The Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar welcomed on Sunday the 46 news students of the Class of 2009 with a presentation of gifts. The Sunday welcome by faculty and administration marked the climax of an intense and exciting week of orientation activities where both students and parents were informed about the challenges and diligence involved in getting a Fine Arts degree. Parents were informed by Assistant Dean for Student Affairs Valerie Jeremijenko that the successful completion of the application process for the class of 2009 was only the beginning of the parent’s commitment to their daughter’s education. Regarding the incoming students she stated, “they are an exceptional bunch of students, they exhibit artistic flair, energy, exuberance and we are very excited about them coming here.”
The comprehensive week of activities included Family Night for both incoming students and their families on Monday, followed the next day by sessions that included highlights of the preceding year’s activities, session on cross cultural awareness, a math test and traditional Arabic Coffee and Sweets. In the evening the students were treated to a private “girl’s night out” at Fun Town. On Wednesday the students were able to gain new insights about work study and financial aid during informational rotations led by current students. The evening was capped with a sunset cruise on two chartered dhows where the students and faculty participated in a “get to know you” session that allowed both to learn about each others liked and disliked activities. Afterwards everyone was treated to a lavish dinner with traditional Arabic foods.
Thursday capped the weeklong activities with alumni and student panels, goal setting activities led by Counselor Laura Green and concluding with the presentation of gifts by Dr. Charles Bleick, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs. He noted that, “the incoming students exhibit remarkable artistic potential.”
