AUS launches first international chapter of Alpha Lambda Delta first-year honor society

The beginning of any school year brings with it a fresh burst of anticipation and motivation. For first-year university students, this excitement is multiplied. The transition from high school to college is full of new opportunities, entrusted responsibilities, and a broadened community. However, increased academic rigor and unprecedented freedom can lead some first-year students to feel overwhelmed. It is commendable to see students succeed despite these challenges. To recognize such students, the Academic Support Center at American University of Sharjah recently launched the first international chapter of Alpha Lambda Delta (ALD), a First-Year Honor Society. Over 200 committed and high-achieving students were inducted as founding members of the chapter on February 11.

“We are so excited to bring this opportunity to the UAE. AUS students can now be part of an international community of high-achieving first-years poised to make an impact on a global scale. ALD will provide our first-year honors students with global scholarship, leadership and networking opportunities that will open doors for advancement for years to come,” said Dr. Mehvash Ali, the Director of the Academic Support Center and First Year Experience (FYE) at AUS.

The AUS chapter will provide leadership opportunities for students from various majors and backgrounds to connect with other like-minded classmates, fostering a sense of belonging that breeds self-efficacy and success.

 “As a student that was in her shell throughout high school, I believe ALD provides me with the perfect opportunity to meet new friends, learn leadership skills while improving on my existing skills, and grow into a more well-rounded student," said first-year ALD member Vini Rupchandani.

ALD dates back to 1924 when it was founded to recognize academic excellence in first-year students. With the motto “we must pass our torches on, one to another,” ALD aims to cultivate a love for learning and encourage high academic attainment among first-year students. It has grown to almost 300 chapters at universities across the United States and has initiated over one million students.

Members of ALD at AUS will have the opportunity to receive scholarships, build leadership skills and network with other student scholars through community building and outreach.

“When we entrust students with responsibility and opportunity early in their academic career, it empowers them to strive beyond their potential. I really believe that many of these ALD scholars will rise up as influential leaders on our campus, in their community and all over the world,” said Erica Payne, ALD Chapter Advisor and FYE Coordinator at AUS. 

For incoming students aspiring to similar accomplishments, AUS offers a variety of academic support services that provide tools to equip first-year students with the skills needed to thrive during this transition. Students who utilize these types of services often reflect that they feel more confident in their classes.