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Rolling out the red carpet for new college students

Okanagan College says welcome back to school
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Goodie bags in hand, students relax on the Penticton campus commons at last year’s Okanagan College orientation day. Submitted photo

Okanagan College wants students to walk away from orientation day at the Penticton campus feeling welcomed and set for success.

“Students are making one of the biggest transitions of their lives when they begin post-secondary studies and social connections support students with navigating that shift,” said Eric Corneau, regional dean South Okanagan Similkameen. “It is excellent that the community has come together with welcoming students this year, to help newcomers feel at home in their new city. Everyone at the college is very excited about the day and the start of the new academic year.”

Orientation day, on Sept. 4, starts off with free coffee during a Mix ‘N Mingle starting at 10 a.m, when students can also pick up a welcome bag of goodies. Therapy dogs from St. John Ambulance will also be on hand for students seeking furry relief from the bustle.

Following a short ceremony on the commons, students can meet instructors and their peers during department sessions at 11 a.m.

At noon, the Kickoff Carnival begins with a free barbecue, campus tours and a photo booth to capture that first day. Students looking to break the ice with new friends are invited to play Giant Jenga, Zorb Pool races, riding bull, dunk tank, corn hole, arcade bowling and ring toss.

This is also the first year that community organizations are part of orientation day activities. Taste the Okanagan, from regional beverage providers, offers students the chance to sample local craft beers, craft ciders, wines, kombucha, soda and coffee. Over 10 vendors will be on hand at the Sunoka Building on the north end of campus for the tasting event.

Students can win donated swag from local merchants specializing in books, movies, art, climbing, restaurants and dining, health, chocolate, sweets and treats, shopping, outdoor activities and more.

EDS: Attached is an image from 2017 orientation day activities at Okanagan College’s Penticton campus.


Steve Kidd
Senior reporter, Penticton Western News
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