Exciting Times Ahead: UNE's Welcome Week Sparks Renewed Campus Life

The University of New England (UNE) is buzzing with excitement as it ushers in a new academic year with its vibrant Welcome Week. This year, the campus is brimming with new faces and the joyful atmosphere of Lifesaver Day, set to be the best yet. Scheduled for today, February 20th, from 3 PM to 6 PM, this flagship event serves as a warm welcome to the hundreds of new students joining the UNE community.

A Celebration of Community

Located in the scenic Ingrid Moses Courtyard, Lifesaver Day promises an afternoon filled with color, conversation, and a strong sense of community spirit. Local businesses, volunteer groups, sporting clubs, and student societies are participating to showcase their contributions, presenting sign-up sheets, giveaways, demonstrations, and delightful culinary offerings.

A Thriving Campus Population

UNE's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Chris Moran, expressed his enthusiasm for seeing the campus energized once more. He noted that the college occupancy has reached 80%, marking a significant return to pre-pandemic levels. This optimistic growth reflects students' renewed interest in experiencing residential university life in Armidale.

With around 500 new students settling into their new home and accounting for 40% of total college applications, UNE's residential system is thriving. The excitement is palpable as these students, along with 300 others at St Alberts College, contribute to a new wave of energy that is invigorating Armidale's local businesses and community.

Looking Ahead: More Events on the Horizon

The festivities extend beyond the UNE campus, with more events planned in the region. UNE Tamworth will host its own orientation day at the Tamworth Study Centre this Saturday, providing online students with a vital opportunity to connect and engage with their peers. Senior Manager for Tamworth and Regions, Catherine Lees, emphasized the importance of fostering a sense of community among online learners, ensuring they feel supported and connected from day one.

This initiative aims to enhance the online learning experience beyond just virtual interactions, providing students and their families with the personalized support they need to succeed academically and professionally.

The revitalization of student life and community spirit at UNE is a positive development for both the university and the broader Armidale region, signaling a hopeful return to engaging and enriching educational experiences in a supportive environment.