School is back in session and Vancouver Island University is ready for new and returning students from across Canada and around the world.
The university’s Nanaimo, Cowichan and Powell River campuses welcome more than 20,000 undergraduate and graduate students for the fall semester which starts Sept. 4.
More than 700 of those students, new to VIU, will attend “Rock the VIU”, a day of orientation at the Nanaimo campus Thursday (Aug. 30).
“Rock the VIU is a fun introduction to university life for first-year students,” says Tina McComb, interim director of communications and public relations. “A large committee of students, staff and faculty have planned an exciting day of activities for new students that includes an ‘Amazing Adventure’ campus tour, barbecue and plenty of entertainment.”
Individual faculties host afternoon ‘block parties’ for students enrolled in their specific areas. It’s a chance for new students to meet classmates, faculty and staff, and learn about what each faculty has to offer.”
Staff representatives from student services, the bookstore, library and information technology services, student residence, parking and security, health and safety and international study abroad will be on hand to answer questions.
Parents are invited to join students at a lunchtime barbecue, after which they can choose between a campus tour or attending a session to chat with students and parents about post-secondary experiences.
“A family’s experience is much different than that of a student’s. It’s an experience with its own questions, concerns and anticipations,” said McComb. “VIU wants to ensure that parents/guardians have the information needed to support their student in making important academic and life choices during their first year in university and beyond.
“University is a time when students grow both intellectually and emotionally. They still need support, love, and guidance. Our goal is to help parents understand what students may experience as they transition into their university careers and what services are available to assist them.”
For more information about student orientation or the parent session, please go to www.viu.ca/orientation.