Welcome to the Jam, PIDSSA 101ers.

Our names are Amanda Marochko and Emilie Poitevin and we’re your VP Socials for the 2010-2011 year. This means that not only do we plan your 101 week, we make sure that the party continues all year long through social programming at the University of Ottawa. Let us give you a run down of what is in store for you.

Imagine: We start off the week with some icebreakers followed by an inter-faculty cabin bash. Then on Monday, we have the biggest kick off concert, called FEDSTOCK, featuring some of today’s hottest artists. Tuesday we get our best Shine face on for Shinerama, a campaign to combat cystic fibrosis and then we're on a boat (yes, a boat)to party the night away. Wednesday we share some laughs at our very own campus comedy night featuring world renowned comediean Martha Chaves and some special guest . Then on Thursday, we host the Space Jam – an inter-galactic, neon 90’s party in which we’re the VIP of the evening. But, we're not done yet, Friday we relax by the fire and sing the best camp songs at the beach, all while competing for the coveted PIDCUP – a cup which symbolizes that your team was the best and brightest of the week (included with the PIDCUP is prizes for all of your teammates). And Finally, Saturday, we wrap it all up at Closing Ceremonies where we take over the streets in Hull.

And that's only the beginning! We've planned many day excursions and alternative events so we can cater to every 101er out there. Think – Young and Fabulous tour of Parliament Hill where you will meet some of the most happenin’ Members of Parliament; Venus Envy Workshops – this isn’t your 3rd grade sexual education class; and trade-up where you will get to know our city and find out how a paperclip can really turn into a fotune.

We have a fun-filled year planned out and this is just the beginning of your journey. On behalf of the PIDSSA executive, we'd like to extend a very, very warm welcome to the best student association on this campus. You're now part of the big leagues. PIDSSA is one of the biggest and most influential student associations around and we're excited to have more and more first year students joining our ranks each year. Remember to take the time and get involved and stay active on campus. These nexts years will be some of the best of your life, and it all begins during your 101 week.

We're looking forward to meeting each and every one of you in September!

Marochko and Emilie