UQ welcomes 11,000 new students

The University of Queensland welcomes almost 11,000 new students this week, with a range of Orientation Week activities at the St Lucia and Gatton campuses.

UQ Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Peter Høj encouraged students to take full advantage of Orientation Week.

“Orientation Week provides fabulous opportunities for all our new students to learn about UQ’s campuses, clubs and societies and about the sporting and cultural activities on offer,” he said.

“Students should make the most of the week and the social and academic activities that will help them become a part of the UQ community.

“Faculty and teaching staff can support students academically, and Student Services is on hand to help with settling in, finding accommodation and providing welfare services.”

Professor Høj said UQ’s new arrivals included 2897 international students from 89 countries.

UQ Advantage Office Director Dr Dino Willox said students should challenge themselves to be involved in as many ways as possible during their time at UQ, to develop the skills and attributes that would be key to lifelong employability.

“You could think of joining UQ as gaining membership to one of the world’s best clubs,” Dr Willox said.

“We have all the equipment, advice, trainers and support, and are ranked among the top 50 universities in the world.

“You’ll only get out of it what you put in. You need to challenge yourself.

“That’s what university life is all about: pushing yourself to try something new and different – even if it seems daunting – and learning more about yourself in the process.”

Dr Willox said the University of Queensland Union (UQU) and UQ Sport offered a huge range of clubs and societies.

“Research shows that success at university and a sense of belonging go hand-in-hand,” Dr Willox said.

“With such a diverse community and a range of activities on offer, UQ gives you the opportunity to find your niche.

“And students can benefit from student leadership programs and overseas study exchanges ranging from short international trips to volunteering in Australia and abroad.”

Welcome Students 2016 from The University of Queensland on Vimeo.

University of Queensland Union activities during O-Week include a neon party to welcome first-year students on Friday, give-aways at the UQU Complex, and markets at St Lucia’s Campbell Place on Friday. Market Day at the Gatton Campus is Tuesday, 23 February. 

Media: Communications@uq.edu.au, +61 (7) 3365 1120.