Texas A&M University at Qatar (Tamuq) welcomed about 140 new students for orientation during the three-day Aggie Life 101 orientation.
Students and graduates of Texas A&M University are called ‘Aggies’ and that tradition continues at Texas A&M’s branch campus in Doha.
Aggie Life 101 is a series of seminars, workshops and activities designed to teach students about Texas A&M and its unique traditions, as well as what it takes to succeed at a world-renowned engineering institution, according to a press statement by Tamuq.
The orientation also showcased the opportunities Texas A&M at Qatar offers to students to help them become engineering leaders — from social clubs and activities to transformative educational experiences, such as international service-learning trips, study abroad and undergraduate research.
During this time, students registered for classes, attended academic advising sessions, toured the Texas A&M Engineering Building, met with faculty and engaged with student leaders.
Dr Hazem Nounou, assistant dean for academic and student services, welcomed the new students, including the freshmen of the Class of 2023.
“I congratulate all of our new students for joining Texas A&M University at Qatar, one of the most prestigious engineering universities in the world,” Nounou said.
“I wish our new students nothing but success as they strive to become part of the rising generation of engineering leaders who will drive Qatar to achieve its goals.”
During the week, students were split into groups led by current students who serve as ambassadors of Tamuq and answer questions the new students might have about college life.
The groups also allowed new students the opportunity to get to know one another as they begin this new experience together.
The orientation leaders introduced the Aggie Core Values and the Aggie Code of Honour, two driving principles that set apart an Aggie education.
At the end of these sessions, orientation leaders quizzed the new students on their knowledge of Texas A&M’s traditions, including the university’s official greeting (Howdy!), its mascot (an American collie named Reveille) or its colours (maroon and white).
Speaking to the new students, Student Government Association president Abdul Sattar Alkahala said: “The mentality and skills you are set to gain during your experience at Texas A&M University at Qatar are unparalleled and can’t be found anywhere else. You will become leaders in your respective fields and that’s an experience you should be excited to pursue.”
Aggie Life 101 also gave current students a chance to develop their skills in leadership and service, two of Texas A&M’s core values.
Orientation leader Omar Aly, Class of 2022, said: “It was a great honour to welcome new members to our Aggie family and hope they feel at home. The amazing experience taught me how to be a leader not just in orientation, but in life as a whole.”
Another orientation leader, Rand Alagha, Class of 2022, added: “Being an orientation leader taught me how to engage, show loyalty, teach, guide, and most importantly, how to lead by example.”
Source:gulf-times.com
