Message from Laurie Schnarr, Vice-Provost (Students) – Dec 8
Well, Bisons, the Fall Term has come to an end and the final exam period starts tomorrow for most faculties. You’re almost at the finish line! This message highlights supports and resources to help you navigate the next two weeks with confidence. You’ve got this!
24/7 study space
Personal circumstances may necessitate studying during non-traditional hours. A dedicated quiet space with on-site staff is available December 8 at 8:00 p.m. to December 19 at 8:00 a.m. in the St. John’s College Library, 3rd floor, St. John’s College. Available on a first come, first served basis, UM student ID must be presented to gain entry to the space outside regular hours (weekdays from 8 p.m. – 8 a.m. and all day on weekends). See UM Today for further details and conditions for using this space.
Study spaces
If you are in need of study space, UM Libraries are open. Find hours, study space options, and information about their satellite locations on their website.
Academic supports
Writing tutors at the Academic Learning Centre (ALC) continue to offer one-on-one appointments throughout the exam period and writing support and specialized services for graduate students. Academic Advisors remain available to you until the university closes on December 23, 2025 for the winter holiday break.
Well-being
If you are in need of some support, reach out and explore the resources available to you. The Student Wellness Centre, Healthy U and the Student Counselling Centre offer services, spaces, and opportunity to talk through challenging times. Visit their websites to learn more about their services and availability during the exam period.
Exam deferrals are a privilege
Although rare, there may be extenuating circumstances that impact your ability to write your final exam as scheduled. Be sure to review valid and non-valid reasons for deferred exams and where to get support.
Fuel your study sessions
UM Campus Services will continue to operate. Be sure to check the hours of operation for individual food outlets to avoid disappointment, especially on weekends.
Student Affairs exam outreach
Members of the Student Affairs team are offering free coffee and treats throughout the exam period:
- Share your exam-season goals with the Connection Desk (first floor UMSU University Centre) today starting at 11:30 a.m. Grab free doughnuts as a pick-me-up before exams. Do-nut stress, you’ve got this!
- The International Centre is hosting Doughnuts and Coffee in the T. K. Lau Global Lounge 541 UMSU Centre December 9 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Crunch time: Staff from the Student Wellness Centre will be visiting study spots on campus to fuel students with snacks on Tuesday, December 9 11:30am-1:30pm. Make sure to say hi and grab some brain food!
- Look for Spiritual Care and Multi-Faith Services in the tunnel network between the University Centre and Asper and study carrel areas the evenings of Wednesday, December 10 and Wednesday, December 17 between 7:00 and 9:00 p.m. They’ll be handing out free coffee and treats in collaboration with UMSU.
- Swing by the Fletcher Argue hallway between 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM on Thursday, December 11, say hi to Charge Ahead mentors, and grab a sweet treat for a quick pick-me-up!
Move your body
Through the Sport and Rec fee, students have access to the university’s sport and recreation facilities and group fitness classes at both Fort Garry and Bannatyne campus locations. Visit the UM Recreation Services website for more information and to find hours of operation.
Safety
Download the UM Safe App, which gives you direct access to safety tools, services and resources, such as the Work Alone feature while studying on campus.
Remember to check the weather forecast before travelling to campus and give yourself plenty of time to make your commute.
I wish you all the best during the final exam period. I’ll check in with you again before we close for the holiday break.
Take good care.
…Laurie