Most fashion schools or universities will likely have some form of O-Week, or events for first year students. You may want to go to all of them, or some, or none.. but you really should visit the event for Campus Orientation. This is usually one of the first scheduled events, where they welcome all of the new students to campus and show them the ropes before classes start.
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| Tertiary institutions use food as a way to gather students, it's very effective. |
You've already passed the first hurdle by being accepted into your institution, so congratulations!
Orientation isn't as glorified (not sunshines and rainbows, like open day), but is more focused on getting to know the students who will be attending and giving them a tour on what campus life is like. It's meant to be a fun day, so make the most of it.
There is often a good chance there will be free food too, so if that entices your hungry student lifestyle then you will have a great time.
From both orientation events i've attended, in New Zealand we begin with a Maori welcoming ceremony known as a Powhiri. This is a cultural tradition; Institutions overseas will not have this in particular, but might have something similar in the form of speeches or welcoming ceremonies.
Following this, we would gather in a lecture room and be given a briefing on what to expect for the year. It's best to just listen and asorb the information. It will most likely be very generalised, but it you are given any special codes or numbers (for security or wifi), it's easier to note them now than search later.
We would then be taken to the specific departments we will be working in. If your institution features more than just a fashion degree, then this is where you will meet your smaller streams/groups who are also studying fashion design. Once again, just sit back and absorb the information. It might sound a little dull, but as long as you've heard it then you'll be pretty much set for the first day.
Here's some Do's and Dont's when it comes to Orientation, or the first few days of fashion school:
Do: Say hello!
This can feel as one of the most awkward things to do when starting out. If you're not comfortable with going up to people and talking, try to make small chit-chat while taking the fresher group photo or lining up for something to eat.
Another good way to start a conversation is to chat about what you see on tour, what are they excited about? What classes are they taking and do they match up with yours? The first person I said hello to ended up being my closest friend all year, but don't feel pressured if things don't work out right away. Everyone feels out of place on the first few days.
Do: Ask Questions!
There should be students in their later years of study helping around campus on orientation day. They already know the secrets on the courses and can provide some insight on what you will be learning if you just ask!
Also, if you're lost or don't know which room to go to; you will look far less awkward asking someone where to go, rather than just walk in circles and arrive late..... um, trust me on this one..
Your tutors and lecturers know everything about the papers you will be studying. Don't worry if your question might sound silly to them, they're there to help and you can only gain assistance if you actively seek it.
Do: Find your resources before you need them:
Like I said earlier, if you have any codes, passwords or accounts you need to activate in order to study, do it asap. If you need to register for a student ID, make sure to organise that too (you can get student discounts if you have one!)
Tutor phone numbers, emails, student services (such as the medical centre, counselling or learning assistance), be sure you know where these are located and feel secure that you are able to access these if the situation calls for it.
Don't: Feel the need to dress up
Yes, I know you're a fashion student! But trade up the heels for some comfortable boots or shoes for walking around in, wear something easygoing. At the end of the day, it's not about what you wear to class, it's what you design IN class that really matters!
There's often rules around working with equipment also; such as having hair tied back or closed-toed shoes when near sewing machines. Better to just stick to the basics and let the creative work speak your personal style for itself.
Don't: Push yourself too far
I don't mean this as an excuse to slack off or neglect studies. But oftentimes when starting in a new place, there can be a lot of pressure to feel welcome and be a part of the crowd. I recommend putting yourself out there to make friends; but within the first few weeks, make sure to find your balance between study and personal life. The process of study in fashion school is completely different to high school and it can take some adjusting, along with the pressure of night life/relationships/flatting situations.
Take a little time to yourself and think through what the next few weeks will be like. Make primary decisions in favour to your studies, but also bring a little time to be with friends. You will find a system eventually, just don't overcommit everything you have already.
- Brittany
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