Learning the (new) basics
Studying in a new country can be both exciting and overwhelming. While students are adjusting to a new academic environment they have to adjust to a new culture, new customers, new foods, a different climate, and to being away from family and friends.
To help international students with their transition to Canada, the International Centre for Students offers orientation programs at the beginning of each term.
Orientation for international students begins on Wednesday, September 2 when new students get the chance to meet ICS staff and learn about programs and services available at the U of M. Experienced students share some of their best tips for surviving as a new student in a strange land.
On Thursday, September 3, new students can head out of town on the Intercultural Retreat held at Camp Cedarwood. This immersion experience creates a community of friends for international students and presents some of the most beautiful nature that Manitoba has to offer. The day of fun includes rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, swimming and sports all in a beautiful rural setting.
Kayaking at the intercultural retreat
Back on campus ICS hosts an education session designed to teach students one of the most integral lessons of university life: taking the bus. Winnipeg’s transit system is an affordable and convenient transportation option, but it can be confusing to first time users. The Taking the Bus in Winnipeg workshop takes place on Friday, September 4 and teaches students about fares and payment procedures, route planning, how to get on and off the bus, signaling your stop and bus etiquette. The workshop includes a private transit bust tour to help each student practice what he or she has learned while seeing parts of the city.
A week later students are provided the opportunity to learn about money management. The Banking, Budgeting, and Taxes in Canada workshop takes place on Friday, September 11 teaches new students about banking in Canada (including how to set up a bank account), using credit cards wisely, establishing a personal budget and how to effectively manage you money.
The ICS provides all these workshops and many other supports for newcomers to the U of M. Mentorship programs and orientation sessions help new students become comfortable in Canada so that they can better focus on their studies. Visit the International Centre for Students website to learn about all the programs and services provided.