It’s hot, it’s exciting, it’s a jungle out there — that’s the New Student Orientation theme this year at UPEI — and the sense of anticipation is getting stronger every day. NSO registration is already open, and 70 student volunteers are working feverishly to make sure this year’s program is an unforgettable experience for everyone attending UPEI for the first time.

“Through NSO, new students get to know the campus, our facilities, some of our faculty, and the city of Charlottetown. It is the perfect way to experience campus life and to get to know one another before the semester even starts,” says Patrick Greco, one of this year’s NSO co-ordinators. “Last year everyone had a blast. The only major complaints came from people who were disappointed that they didn’t sign up.”

NSO 2009 activities include everything from Tarzan and Jane's Jungle Gala, to a Baboon Brunch, to a Picnic Face Comedy Hour, to a mesmerizing performance by Damian the Hypnotist. And during their annual Shinerama campaign, new students will spread their high spirits around the bustling streets of Charlottetown to raise funds to help conquer Cystic Fibrosis.

This year New Student Orientation will continue well beyond the traditional welcome-week activities. The University has expanded the program to include one NSO event every month, from October through to the end of March.

Students can now sign up for NSO 2009 online at upei.ca, via Campus Login. More information about the schedule is available at upei.ca/nso