Acquaintance Day has become a deep-rooted tradition at Notre Dame University-Shouf Campus. This time also, the Campus had a special way of welcoming its new students back to the new academic year 2018-2019.
In an atmosphere of mirth and enthusiasm, the Campus was alive with music, dance, games, conversations, food, and laughter. New, old, and graduated students joined the faculty members and staff to share memorable moments on September 28, 2018.
The opening ceremony started at 12:30 p.m. with a mass. Then, Fr. Naji Khalil, NDU-SC Director, delivered a speech in which he warmly welcomed all students on campus, hoping the rest of the day would be unforgettable, relaxing, and full of fun, giving them some respite from hard work in and outside of classrooms.
Fr. Khalil added that NDU-SC is a special place which offers students a quality education and interesting social activities through its different clubs. It is the ideal setting for future generations and a distinguished model of social cohesion among all its family members.
Concluding his speech, he thanked all the SC family for their efforts and urged them to preserve the spirit of dedication and commitment to maintain academic excellence and ensure student satisfaction. Addressing the pupils at the end, he said: “You, dear students, are the hope of Lebanon. You, in particular, who live in the heart of Mount Lebanon, are the promising future of our beloved country. God bless you, and may this academic year bear the fruits of success to all”.
For his part, Coordinator of the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences (FNAS) Dr. Jacques Bou Abdo, delivered a speech on behalf of all the coordinators of the faculties, where he highlighted the lasting impact that first experiences, namely the learning experience at NDU, have on students’ life and future. He invited students to trust their tutors and make use of their potential to shape their future and reach their goals in life. He also presented the faculties and their members to the new students and wished them all a joyful time.
Speeches resumed with Alumna Sawsan Wehbe who delivered a word of appreciation on behalf of all the Student Union members, thanking NDU administration and instructors for their help and support. She ended by encouraging the new pupils to engage in all the activities, register their names in the clubs, and feel relaxed to deal friendly with their coordinators and professors.
“Have fun!” Fr. Khalil concluded the speech part of the event, and the delightful occasion proceeded with a toast.
Late at night, the campus clubs took to the stage and launched the party with dancing and sharing of the most entertaining games. It was a wonderful beginning of a promising academic year.