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September-October 2010
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The orientation event began with a night dedicated to the parents, guardians and spouses of new UWI students–UWI Life Support, aptly named to recognise the strong support system needed to succeed at the university level. At UWI Life Support, parents flocked to the UWI Sport and Physical Education Centre (SPEC), where they were reassured that they made the right choice in sending their children to The UWI, and were encouraged to help them by becoming engaged in their lives. “Do not control, but provide support,” advised Dr. Dianne Douglas, clinical and community psychologist and feature speaker at all of the UWI Life sessions. She helped prepare parents for the journey by warning them not to coddle their children, but to “let go. Release your hold, but set good boundaries.” The following night, the new cohort of Evening University (EU) students gathered at the UWI SPEC to learn how to manage their own journeys through university life at a session tailored specifically for them–UWI Life Extension. The new EU students listened intently as they were advised on how to juggle full-time careers, family responsibilities and academic studies, and were told of the services offered by The UWI, to help them balance various elements of their lives. UWI Life Student on the Friday was dedicated solely to the campus’ biggest group of incoming students, first-year In an effort to address the specific needs of all its new students, this year UWI Life was expanded to include an event specifically for incoming postgraduate students– UWI Life Postgrad. Taking place on the last day, this session introduced new postgraduates to life as a graduate student at UWI. “This is a different ball game. This is going to be much more challenging,” warned Professor Sankat. He assured them however, that there are facilities available on campus to help them balance their work and academic lives, so not to worry, but be happy. Photography by: Aneel Karim |
UWI’s new students received a warm welcome to campus during the week-long UWI Life student orientation programme, from September 1-6, 2010. Encompassing UWI Life Support, Extension, Student and the new Postgrad segment, this year’s UWI Life had something for everyone. 
and first-time undergrads. Hosted by comedienne Nikki Crosby, this all-day event was the highlight of the week. After hearing from UWI St. Augustine Campus Principal, Professor Clement Sankat; Deputy Principal, Professor Rhoda Reddock; Student Guild President, Hillan Morean, and feature presenter, Dr. Dianne Douglas; students were treated to entertainment in the form of interactive games, led by the staff of the UWI Marketing and Communications Office and comedienne Rachel Price, and a short concert by calypsonian, Nadia Batson. Lunch was also provided and during the lunch break the new students were invited to explore the Information Village which consisted of booths set up to inform them about campus services. Students were invited to paint their own key chains at the International Office’s booth, scope out the new scooters at the Campus Security booth and get free water bottles and stationery at various others.