Nazarbayev University (NU) has welcomed its newest students during Orientation Week, introducing them to the university’s academic environment, student community, and opportunities for personal and professional development.
NU President Professor Waqar Ahmad encouraged undergraduate, graduate, PhD, and Foundation Year Program students to make full use of the opportunities available during their university journey. He urged students to challenge themselves, explore new experiences, ask difficult questions, and step beyond their comfort zones.
Professor Ahmad also highlighted the importance of building strong relationships, noting that friendships and connections developed at university can become valuable professional networks and future collaborations.
Vice President for Student Affairs and International Cooperation Kadisha Dairova encouraged students to pursue a balanced university experience. She emphasised participation in extracurricular activities, student organisations, and leadership opportunities alongside academic studies.
Vice Provost for Academic Affairs Samantha Smidt highlighted NU’s research-focused environment, encouraging students to understand how knowledge is created, tested, and developed rather than simply receiving established information. She also urged students to take advantage of opportunities even when they feel challenging.
This year, 3,290 freshmen, master’s, and doctoral students joined the NU community after successfully completing a rigorous selection process involving nearly 12,000 applicants.
