UM student supports and how to find them
Looking for health and wellness supports? Have questions about where to get studying tips? A breadth of resources have been developed for you to help with personal and academic needs and to help you stay connected. Resources and services have been adapted to our current circumstances by delivering support programming in new ways. Whether you are physically on campus or learning remotely, all interested students can access these resources, services and supports. Information on what is open, how and where to access it, and resources that support students holistically can be found on our COVID-19 information for students website.
Keep informed of your options and new opportunities, services and supports by regularly checking out the Student Weekly e-newsletter that will be delivered to your UM email each Tuesday (undergrad version) or Thursday (graduate student version) and by following the UM student Instagram, Facebook and Twitter accounts for regular updates.
First year students are encouraged to check out UM Commons for tips and resources designed specifically for the first year journey and to follow the First Year Centre on Instagram.
Parents and supporters who want to know how to best support their students are encouraged to visit this page.
SUPPORTS FOR WELL-BEING
Health and wellness play a critical role in academic success and UM offers a wide range of services to support your well-being. Some of the resources available to students are noted below.
University Health Service (UHS) has clinics on both the Fort Garry and Bannatyne campuses. UHS offers a full range of medical supports and services and both campuses are open for virtual and in person appointments. UHS is also offering both Moderna and Pfizer to the general public by appointment only by calling 204-474-8411, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
The Pharmacy in UMSU University Centre offers health care products, prescription medication and personal protective equipment.
The Student Counselling Centre (SCC) provides workshops, groups and individual counselling to support UM students dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship problems and more. Check their website to see what workshops and groups are being offered and to receive help with problems such as attention and concentration. Initial intake appointments will be available in-person for the fall of 2021; all other services will remain virtual until health guidelines allow other in-person services to resume.
The Health and Wellness Office is available to all UM students and provides information and support for health and well-being. Check out Healthy U – a group of student volunteers who support UM students with their health and wellness.
The Sexual Violence Resource Centre (SVRC) is open for services by phone and email. UM students, staff and community members who are seeking information on sexual violence, or who are seeking support regarding an experience of sexual violence are encouraged to contact SVRC staff.
Spiritual Care offers one-on-one supports, assisting students of all beliefs and world-views when challenged by grief and a loss of purpose, hope, connection and authenticity. It seeks to resource and connect students with faith communities both off and on campus. It also offers a variety of programming related to spiritual wellness and cultural humility through inter-faith engagement.
Student Accessibility Services is available to provide supports for students with disabilities and to encourage academic success. If you require academic accommodations or accessibility supports, they are available to help.
Student Services at Bannatyne Campus is a service hub for students and residents in the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences. Staff provide supports and referrals for personal and academic success.
Feeling secure financially is important too – the Financial Aid and Awards office can help you make the most of the financial resources, scholarships and more available to you.
It is important for your mental wellbeing to stay active and keep moving. UM students have access to the available sport and recreation facilities at both campuses through the Sport and Rec fee. Currently, the Active Living Centre at the Fort Garry campus and the Joe Doupe Recreation Centre at the Bannatyne campus are open. Please visit the Recreation Services website for details about how to book workout appointments, and other important information including proof of COVID-19 vaccination as per public health restrictions.
If you’re not ready to work out in person or don’t have access to the facilities, Recreation Services also offers online options, resources and great workouts you can do at home through their Virtual Health and Fitness page.
ACADEMIC RESOURCES
There are a number of academic supports available, to help you do your absolute best in your courses. If you are learning remotely, knowing how to thrive in the online learning environment is key to your success. It’s important to keep Academic Integrity top of mind, too.
Academic advisors are available to help you clarify your academic goals and then make decisions to reach them. Advisors can help you answer questions about requirements, develop a plan, assess progress and make changes, weighing options and identifying next steps.
The Academic Learning Centre is available to all students, and can help you improve your skills and learn concrete strategies to become an even better student. They offer workshops, tutoring and appointments to discuss options. Follow along with the self-directed resources to improve your skills in writing and study skills. And if you’re tired of studying alone, join in the Virtual Study Hall happening three evenings a week this Fall Term to help you connect with your peers.
Beginning September 7, Elizabeth Dafoe, Sciences and Technology, and Neil John Maclean Health Sciences Libraries are open for individual student study space. Archives is open by appointment, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Access the collections and other library services online. Visit the Libraries’ COVID-19 updates often for current library hours and service details throughout the Fall Term.
STAYING CONNECTED
Even if you are learning remotely, you still can get involved at the UM, bolster your Co-Curricular Record, and build your resumé. Visit Career Connect to find the database of CCR activities or to check out work-study positions.
Student Life connects students with opportunities to develop leadership skills, and gain invaluable experience while giving back to the campus community. For example, there are a number of peer mentor programs available at UM, for both aspiring mentors and those who would like to connect with a mentor. From volunteer opportunities, to work-study, active involvement in student clubs and campus organizations, there are countless opportunities to become engaged and build career-related skills.
The Indigenous Student Centre (ISC) offers holistic and culturally grounded resources and programming for Indigenous students at UM. Students can book an appointment with an Indigenous Student Centre Elder-in-Residence by calling 204-474-8850 and can join the Elders for weekly virtual sharing circles and teachings. ISC advisors and program coordinators are also available for advising appointments. ISC offers programming like the Qualico Bridge to Success Program, Neechiwaken Indigenous Peer Mentor Program, Blankstein Momentum Program, and the Indigenous Circle of Empowerment. Students and staff can attend events like the biweekly Fireside Chats with Elders and Knowledge Keepers. ISC also offers Full Moon Ceremony for women and a men’s group on Thursday evenings (Zongiigabowen). Métis programming takes place on an ongoing basis with events like Metis Awareness Mondays. All events (when available), including sharing circles, can be found here: https://eventscalendar.umanitoba.ca/site/indigenous
Community Engaged Learning programming teaches students about social justice, allows them to volunteer for change and relate classroom learning to community work. A number of programs are still operating, including Community Leadership Development and Poverty Awareness.
Career Services encourages all students to actively think about their career journey, whether you are just starting your degree, in the middle of your degree or graduating. There are a number of services and resources you can access to support you in career planning and job search. This includes assisting you in learning more about occupations, employment sectors and in finding opportunities in your field of interest such as summer/part-time work, experiential learning opportunities, coop and career/job fairs. Use Career Connect to learn more about workshops, employer sessions and get access to local, regional, national and international job postings.
The International Centre is offering a number of opportunities for international students to get connected and make the most of your time at the UM. Students can take part in individual sessions with an International student advisor, or group options like Culture and Connection or the weekly support chats. Students can take part in Welcome Mentors, Intercultural Leaders, or the Language Exchange program as well.
Check out the many student communities and clubs. Find out how to follow on social media, attend virtual events, and become a member.