Dundee University’s principal told 3,000 new students yesterday their experiences in pursuit of their degrees have the potential to be the most influential in their lives.
Welcoming the undergraduates at a gathering at the Caird Hall, Professor Pete Downes said the ability of university education to transform lives goes beyond the gain of qualifications and the skills which future employers would find desirable.
“Your studies will inspire independent thinking and critical reflection, you will be encouraged to challenge existing wisdom and you will go on to use these experiences in all aspects of your life,” he told them.
They were joining a community of around 17,000 students and 3,500 staff from local, national and international backgrounds and each one was valued.
The campus was not a cloistered environment where academic achievement was the be all and end all. Dundee University sought to foster confidence, creativity, enterprise and innovation among students.
The university valued lifelong relationships with its students from their first inquiry, throughout their studies and in their future lives as alumni where they will join a community of 60,000 graduates across 150 countries.
“I wish you all well for the future and hope you will take pride in the success of your university, as we will undoubtedly take pride in the achievements of each and every one of you,” the principal added.
Students are matriculating this week and classes start next Monday. A small army of staff, supported by student volunteers, are helping the new arrivals settle.
New students can also access information through the Welcome Week 2013 website.