International Student Welcome Guide 2020/2021 Fall Edition

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT

WELCOME GUIDE 2020-2021 Fall Edition Your tailored guide to living and studying in Canada as a new international student

Presented by The University of Alberta International Students’ Association (UAISA)

Contents *Click on underlined words/phrases to go to the website mentioned.

Introduction

Residence & Housing

1.1

President’s Note

3.1

1.2

Univeristy of Alberta International Students’ Association (UAISA)

3.2 Off-Campus Housing

1.3

University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU)

1.4

Graduate Students’ Association (GSA)

1.5

North and South Campus

1.6 Augustana Campus and

Campus St Jean Documentation after arrival 2.1

Alberta Health Care

2.2

Alberta Health Card

2.3 Social Insurance Number 2.4

Bank Accounts and ONECard

2.5

Cellular connection & Internet

On-Campus Housing

Transportation 4.1

U-Pass

4.2 Public Transportation 4.3 Driving License Essential Items 5.1 Clothing 5.2 Groceries 5.3 Campus Food Bank

Resources

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6.1

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Academic Resources

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8.4 UofA 6 Bookstore Ecte verum volores

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How to find Jobs

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Student Groups and Recreation 3

10.2 Campus and Community Recreation 10.3 Other Regional Groups

INTRODUCTION | 4

Welcome to the Univesity of Alberta

A Message from Bill Flanagan President and Vice-Chancellor , University of Alberta Welcome to the University of Alberta!

Your university journey is one where you will develop critical and creative skills, and will prepare you for success in an ever-changing world, something that has never been more important than today. If you are joining the UofA community for the first time in September, welcome. Like you, I have also just started my own journey at this remarkable university. I am thrilled to be back in my home province and to be part of such a renowned institution.

Even though it is a challenging time of transition for you, the U of A, and the world, you are joining a global community of excellence, made up of a resilient community of diverse and talented scholars. I encourage you to ask questions, seek out mentorship, and connect with people, groups, and projects that are of interest to you. I have no doubt that you will find the support and community you need to make the U of A your new home.

INTRODUCTION | 5

Treaty 6 Acknowledgement

“The University of Alberta respectfully acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, a traditional gathering place for diverse Indigenous peoples including the Cree, Blackfoot, Metis, Nakota Sioux, Iroquois, Dene, Ojibway/ Saulteaux/ Anishinaabe, Inuit, and many others whose histories, languages, and cultures continue to influence our vibrant community.�

Edmonton has the second-largest Aboriginal population of any city in Canada and we therefore want you to be knowledgeable of the history behind this territory.

University of Alberta International Students’ Association| 6

A message from UAISA President Chanpreet Singh

Congratulations on behalf of the ISA for your acceptance to the University of Alberta.

The ISA is extremely delighted and enthusiastic to welcome you all on our lovely campus situated in the heart of Edmonton.You must be excited for restriction to ease and arrive in Canada, so are we, to welcome you all in person.

Coming to Canada, gives us all a chance to start a new life and do things that we’ve always dreamt of. It’s your time to begin an exciting chapter of your life and start living a new life with amazing people. Make the best out of your university life and never fear taking any risks and missing opportunities that you might regret later.Get out of your comfort zone (cuz that’s where the magic begins!) and meet with new people from all vibrant backgrounds in order to truly have a global educational experience by studying at the UofA. Leaving family and friends is one of the most difficult times of anyone’s life but I can assure you that one day you will look back and be proud that you made the right decision by coming to the UofA as the UAlberta community will become your new family with a ton of friends. Your ISA is always there to support you and stand by you to represent your interests and make sure that you all have a pleasant university experience at the UofA. Reach out to us any time and let us know what you want your ISA or university to do for you.

ISA hopes that you have an amazing learning experience as a UAlberta student!

University of Alberta International Students’ Association| 7

Meet our Executives

Sezvo M’pfunya Vice President Communications

Gurbani Baweja Vice President External

Safwan Vice President Student Life

William Bbossa Vice President Finance

Doga Canturk Vice President External

Ricardo Andrade Rossi Vice President Academic

The University of Alberta International Students’ Association (UAISA, referred as ISA) is the largest student advocacy body for international students at the University of Alberta. The ISA works towards representing and safeguarding the unified voice of all international students at the UofA by raising their concerns and issues to various external parties within and outside of the university.

Student Representative Associations | 8

Who is UASU The University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU) is the official advocacy body for all undergraduate students at the University of Alberta. The UASU represents undergraduate students’ voices within the university and all levels of the government. It also provides a variety of services (such as InfoLink and the Peer Support Centre) and runs numerous businesses (such as the SUBprint) operating on a $10 million+ budget. All undergraduate students at the University of Alberta are members of the UASU.

Student Representative Associations | 9

A message from UASU President, Joel Agarwal On behalf of the University of Alberta Students’ Union (the UASU), I’d like to welcome you to the University of Alberta! The UASU is the official representative body for all undergraduates on campus: we provide advocacy to the University and all levels of government, execute engaging programming, and ensure we operate a wide range of student services designed to meet the needs of all of our members.

I remember being dropped off at Lister in my first year, eager and nervous - for being away from family for the first time is often a time of challenge and growth. Over the next few years, I had the amazing opportunity to engage with many facets of the campus experience - from living at Lister and St. Joseph’s College, to playing trombone with the UofA Concert Band, volunteering across campus, and learning great things through undergraduate research. UAlberta became a home for me, where I learnt from my peers, faculty, staff, and through the invaluable experiential learning opportunities available both in and out of the classroom. Nevertheless, as a Science student, I never thought I would take an interest in student governance.

