Commercii Exec's O-Week Adventure: Welcoming the Future of Commerce!

O-Week at the University of Pretoria is a whirlwind of excitement, nerves, and new beginnings. For the Commercii Executive Committee, it's a time to welcome the fresh faces joining our faculty and make their transition as smooth and memorable as possible. This year was no exception, and we were absolutely buzzing with anticipation to meet the future leaders of the commerce world!

From the moment Welcome Day kicked off, we were ready to dive in. The Aula was a sea of eager first-years, and we were thrilled to answer their questions – and there were tons of them! From course selections and study tips to club information and the best spots on campus for a late-night coffee run, we covered it all. We loved seeing the spark of curiosity in their eyes and helping them navigate those first, sometimes overwhelming, steps into university life.

But O-Week isn't just about answering questions; it's about creating a welcoming and fun atmosphere. That's where our gazebos and games came in! We set up shop on the Aula grass and the Piazza, creating vibrant hubs of activity. Think giant Jenga, bean bag toss, and plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow students and the Commercii team. The laughter and friendly competition were contagious, and it was fantastic to see the first years relax and start building connections.

Behind the scenes, O-Week was a marathon of long hours and dedicated teamwork. Setting up gazebos, organizing games, preparing information packs, and simply being present for the first years required a huge effort from the entire committee. But we were fuelled by the energy and enthusiasm of the new students. Seeing their smiles and knowing we were playing a part in their positive O-Week experience made every long hour worthwhile.

One of the most rewarding aspects of O-Week is the opportunity to offer encouragement to the first years. Starting university is a big step, and it's natural to feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. We wanted to let them know that the Commercii community is here to support them every step of the way. We shared our own experiences, offered study tips, and emphasized the incredible opportunities that lie ahead. We truly believe in their potential and can't wait to see what they accomplish.

O-Week 2025 was an incredible experience for the Commercii Executive Committee. We were inspired by the enthusiasm of the first years, strengthened by our teamwork, and reminded of the vibrant and supportive community that makes the University of Pretoria so special. We're excited to welcome these new students to the Commercii family and look forward to seeing them thrive in the years to come!