The first-ever orientation specifically designed for students in the online Master of Arts in International Relations (MAIR) and Master of International Service (MIS) programs marked a significant milestone this Fall semester. The goal of this event was to connect students to the School of International Service (SIS) and the broader American University (AU) communities and provide information on comprehensive support available to online graduate students.

The orientation featured an impressive collaboration across the university. Seven key offices from SIS and AU at large participated, offering students a wide-ranging introduction to available resources. Representatives from the Dean of Students Office, SIS Office of Career Development, Financial Aid, Veteran Services, Library, Graduate Leadership Council, and SIS Office of International Programs delivered concise, informative presentations tailored to the unique needs of online students.

Executive Director for Online and Executive Programs, Dr. Claudia Hofmann welcomed students, emphasizing SIS's commitment to the students academic and professional growth and highlighted the dedication of university offices in offering their full support to our students.

The event's format included two break-out sessions, an Academic Advising "mini-session" led by Mary Curby, Online and Executive Programs Academic Advisor, and a Study Abroad segment where current students from each of the programs shared their summer abroad experiences. This structure allowed for both program-specific information and broader insights into the SIS online graduate student experience.

This inaugural live orientation, and the newly launched SIS Online Graduate Programs Orientation Canvas course work in tandem to provide comprehensive support for new students and ensure they thrive in their academic journey from day one.