Education

Sunday August 14, 2005

Seniors not gangsters but friends

I REFER to the letter “
Nightmare of orientation” by Worried Parent (StarEducation, Aug 7).

I would like to comment as a former student in a local university.

Personally, all orientation programmes, whether in local or foreign universities, are similar. Orientation week is an important time for freshmen.

Waking up early – as early as 5.30am – and going to bed as late as 2am is pretty normal as the orientation schedule is hectic, with various activities packed in.

During orientation, students are usually not allowed to keep their hand phones or contact family and friends.

There are rules implemented to inculcate discipline among usually-pampered students. These rules train students to be independent while they are away from parents.

However, it is not right to label the seniors in Universiti Malaya (UM) as gangsters or members of a secret society.

These seniors sacrifice their time and energy during semester break to help freshmen adjust to the new campus environment.

They are friends and leaders who should be respected. They are just doing their part and do not intend to intimidate or humiliate new undergraduates. They only act tough and heartless during orientation week.

Perhaps it is time that Worried Parent lets his son be independent.

The orientation programme is just a small challenge compared to the other challenges that his son will have to face in future. If his son is interested in motivational activities, perhaps he can join the many societies and clubs in UM.

Lastly, I believe parents should trust the university in this matter.

FOO Via e-mail

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