The Ateneo Internationalization for Mindanao (AIM) Office hosted the International Student Orientation and General Assembly on 06 September 2024 at Conference Room D, 3/F Ricci Hall, Community Center of First Companions, Ateneo de Davao University.
The Orientation Program was designed to welcome new international students and facilitate their integration into the University community, while the General Assembly was a social event aimed at fostering connections among international students and building a supportive network. This gathering allowed students to meet their peers, share their experiences, and engage in meaningful interactions for a collaborative and supportive academic year.
The event began with registration, managed by the AIM Office, which set a welcoming tone for the new students. Ms. Lyd Ejira C. Ducusin, AIM Assistant Director, warmly welcomed the attendees. Her remarks highlighted the importance of the orientation program and the supportive environment that the AIM Office strives to provide for international students. She also briefly introduced the AIM Office and its programs.
After the welcome remarks, the first-year students participated in an icebreaker session titled “Cultural Show-and-Tell,” which allowed them to share elements of their respective cultures. This activity fostered an atmosphere of inclusion among the students.
Following a short break, Ms. Ma. Lourdes M. Danila, Immigration Officer II and Officer-in-Charge of the Student Visa Section at the Bureau of Immigration Davao District Office, delivered an informative session on immigration policies, which was essential for helping students navigate their visa requirements and legal obligations in the Philippines.
Mr. Sung Goon Acosta, SAMAHAN Vice President, introduced the student government and initiatives. He highlighted the organization’s role in supporting students and enhancing their university experience. An open forum followed, and certificates were awarded to the speakers.
In the afternoon session, the General Assembly commenced. Mr. Romulo Vinci R. Bueza, AIM Director, delivered a message to the students, emphasizing the value of their international perspectives and the contributions they would make to the university community. After his talk, the “Trivia Game” Ice Breaker engaged students in a fun and competitive way, encouraging them to learn more about each other and the university in a relaxed setting. This was followed by Ms. Thanaporn Insawang, a 3rd-year Master of Arts in Guidance Counseling student, who shared practical advice and personal experiences about adapting to life in Davao City. Her session was particularly useful for students adjusting to a new cultural environment.
Another icebreaker, the “Campus Spot & Snap Challenge,” involved students exploring the campus and taking creative photos. This was followed by an election, an important democratic process where students voted for their International Student Representatives. This part of the program is important for representing the interests and concerns of international students.
AIM Assistant Director Ducusin delivered the closing message, reflecting on the day’s activities and encouraging students to make the most of their time at the university. The program concluded with the awarding of tokens of appreciation and a final group photo.
The AIM Office is exhilarated to welcome the international students for the new academic year and looks forward to the exciting programs ahead. This successful event fosters global citizenship and provides an exceptional educational experience that supports every international student.
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