The University of Aruba (UA) welcomed more than 860 students who were admitted for this academic year, where we have more over 300 students who started a new program at the university. On August 18 and 19 for its annual O’Days, marking the start of a new academic journey for students from Aruba and abroad.
This year’s theme, “Your Pattern Shapes More Than You,” invited students to think beyond their individual academic success and consider the influence they have on the people and community around them.
At UA, the start of the academic year is about more than finding a classroom or receiving a timetable. The two-day welcome program was designed to help new students feel at home, meet the people who will support them throughout their studies, discover the university and begin building connections with fellow students.
Throughout the two days, students were introduced to the different offices, services and centers available to them, including student wellbeing and guidance, the library, International Office, Educational Affairs and other support services. The goal was to make sure students know where they can turn when they need information, guidance or simply someone to talk to.
Learning about the university was combined with activities that encouraged students to step outside their comfort zones and connect with one another. One of the highlights was a university-wide fox hunt, which challenged students to discover more about the people, places and lush green surroundings of the UA campus while working together.
The first day ended around the dinner table, with staff members, deans and program coordinators serving dinner to the new students. More than a practical gesture, the moment reflected an important message UA hopes to communicate from the beginning: we are here to support you, serve you and grow together.
Day two brought another dimension to the welcome program, with culture, movement and fun taking center stage. Aruba Salsa guided students through an energetic introduction to dance and culture, creating an atmosphere where students could relax, interact and enjoy themselves.
The program also created space for meaningful conversations and connections. This year, UA welcomed more than 40 international students from across Europe who will be joining the university community. Their presence adds another layer to the diverse learning environment UA continues to build.
The two days concluded with fun-in-the-sun activities, games and conversations, giving students the opportunity to simply enjoy each other’s company before beginning their academic routines.
But perhaps the most meaningful part of the O’Days was the reflection on the theme itself.
Throughout the program, students were encouraged to think about the kind of pattern they want to create during their time at UA. Their choices, relationships, knowledge, experiences and actions will all become part of their individual journey—but also contribute to the larger pattern of the university community.
As UAchievers, students are encouraged to discover their potential, empower those around them and think about the impact they can make beyond the classroom.
The University of Aruba extends its appreciation to all staff members, student assistants, lecturers, deans and coordinators who contributed to making the O’Days a warm and joyful start to the academic year.
With more than 268 new students now beginning their journey at UA, one question remains with them:
What kind of pattern will you create?
