In preparation for the 2022/23 academic year, MSSM held two pre-departure gatherings this year: a virtual one and another physical one.
The virtual pre-departure gathering took place on 21st August with the intent of introducing freshers to the city of Manchester through a light-hearted presentation and game of Kahoot! Our affiliates were also given the platform to introduce their respective student organisations to the freshers. With so many recruitment drives opening soon, our freshers better buckle up for the ride of their life!
The physical pre-departure gathering was held one week after its virtual counterpart, where participants had the opportunity to meet with fellow Malaysians who will also be studying at the University of Manchester. Freshers also communicated concerns and clarified doubts with MSSM committee members in person.
This in-person gathering can be divided into three parts such that the first was a free-for-all get-to-know-you session, the second a speed-dating ice breaker, and the last a structured group discussion led by committee members. The whole event picked up pace once participants began trickling in and saying hi to new faces. They were able to meet people in similar courses, accommodation, and even flight times, all of which helped them feel more certain about their transition overseas.
Some questions that were asked included setting up bank accounts, which telcom plans to follow, accommodation locations and recommendations and more. MSSM also introduced our upcoming initiatives such as Ohana Berbonding as well as the upcoming MNight casting, both of which freshers are encouraged to sign up for to enrich their first year in university.
After communicating with many participants, the consensus was that the event was a fruitful one. As the day came to an end, everyone swapped contact and bid each other farewell, knowing they will be seeing each other soon in Manchester as a new chapter of their life begins.
21st & 28th August 2022
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