Dubai, 24 Aug. 2009  With the addition of new faculty to its teaching body, and the introduction of innovative programs to its curricula, the American University in Dubai (AUD) is set to kick-off the Fall 2009-2010 Semester smoothly. The University’s Student Services Office, with the support of AUD faculty and staff, is organizing the yearly Orientation event that will take place on Saturday, August 29, with the Parent and Dorms Orientation, and the Student Orientation on Sunday, August 30, followed by -on the 1st of September- the university’s first Iftar, the Club Sign Up and the Make your Own Sundae event that both old and new students eagerly await.

While talking about Student Services, Assistant Dean of Student Services and Student Support Manager, Mrs. Bushra Finaish says: “The entire Student Services staff is committed to helping students make their experience at AUD memorable, enriching, and rewarding. The Student Services Office aims at assisting students in the integration process, enabling them to readily become part of the university community, all the while supporting them both personally and professionally.” During Orientation, a short film about different aspects of life on campus will be showcased, accompanied by a series of presentations introducing the Student Services Team and discussing various AUD departments and services. Students will get familiar with: the Health Center, which offers daily health care and health education designed to support the physical and emotional health of students; the Housing division with it’s “Making Our Dorm Your Home” motto, ensuring safe, clean, and comfortable accommodation for students who require on-campus housing; the one-on-one personal Counseling services that provide support and guidance for students experiencing personal problems and seeking assistance; the Career Services division, assigned the task of managing students’ job-seeking process and offering degree seeking AUD students and alumni the opportunity to receive individualized career guidance; and the Athletics office that provides all students, faculty and staff with an athletic outlet and unique opportunities to “get involved”.

AUD’s President Dr. Lance de Masi, and Provost and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Jihad Nader will clarify all important issues for both parents and new comers. In addition, freshman will get better acquainted with campus buildings, facilities, schools and departments, with the help of Student Orientation Leaders. This crucial stage of new students’ insertion into university life will be concluded by an Iftar on Tuesday, in AUD’s Ramadan Tent, followed by an invitation for students to sign up for AUD’s several student clubs. The Orientation event will provide students with the needed information and confidence to join their respective classes, set to begin on August 31.