Although the COVID-19 pandemic is still in the picture, new international students of Ohio University were warmly welcomed through a virtual International Student Orientation (ISO) held from January 11-13, 2021, paving the way for 83 international students to begin their studies at the university this spring. Notably, the majority of the students deferred their Fall 2020 enrollment to Spring 2021.
The fun orientation went beyond the university’s expectations. During the regular ISO in the past, International Student and Faculty Services (ISFS) staff did not have a connection with the incoming students. This year’s virtual platform, however, a lot of names were sent in advance. The students enjoyed the cooking show, dance party, and trivia night, which lasted more than the scheduled time.
As all of these were done virtually, getting to know each other was safe this year. The university also invited current students and staff to join the event. Debalina Chakraborty, a Ph.D. candidate in Physics, said, “Being an international student and coming abroad in this volatile (COVID-19) situation was challenging. But through the orientation week, I started to feel connected to the Ohio community, who are from all over the world.”
International students would typically undergo orientation sessions and pre-departure briefings before they start their classes. These activities ensure that students can easily transition into their new environment. With the COVID-19 pandemic complicating the process, virtual orientations have proven to be a great alternative to preparing students as they are expected to begin their in-person classes in the US soon.
Ohio University will follow strict health precautions when international students around the world commence their studies this year.
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