The virtual Pre-departure Orientation for international students from China took place on June 17. The event, hosted by the China Gateway and the Offices of International Affairs, Student Academic Excellence and Student Life, provided 143 students and 28 family members with valuable information regarding their upcoming college life.
In addition, the China Gateway supported local alumni clubs in the Greater China region with an in-person send-off series. These special orientation events took place in Beijing and Chengdu on July 1 and Shenzhen and Shanghai on July 15. The send-offs played a role in fostering enduring connections, facilitating the establishment of friendships and offering a supportive network for these students before their arrival on campus. Seventy-six freshmen, 30 family members and 20 current and alumni student volunteers participated in the events in four cities. The send-offs served as a vital link connecting past, present and future Ohio State students. The alumni shared their experiences at Ohio State, leaving new students feel inspired, confident and enthusiastic.
Liuhan Chen, an incoming freshman, said, “This offline meeting enriches my expectation of my future life in Ohio. It is such a great experience listening to many alumni share their own experiences in Ohio, it really helped me and solved some of my questions. All in all, it is such joyful and meaningful experience!”
Tracy, a parent of new Buckeye, commented, “The Shanghai send-off receptions were helpful and the hosts were incredibly kind and encouraging. They gave new students the chance to meet other incoming freshmen, which was the first step in creating a support network that made the transition to university easier. The event provided new students and families a chance to ask all of their last-minute questions before move-in day and allowed parents a chance to network with other parents and alumni. I really appreciate the organizers' hard work.”