The 2024-2025 New Student Orientation took place on August 29, 2024, welcoming this year’s new class to the university. To help the first-year students become acclimated to the university, a group of Peer Advisors and fellow AUD Knights came together for the start of the new academic year with a list of speeches, a campus tour, and icebreakers for the perfect start to a new academic year. One of AUD’s newest International Relations students, Rofayda Gomaa, expressed her excitement for joining the university: “I chose AUD because there’s a lot of diversity with the students and faculty… it gives you more opportunities,” and true to the student’s words, AUD is home to over 101 nationalities in students, faculty, and staff.

The orientation day started with an opening address by Dr. Sara L. Montero, the Dean of Student Affairs. Known for her dedication to student engagement and well-being, Dr. Montero set the tone for the day with her warm and welcoming remarks. The orientation day also included an inspiring speech by AUD’s newly appointed president, Dr. Kyle Long. “Here at AUD, we’re going to provide you with the tools, support to redefine your abilities and achieve beyond what you thought was possible.” On behalf of the university, Dr. Long promises both old and new students support in their endeavors both educationally and professionally. AUD does this through their extensive student-led clubs as well as various programs and opportunities for students such as the Career Services and Study Abroad and Exchange departments.

The president’s speech was followed by alumni speeches, a segment titled “Life after AUD” where three former students were invited to communicate how the university has helped shape and prepare them for their futures. This was followed by a senior student’s testimonial on her experience with studying abroad at IESEG School of Management, one of AUD’s partner schools in Paris, France. The students were divided into their respective programs for tours of the five schools and meeting their respective deans and chairs: School of Architecture, Art, and Design; School of Arts and Sciences; School of Business; and the Mohammed Bin Rashed School for Communication. The day ended with a bowling and arcades trip with the Student Government Association (SGA) to encourage networking amongst each other as well as with the New Student Orientation volunteers.