BMO Student Street was bustling with new and returning students for the Orientation Resource Fair on January 11. Evan Hilchey, Director of Student Affairs, said, “The first six weeks are the most critical time for a new student, it’s essential for us to be available, and to foster a connection by personalizing our programs.”
When navigating your way through new classes, grappling with change, battling loneliness or academic anxiety, a support system is paramount. It might be difficult to keep track of the many options available on campus. If you meet the people behind the programming, you’re all the more likely to remember the service, or know who to connect with to seek more information. Sometimes it takes just one person—one new friend—to help with the transition through the turbulent first (or second, or third!) semester.
Julie Taylor, Learning Strategist, Orientation and Transition, features student volunteers at the forefront of these events: “we want them to be as involved as much as possible as they are the first point of contact for new and returning students.” Friendship connections are a major component to personal satisfaction, and Julie strives to incorporate that element to the transition period. “The peer-to-peer connection is very powerful and has a great impact.”
Armed with a Resource Fair passport, students checked in with individual booths that offered advice regarding Academic Support, Campus Life, Health and Wellness, as well as Money, Employment and Career Development. University is more than classes, there is a world of resources available that will set you up for success that reaches far beyond graduation.
Carmen, a fourth year student, couldn’t resist checking out the Career Mentorship table, “Nearly ready to graduate, I’m interested in checking out my options from Career Mentorship.” New-to-TRU students Emily and Laura, had arrived from Germany just a week before and were thrilled to see what services were available. Emily said, “it’s great to get advice about many subjects in one place” and Laura agreed: “This is a perfect introduction to TRU.”
Ultimately, Student Services are meant to heighten the positive student experience at TRU. There is no need to struggle or suffer silently because there is a team of people behind you.
“These events are all about breaking down the barriers of communication for students. We care, and we want to see you succeed in all capacities” Evan said. “We want new and returning students to know that we are so excited to have you here and that we are here to support you.”
For more information about Student Services, refer to the website, tru.ca/campus/services
