The Australian National University (ANU) welcomed new and returning students this week, highlighted by a kick-off event on the lawn of the Birch Building where new starters had the opportunity to meet academics and student leaders for the first time.
“We are thrilled to have you here,” said Dr Jeremy Smith, Interim Associate Dean Education. “In talking here today, I’m reflecting on my own time as an ANU student, where I started my undergraduate studies here in a double degree in engineering and IT exactly 30 years ago. Events such as this are a great way to meet your peers, as many of the connections you form in your early days will carry you through your time here.”
As part of Orientation Week, or ‘O-Week’, the ANU College of Engineering, Computing and Cybernetics (CECC) hosts a welcome luncheon for students from all the disciplines that make up our College. Acting Interim Dean Professor Chris Kellett congratulated the new cohort on starting their study journey and encouraged them to take part in other O-Week activities to learn about the places, faces, and opportunities at our University.
Professor Kellett also introduced the new name for the ANU College of Engineering, Computing and Cybernetics (CECC) to students who would have filed their applications when our College name did not include mention of the recently launched School of Cybernetics.
Rockets, newest solar car dazzle new starters
For many members of the community, it was a first opportunity to see the latest model of the solar car, the Solar Spirit, which will compete in 2023 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge (BWSC).
Most of College’s student-led organisations were on hand to recruit new members and to answer questions about studying at CECC, including student leaders from the ANU Computer Science Association, ANU Rocketry, ANU Fifty50, Engineers Without Borders, Robogals, ANU Solar Racing, and a partnership with the Australian Signals Directorate in our ASD-ANU Co-Lab.
Throughout the Semester 1 2023 O-Week, our College is hosting student welcome events, School induction sessions, and precinct tours. There’s also a CECC Concierge Service for drop-in enquiries where our current students are offering concierge services. Learn more about what’s on.
This week marks the first time since 2019 that we’re able to start an academic year without looming public health concerns. After three years of turbulence and disruption, we are excited to see our community unite on campus; and to see our new facilities, accommodation residences, our classrooms, and coffee shops animated again.