From the Heart of Summer, a New Journey Begins at NCKU
Each September, National Cheng Kung University welcomes a new cohort of first-year students ready to begin a new chapter. To support their transition, NCKU brings together academic and student affairs units and student organizations to help freshmen prepare for university learning, navigate campus life, and find their place in the community.
The transition to university begins before the semester starts. Over the summer, NCKU’s undergraduate preparatory courses introduce incoming students to university-level learning, while the Office of the First-Year Student provides a one-stop source for essential enrollment and campus-life information. Also, through the Student Union’s “Newbie Village” peer tours and support from student volunteers during dormitory move-in, freshmen can quickly become familiar with the campus and feel more at home at NCKU.
From NCKU Freshman Camp to NCKU Login: Unlocking New Possibilities on Campus
Drawing on Tainan’s distinctive “Turning 16” coming-of-age tradition, the 16th NCKU Freshman Camp, “Rise to Prime, Shape the Unknown,” welcomed 3,350 first-year students with a series of immersive activities that encouraged them to reflect on growth, independence, and the start of a new chapter at NCKU.
After enrollment, “Logging In to NCKU: Campus Discovery Missions” offers two essential missions and seven advanced challenges. Activities introduce laboratories, libraries, the student club fair, social and emotional learning (SEL) sessions, and digital investing and personal finance resources.
QR-code challenges and a point-collection system encourage hands-on exploration. Students discover their interests, connect with resources, and begin to find their place in the university community.
Continuing Support for University Life
Support continues beyond orientation. NCKU’s campus events information system, “Shining NCKU,” and the Student Affairs Newsletter keep students informed about activities, learning opportunities, and support services.
From summer courses and enrollment guidance to the new student growth camp and campus discovery missions, NCKU connects preparation before enrollment with support after arrival. Collaboration across university units helps newcomers get to know campus, find the resources they need, and begin university life with confidence.