Caring Orientation Info Pack

Orientation is the first step of university life. It should be a safe place where you feel respected and included.

Honour healthy boundaries, embrace diversity, and look out for one another.

Together, we create yOUR safe space.

More information: Caring Orientation Info Pack for Student Leaders

 

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(1)Healthy Boundaries

Healthy Boundaries

Starting university is exciting, but in the process of fitting in, it can sometimes feel difficult to say no.

During orientation, you may encounter situations where you are asked to join dares, disclose personal information (such as relationship history), or participate in activities like drinking games*. You might feel pressure to go along with the group.

But here’s an important reminder: your comfort and boundaries matter.

You always have the right to choose, e.g.:

  • Say no after giving a reason concisely
  • Choose a different level of participation
  • Take a break
  • Leave the situation entirely

(*EdUHK is an alcohol-free campus.)

Harassment: Know the Facts

EdUHK’s ‘Equal Opportunities Policy’ prohibits harassments based on sex, sexual orientation, disability, race, and breastfeeding.

Some believe that harassment must be intentional, repeated, or involve certain groups of people. Others think that if something is said as a joke, it cannot be harmful.

In reality, harassment is defined not by intention, but by impact. It can:

  • Happen to anyone, regardless of gender
  • Be a one-time incident
  • Involve words, text messages, or behaviours
  • Cause discomfort, embarrassment, or distress, even without intent
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(3)You Are Not Alone_ Help-Seeking

You Are Not Alone: Help-Seeking

If you experience something uncomfortable or upsetting during orientation, it’s important to know that you are not alone.

You might hesitate to seek help because:

“It’s probably not serious enough”, “I don’t want to cause trouble”, “Maybe I’m overthinking it”. But you deserve support regardless of how the situation may seem. Seeking help can include:

  • Talking to a trusted friend or peer
  • Reaching out to student leaders you feel safe with
  • Contacting University support services

Equal Opportunities and Disability Access Officer

Tel: 2948 6012

https://eocampus.eduhk.hk/support/enquiries/

Counselling Services

Tel: 2948 6245

Security Control Centre (24 hours)

Tel: 2948 8000

The “5Ds Active Bystander” Intervention Strategy

During orientation, you may witness situations that are inappropriate or even harmful. Knowing how to respond safely can make a meaningful difference. The “5Ds” provide practical ways to support others:

  • Direct means stopping the situation directly, if it’s safe to do so. For example, pointing out to the harasser that “this is inappropriate” or taking the victim to leave the scene.
  • Distract involves interrupting the situation without confrontation, such as changing the subject when sensing someone may feel embarrassed.
  • Delegate means seeking help from others you can trust, such as student leaders, staff, or security.
  • Delay focuses on checking in with the person affected afterward and see if you can provide support.
  • Document involves recording what happened under safe situation and use the information responsibly. For example, share it with the person affected if they would like to make a report.

It’s important to remember that your safety comes first. Choosing the most appropriate response depends on the situation and your comfort level.

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