All about SPLASH

SPLASH is a one-day orientation designed for international student that will be held before the whole student body orientation. It is geared toward international students so they understand the regulations regarding visa, healthcare, and other stuffs that international students need to be aware of.

I understand that most of the topics discussed at during SPLASH will be common sense. Make no mistakes! Some students might accidentally become out of status if they don’t take enough classes or work without getting any permissions from the school. In short, pay attention and it could save you a lot of time and troubles in the future.

Looking back at SPLASH and my first-year at Pepperdine, I realize that I can’t remember most of the things that I learned in class. Yet, as someone that’s an introvert, I’m proud to say that I was able to push myself to get to know as many people as possible and had a great time with them.

Three things that I recommend international students do:

  • Get to know as many classmates as possible. Remember their name and try to talk to them as much as possible. You never know if they know someone or a job that you’ve been looking for. It’s easier for us to talk with someone from the same country, but I can guarantee you that if you want to be a good networker, you need to be able to connect with anybody… the best way to do so is practice, practice, and practice.
  • Be social and participate in all the Thursday night mixers with your classmates… you'll have a great time. You won’t remember a lot of things, but you will remember the feeling that you experience with others. Try to be involved in something that you can look back, smile, and talk about in the future.
  • Help your friends! If you know of any opportunities out there that you’re not planning to pursue, share it with your friends. I can guarantee you that your friends will appreciate any opportunities and this kind of attitude will take you a long way.

In any case, enjoy your time at Pepperdine! It will go by really fast!