Behind the scenes: How Parami helps new students feel prepared for their first semester

Parami students in Chiang Mai connect during an in-person gathering

Every academic journey begins long before the first class. 

As Parami University welcomes the Class of 2030 in August, teams across the university are working behind the scenes to help new students feel prepared, connected, and confident as they begin their university journey.

Starting university is an exciting new chapter, but it can also come with uncertainty—particularly in an online learning environment. New students are not only navigating unfamiliar courses and technologies, but also learning how to participate in academic discussions, manage their studies, and build connections within a new community.

To help ease this transition, teams across Parami University are working together before the first class of the new semester to lay a strong foundation for an engaging and meaningful university experience.

Introducing Students to the Parami Learning Experience 

Before first-year students attend their first class, the faculty and the academic affairs team focus on helping students understand what learning at Parami University looks like. Through two orientation workshops led by the Division Chairs, students are introduced to the essence of liberal arts and sciences education at Parami, the structure of the curriculum, the rigorous academic expectations, and the collaborative nature of online synchronous learning. 

Dr. Win Maw Hlaing Oo, Chair of the Division of Mathematics and Data Science, shared three tips with new students: "First, be curious. Learning is all about curiosity. Second, be open-minded. Third, be able to think from different angles."

His orientation workshop, "Science and Liberal Arts: The Power of Interdisciplinary," will encourage students to explore connections across two disciplines and understand how different ways of thinking can help solve complex problems. 

Similarly, Dr. David Golding, Chair of the Division of Social Science and Humanities, invites students to embrace uncertainty as part of the learning process in his advice to new students: "My advice to students who are just starting at Parami University is to be comfortable with not understanding... Eventually, you will enjoy the mystery of the world of ideas."

Dr. Golding’s orientation workshop, "Pursuing Your Intellectual Curiosity," encourages students to approach challenging ideas with an open mind and meaningful questions. 

Curious minds, meaningful questions, open discussions, and different perspectives are expected in the classrooms of Parami, as a journey of exploration rather than simply finding the right answers.

Helping Students Navigate Their Academic Journey 

Academic advisors and the Language and Learning Center (LLC) play an important role in supporting students throughout their time at Parami. From choosing courses to study, course registration, understanding academic requirements, and discussing students’ interests and future goals, advisors provide guidance to help students make informed decisions about their academic pathways and access the right resources they need. 

The Language and Learning Center (LLC) is one of Parami University's resources that helps students strengthen their communication and academic skills. As part of the orientation, the team will lead a session called “English and Academic Skills Support” to help familiarize students with one-on-one tutoring, academic writing, and professional and academic communication. 

"Welcome to Parami! It's completely normal not to know everything or feel a bit uncomfortable at first in a new place. That feeling fades as you find your footing. Just remember, we're always here to help you throughout your journey," said the Academic Advising Team.

Preparing Students for Online Learning

For students beginning their university online, feeling comfortable with the technology is an important part of feeling prepared for class. That’s where the EdTech team comes in as a key role in helping students navigate Parami’s digital learning environment and ensuring technology support. 

Before the classes begin, the EdTech team makes sure new students understand how to access course materials and resources, participate in synchronous classes, and know where to turn when they encounter technical difficulties. Mason, the EdTech Manager, encouraged new students, 

"Starting in an online classroom may feel unfamiliar at first, but you don't need to be a technology expert to succeed. Be curious, ask questions, and don't be afraid to make mistakes. Join your classes a few minutes early and take time to explore the learning tools. Our EdTech team is here to ensure that technology empowers your learning, not becomes a barrier." 

Building Connections Beyond the Classroom

Attending a university is about more than studying; it is also about finding a sense of belonging and community. 

In addition to academic preparation, new students will learn about campus life, student clubs, wellbeing resources, and opportunities to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds during orientation activities. 

There are several orientation workshops led by the different units from both academic and administrative departments, including the Language and Learning Center (LLC) and Parami University Career Development Center (PUCDC). Each session is designed to help new students navigate different aspects of university life—from academics and technology to career planning and student engagement. 

Aung Myin Thu, the Director of Admissions and Student Affairs, shared that “The goal of orientation is not only to provide essential information, but to help students build connections, develop a sense of belonging, and feel confident in seeking support when they need it."

He added that the Student Affairs team works with students by listening to their perspectives and collaborating with the Student Council and the university teams to create supportive opportunities and resources that help students grow academically and personally, and build meaningful connections beyond the classroom.”

One Shared Mission 

Preparing for a new academic year is a collaborative effort across many teams at Parami University. While faculty members inspire intellectual curiosity, Academic advisors guide students through their academic journey, the Student Affairs team works on creating a welcoming environment for all students, and many other teams provide different types of support for one shared mission of student success. 

As the Class of 2030 begins this new chapter, students are encouraged to embrace new ideas, ask questions, seek support, explore, and make the most of the new opportunities. Every conversation, connection, and experience is a part of the journey. 

Welcome to Parami University, Class of 2030. Welcome to the Yellow Circle!