Arcadia Australia

What is Arcadia’s Orientation?

Arcadia’s orientation consists of 2-3 full days of fun activities, informative sessions, and engaging "getting to know you" games. This orientation is compulsory and takes place right after your arrival. During these days, all students and Arcadia staff gather to get to know each other, help you settle into Australia before your student life begins, and make new lifetime friends.

Arcadia staff will be at the airport to collect all the students and take them directly by coach bus to the orientation location.

To help you understand what to expect at Arcadia's Orientation, here is a sample from our recent orientation schedule in Fall 2024:

informative Sessions

The informative sessions during Arcadia’s orientation aim to familiarize you with your new life in Australia and support you through your academic journey. The following topics will be covered:

• Session 1: Australian Culture and Political Landscape:

This session will cover topics such as Aboriginal Australian culture, politics and socio-cultural factors, and the common Australian slang words you need to know.

• Session 2: Understanding Australian Education:

This session covers Australian grading system, transcripts, census dates and student’s responsibilities.

• Session 3: Must-know information:

All information regarding your visa, health and safety, action protocol when an emergency arise and basic safety rules to follow while in Australia among other points.

Activities

The activities included in Arcadia’s orientation are designed to be engaging, fun, and very “Aussie-oriented.” If you haven’t surfed before, you'll get your first chance on one of the most popular surfing beaches in New South Wales, Sydney (weather permitting). Additional activities include hiking, petting kangaroos, and visiting the iconic Sydney Opera House.

FAQS:

If you want to clear your mind up, go through the most common questions Arcadia staff encounter:

• Can I choose not to participate in Arcadia’s Orientation?
  • You are required to fully participate in orientation and all other mandatory aspects of your program as outlined in the Arcadia Abroad Student Handbook. We can accommodate special circumstances, but we need to know in advance to assist you effectively.
• Please review the 'Welcome Email' sent a month before your arrival, which contains all the necessary information you need.
  • Swimwear / Sunscreen / Hat / Sunglasses 
  • Toiletries
  • Warm Clothes (Jacket, Tights, Windbreaker). The weather can be a little unpredictable in Australia.

Make sure you research the university you're attending and its location in Australia, as this will affect what you need to pack. The points mentioned above are essential for orientation.

• What if my flight is delayed? 
  • Please keep us informed of any changes to your flights. If there is a substantial delay, contact us directly, and we can arrange something for you.
• Can we know with whom we will be rooming?
  • You will not know who you will be rooming with until you arrive at your housing location. 
• If I arrive before the rest of the students, where is the meeting point?
  • Please refer to the ‘Arrival Guide’ and will also be sent on the group chat.
• I have dietary requirements. How can I let you know?
  • If you have had any changes to your dietary requirements since speaking with the Health, Safety, & Student Affairs Team in the U.S, please inform AUS staff upon arrival immediately.
• What is the best way of communication with Arcadia staff? 
  • WhatsApp or email. We will ask you to download this app if you do not use it at home as it's our easiest way of communication and help us to keep the students updated.