Anticipation filled the air at Antonine University (UA) as the Welcome Week 2023 kicked off from September 18 to 22, 2023. Embodied by the theme Discover, Connect, Belong, this unique week was carefully crafted to guide both new and returning students on a voyage of uncovering the wealth of resources accessible at UA while fostering a profound sense of connection and belonging within the UA community.

During the Welcome Week 2023, UA campuses served as airport runways, ensuring that students were well-equipped before embarking on their academic journey. The week was packed with a dynamic series of activities across our Hadat–Baabda, Nabi Ayla–Zahle, and Mejdlaya–Zgharta Campuses, introducing students to the myriad of programs, services, and facilities that UA offers.

The week began with the Connect With the Services segment, a bustling hub where students engaged with a wide array of campus services. During this dynamic gathering, students were presented with the exclusive UA Passport, a valuable document that guided their participation in the week’s special activities. This Passport was more than just a souvenir; it held the key to a thrilling opportunity: by keeping track of their activities, students earned a chance to enter the Sunset Gathering’s grand draw, with an exciting prize awaiting the lucky winner — a trip to explore the rich Turkish culture.

Moreover, students attended an enlightening session on Discovering University Success, led by the UA Counselor, Ms. Micheline Sammour. They delved into secret strategies and empowering tools needed to thrive in the university environment. In the presence of deans, heads of departments, and esteemed faculty members, students embarked on an opportunity to network, gain a deeper understanding of their academic paths, and set the course for their future studies under a session titled Discover Your Faculty.

The air crackled with excitement during the Creed III Movie Night, where students enjoyed a cinematic experience accompanied by popcorn and refreshing beverages. Those looking to be active participants in UA’s community explored a multitude of club opportunities, immersing themselves in the world of volunteering. They also dug into the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), fostering a sense of responsibility toward the global community.

Additionally, sports enthusiasts had a blast with a variety of activities on offer, including table tennis, basketball, badminton, and football, catering to a wide range of interests and skill levels. As for those seeking a more expressive outlet, the Colors and Connection Art Session provided a creative and therapeutic space where students could unwind and freely express themselves through art.

Students also got the opportunity to Connect With the UA Rector. During this momentous occasion, students, staff, and faculty gathered to listen to the inspiring words of the UA Rector. They also had the chance to forge connections and bonds over refreshments and snacks, strengthening the sense of unity within the UA community.

As the sun set on the UA Welcome Week 2023, students got to enjoy mesmerizing performances by the band Oof Tune, as well as Georges Assi and Sophia Khoury, during the Sunset Gathering. Attendees indulged in delicious food and beverages as they celebrated the achievements of the week together. Additionally, some lucky participants walked away with fantastic prizes from competitions held during the gathering, including vouchers from McDonald’s, Acai Lebanon, and Vox Gold Cinemas. But the grand prize, a ticket to discover and connect with Turkish culture, went to Michel Jalakh, a first-year student in the Faculty of Sport Sciences (FSS). Michel was the fortunate winner of the UA Passport Draw, having completed various activities throughout the week.

The UA Welcome Week 2023 was an exhilarating journey filled with exploration, connection, and unforgettable moments. As we move forward in this academic year, let the bonds formed during this special week serve as a testament to UA’s commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where all students can thrive and forge lifelong friendships.