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International student orientation covers a lot of ground

Aug. 23, 2004

KALAMAZOO--For one group of incoming students, Western Michigan University's special August orientation programs include activities such as negotiating the aisles of a giant discount department store and spending a day at the beach.

The activities are all part of the weeklong orientation program for international students that primarily takes place in the Bernhard Center, and this year runs Monday through Friday, Aug. 23-27. The program offers a conference-like format with mandatory informational sessions as well as optional interest sessions. As a result, students not only obtain practical information necessary for a successful transition to WMU, but also are able to tailor their orientation experience to meet their individual needs.

Orientation sessions cover everything from phone registration and grading policies to immigration regulations and "daily life" issues such as how to obtain health insurance and Michigan ID cards. The students also have a chance to venture off campus and learn more about the local area and everyday amenities that are available in the United States. Excursions scheduled include dinner off campus Monday, followed by a trip to Meijer to shop for "essentials," a trek to Crossroads Mall Thursday, and a daylong outing in Saugatuck, Mich., Friday.

For more information, contact Jin Abe in the Office of International Student and Scholar Services at (269) 387-5859 or <jin.abe@wmich.edu>.

Media contact: Jeanne Baron, 269 387-8400, jeanne.baron@wmich.edu

WMU News
Office of University Relations
Western Michigan University
1903 W Michigan Ave
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5433 USA
269 387-8400
www.wmich.edu/wmu/news