2026 Freshmen Orientation at Seoul National University: A Comprehensive Welcome for New Students
Seoul National University (SNU) recently held its Freshmen Orientation for the incoming class of 2026, which occurred in early February and engaged approximately 800 new students across four sessions. The orientation aimed to familiarize freshmen with campus life, academic resources, and the wider university community.
Orientation Activities
Organized by the Office of Student Affairs, the orientation included a range of activities such as information sessions, performances, and group games designed to foster connections between newcomers and mentors. Mentorship was a significant aspect of the event, with around 80 current students selected to guide the incoming freshmen through the orientation process.
Preparation for Orientation
Preparations for the Freshmen Orientation commenced in mid-November, involving the recruitment and training of mentors. These mentors participated in several training sessions and workshops to develop engaging activities for the freshmen. In the lead-up to the event, they created group chats to encourage interaction and rapport-building among the new students.
Orientation Sessions
The orientation sessions occurred over four days—February 2, 5, 10, and 12—each featuring identical content. Each session began with presentations from campus organizations, including the Office of Student Affairs and the Academic Advising Center, which provided crucial information for navigating university life.
Group Discussions and Activities
After the presentations, mentors facilitated small group discussions and activities during lunch, allowing freshmen to engage in open conversations on various topics related to campus life and course registration. Following lunch, teams took part in a group game, which involved completing tasks throughout the Gwanak campus, further enhancing their familiarity with the environment.
Conclusion of Orientation
The orientation concluded with performances by various student organizations and a celebration for the winners of the group games. Following the official activities, many mentors and freshmen continued their interactions at a post-event dinner, fostering deeper connections within the community.
Impact and Feedback
The Freshmen Orientation serves not only to provide essential information but also to establish lasting relationships between new students and the SNU community. The event aims to equip freshmen with tools necessary for a successful transition into university life.
Feedback from participants indicated that the efforts of the mentors and SNU staff significantly enhanced the experiences of incoming students. The university anticipates supporting this new cohort as they begin their academic journeys.
(Source: Seoul National University)
