Message from Laurie Schnarr, Vice-Provost (Students) – Nov 17
Welcome back, Bisons!
I hope you enjoyed a restful reading week. As you return to your studies, I thought I would feature some upcoming events, services, and reminders to help you explore campus life, get connected with supports, and end the Fall term strong.
November has many exciting events taking place at the UM campuses.
International Education Week is happening this week November 17-21 and features many events to celebrate global learning and connection. The event kick-off is today at the Fireside Lounge, UMSU University Centre 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Drop in any time throughout the day, and participate in the many activities being offered all week long! See the International Education Week website for more information.
Check out the many career workshops and special events during Career Month, including Arts Career Round Table on November 19 and Employer Advice Café on November 25. Visit the Career Month website for more information and links for registration.
Entrepreneurship and Innovative Thinking Month is taking place with many events, including the Indigenous Winter Market on November 20. Visit the Entrepreneurship and Innovative Thinking Month website for more information.
Opening today is a Child Feeding Room in 532 UMSU University Centre. This space, brought to you by Student Affairs, provides a quiet and private environment with comfortable seating, a sink area, electrical outlets, and a change table. Caregivers can access the space by signing out the key from the International Centre, 541 UMSU University Centre.
This is a busy time of year, and you are balancing many priorities, including course requirements and life commitments. Here are some supports to check out to help you achieve your academic goals while navigating life’s demands:
The Academic Learning Centre offers one-to-one tutoring, workshops, Supplemental Instruction and other resources that will help expand your writing, learning, and study skills.
Charge Ahead provides workshops and individual appointments with peer mentors who understand what you’re going through. Drop in to 107 Tier to learn practical skills and connect with other students.
One-to-one appointments with Librarians across a wide variety of subject areas, a live chat feature, and online resources are available through UM Libraries.
Connect with Student Support services and off-campus resources to give your health and wellness a boost.
Get active through the facilities and programs offered by UM Recreation Services.
Important reminders
The deadline to Voluntarily Withdraw (VW) from Fall Term courses is tomorrow, November 18. If you are thinking about a VW, speak to an academic advisor in your home faculty or the First Year Centre to help you make the best decision.
I encourage all students to download the UM Safe App for instant access to campus safety resources, and to receive alerts from the University’s Security Services. It is an invaluable resource for all members of the UM community.
Stop by my office hours with Tina Chen, Vice-Provost (Equity) on November 24 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and December 8 11:00am-12:00pm at Degrees. These office hours provide students with the opportunity to connect informally, to share your ideas or concerns, and to engage in conversation about issues that are meaningful to you. We hope to see you there.
Check your inbox Tuesday for the Student Weekly, follow @umstudent on Instagram and TikTok, and check out UM Today.
Take care over the next few weeks, and I look forward to reconnecting before we head into the December exam series.
My best,
… Laurie