The weather may be cold, but the welcome is warm for new students at Durham College (DC).

This winter semester, over 2,000 students are embarking on their DC journeys. To help them start strong, we hosted Academic Welcome Day at both our campuses on Friday, January 3. In Oshawa, students were greeted by Dr. Jean Choi, Vice President, Academic and Students, while in Whitby they were welcomed by Tara Koski, Dean, Students. They also met the Deans of their respective Faculties and heard from representatives of the Durham College Student Association.

The welcome sessions were followed by individual program orientations, as well as a social event in the Marketplace Cafeteria in Oshawa and in the Games Room/Shop in Whitby.

It was an invaluable opportunity for new and returning students alike.

“Academic Welcome Day helps students develop a sense of belonging and community, and sets them up for a successful start to their program,” said Lucy Romao Vandepol, Director, Student and Career Development. “This event provides incoming first-year students with an opportunity to connect with their faculty and peers, while also learning about essential program-specific details to help them start the year off on the right foot.”

Early Childhood Education student Nickey is excited to be back at DC after previously enrolling in two other programs.

“When I was at DC in the past I liked being in class and meeting new friends, so I’m excited to do that again,” she said. “I also didn’t do any of the orientation activities before, so I wasn’t aware of all the services on campus and what each building had. It’s really cool to know what’s in the building, like a doctor’s office!”

International students also took advantage of the event. Maasim, who has a master’s degree from the University of Windsor, is enrolled in Data Analytics and looks forward to preparing for his career with the courses and co-op in his program.

“Overall, I feel very welcomed here,” he said.

With classes now underway, there are a number of fun activities for students to enjoy this week and throughout the month of January. A full schedule of events is available online.