Creativity, Connection and New Beginnings: Apeejay Institute of Design hosts orientation for new batch 

Marking the beginning of a new academic chapter, the Apeejay Institute of Design (AID), New Delhi, welcomed its new batch of students with an orientation programme. Designed as more than a formal introduction to the institute, the programme offered freshers an engaging first glimpse into AID’s academic environment, creative culture and vibrant student community.

The day commenced on an auspicious note with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Md. Asif Raza, Ms. Gita Chaudhary, Ms. Satinder Kaur and Mr. Devesh Mishra. This was followed by a welcome address by Ms. Satinder Kaur, Academic Coordinator. Introducing the faculty and administrative team helped students become familiar with the people who would guide and support them throughout their academic journey.

A key highlight was an interaction with guest speaker and AID alumnus Md. Asif Raza, Lead City Planning & Engagement, Climate Project, National Institute of Urban Affairs, New Delhi. Drawing from his professional and academic journey, he encouraged students to look beyond the classroom and approach their creative education with curiosity and openness.

For the students, his address proved particularly inspiring. Pradnya Mayur Chandorkar, GDP Foundation, Semester 1, described the orientation as an “informative and enjoyable experience” that helped her understand the course, campus environment and expectations for the semester. She highlighted Mr. Raza’s speech as one of the day’s most memorable moments, noting that his guidance encouraged students to explore new possibilities, find the right path and make meaningful choices.

The session was followed by “Life at AID”, presented by Dr. Priyanka Shukla, which introduced students to the experiences, opportunities and creative ecosystem of the institute. After lunch, senior students led an ice-breaking activity that encouraged freshers to interact, exchange conversations and overcome initial hesitation.

Students were also introduced to the institute’s various club activities by Ms. Anjali Taneja, encouraging them to explore their interests and participate actively beyond academics.

The most energetic segment of the programme was the team-building exercise “Creative Expression”, conducted by Ms. Anjali Taneja, Ms. Garima J. Saini, Mr. Dibyendu Tripathi and Mr. Mukesh Verma. Working in teams of four, students created team names and logos, shared talents and fun facts, and developed team mottos. They expressed themselves through storytelling, role play, interviews, skits, music, stop-motion and video editing. The activity transformed unfamiliar faces into collaborators and demonstrated how creativity can build connections.

Mohd Yunus Alvi, GDP Foundation, Semester 1, recalled his orientation as a “really good and memorable experience,” adding that the welcoming atmosphere helped him feel comfortable about beginning his college journey. He particularly appreciated Mr. Raza’s relatable account of his AID experience and the friendly interaction with seniors. He also enjoyed the group task of creating a two-minute story-based video, which helped students connect with one another.

The programme concluded with the distribution of the stationery list by Mr. Rajeshwar Singh, an introduction to the Student Handbook by Ms. Divya Virmani, and guidance on documents required for registration and verification.

Overall, the orientation successfully combined information, interaction and imagination, giving students not only an introduction to their new academic home but also the confidence, friendships and excitement to begin their journey at AID. It was, in every sense, a new batch, a new canvas and the beginning of countless creative possibilities.