academic focus and campus engagement, key components of student success. He underscored the significance of students achieving ownership over their learning and professional growth, and contribute to the development of the University. Additional topics included the institution’s commitment to American best practices that allow for collaborations with American universities and the benefits of U.S. accreditation.

The program also included introductions to the Peer Mentor Program, Student Clubs, and Student Government. Speeches were delivered by Ms. Gulan Ahmed, the Director of the Library; Mr. Jarjis Jarjis, a Manager at CAPA; and Mr. Amir Suleivani, who addressed financial aid. A campus tour, sessions with peer mentors, and a movie were scheduled.
On the second day, Dr. Khedir Ramazan, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Dr. Jervy Bernardino, Chief Nursing Administrator in the College of Nursing; Dr. Rezaq Ferhadi, Dean of the College of Engineering; and Dr. Uzair Bhatti, Dean of the College of Business, shared their expertise on the academic programs and their respective study plans. Mr. Ibrahim Hussein, Director of Admissions and Registration, and Mr. Perwar Al-Missouri, Director of Career Services, delivered presentations that highlighted the various resources available for the students’ success. Yelena Sardaryan introduced the services for Psychological Counseling and Access and Disability.
For these students, the New Student Orientation meant the start of a new academic chapter. Aiming to ensure students have strong support networks and seamlessly transition from high school to university, AUK continues to develop innovative programming customized to student needs.