Now, it can be a daunting experience being in a new university environment, maybe a new city or new country. The classrooms are larger, you may not share a lunch break with your friends, and you are suddenly given much more freedom and responsibility. The Students’ Union offers a place that feels like home on a campus that spreads over 30 blocks, with over 32,000 undergraduate students, with thousands of classrooms and dozens of buildings. Whether you need to access our Exam Bank, the Tutor Registry, the Peer Support Centre, the Landing, emergency funding, the Campus Food Bank, or any of the other services we offer (which can all be found at uasu.ca), know that the UASU will always have their back. We are the voice of students, ensuring that while they are attending a top Canadian University pursuing academic excellence, their needs are being met and advocated for. This year, COVID-19 has brought many challenges. In these uncertain and unprecedented times, the University of Alberta Students’ Union exists not only as a predictable and dependable force, but one that is flexible to the ever-changing winds we are all facing together. The UASU has and always will be at the forefront, ensuring student leadership reflects the student body, and that our values keep students at the core of what we do.

I am honoured to serve as the 2020/2021 University of Alberta Students’ Union President, and I warmly welcome you to the University of Alberta!

On-Campus Student Groups | 10

Graduate Students’ Association The Graduate Students’ Association (GSA) represents all graduate students at the University of Alberta by advocating for them to the University as well as the Government of Alberta. The GSA also acts as a labour union for graduate students holding appointments as Teaching Assistants, Research Assistants, and Graduate Research Assistant Fellowships. They negotiate a collective agreement for these academically employed graduate students and advise them about their employment rights.

On-Campus Student Groupws | 11

Meet the team

Marc Waddingham President

Sachiketha Reddy Vice President Academic

Umesh Nimmathi Vice President Labor

Anas Fassih Vice President External

Sridhar Parasharamatham Vice President Student Services

Michael Huang Chief Returning Officer

Pranidhi Baddam Speaker

Marla Palakkamanil Senator

INTRODUCTION | 12 INTRODUCTION | 12

INTRODUCTION | 13

North Campus As indicated on the University of Alberta’s website , the University of Alberta’s North Campus lies on Treaty 6 lands and runs from 116 Street on the west to 110 Street on the east and from the North Saskatchewan River to University Avenue.

The campus is a lively center where students study, attend classes and get acquainted with resources from several administrative departments. Most students use this campus to carry out their academic and research work throughout the year. Not only will you appreciate the diversity of students from different faculties but you will admire the beautiful buildings that even date from a hundred years ago.

South Campus As indicated on the University of Alberta’s website , the University of Alberta’s South Campus serves as the best place for the agriculture research carried out by the University’s students. This includes research pertaining to animal metabolism, crops, dairy, poultry and more. In addition to this the campus has two world-class athletic facilities, Foote Field and the Saville Community Sports Centre which you can visit during campus held events. It is just one train ride away.

If you have a love for sports then come and show it here !

Augustana Campus As indicated on the University of Alberta’s website , Augustana Campus is a small residence-based liberal arts and sciences institution located in the Camrose area. It has over 1000 students that live on campus and provides students with a great opportunity to become lifelong learners.

The structured liberal arts education equips students with the necessary skills to become innovative thinkers in our society.

International students are encouraged to embrace the Canadian culture but to also bring their unique background experience as well.

The campus has many opportunities for you to get involved including clubs and sports that you might be interested in.

INTRODUCTION | 15

Campus Saint-Jean As indicated on the University of Alberta’s website , Campus SaintJean is the french- speaking campus of the University. It is a small campus that consists of students who are devoted to pursuing their postsecondary degrees in French. It provides a unique alternative to your education as it combines your academics with the cultural aspects of the French Language. Campus Saint-Jean has two distinct branches: Faculté Saint-Jean with its undergraduate and graduate programs and the Center collegial de l’Alberta. It was founded in 1908 and affiliated with the University of Alberta in 1963. The campus is home to over 80 research projects in 14 areas of expertise.

Do not hesitate to visit the campus at any time to meet the unique community with the university located at 84 Avenue and Rue Marie-Anne Gaboury.

Documentation after arrival | 16

Alberta Health Care

1

“The last thing you want to worry about is having no health care especially in a new country. Everytime I got sick all I had to do was to go to the clinic and show them my Alberta Health Care number. A great health care coverage for students.�

- Swati Where

There are many authorized registry agents around Alberta where you can apply for your Alberta Health Card. Service Alberta provides a list of authorized registry agents in Alberta.

When you apply for the health card at a registry agent, bring the following documents: 1) Valid Passport/travel document with Canadian visa 2) Study permit 3) Proof of residence (A letter from the U of A residences or your landlord certifying that you live at a specified address satisfies the requirement) You can also apply for the Alberta Health Card via mail. For more details visist Service Alberta on the application process.

The website outlines in greater details what the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan covers.

Documentation after arrival | 17

2

Alberta ID Card

3

Social Insurance

“Kill two birds with one stone and make sure to apply for the Alberta ID Card when you apply for Alberta Health Care. I made the mistake of not doing this and had to return and do the same process again.”

- Raiya

Your social insurance number (SIN) is a 9 digit number that is necessary for you to work in Canada and it will give you access to government programs and benefits. Your SIN will also be used for tax purposes.

Where

You can apply for your SIN at any Service Canada office and you will need to bring the following documents: -Study Permit (it must have the condition allowing you to work in Canada) -Valid Passport Look at the International Student Services (ISS) website for more depth information.

“If you want to work then make sure to get a Social Insurance Number but do not give it to anyone other than your employer once your employment is finalised.”

- Raiya

Documentation after arrival | 18

Bank Accounts There are many different options available in Alberta.

Moreover, a Canadian bank account is essential and it will make your life easier when it comes to paying your tuition, residence fees, bills, receiving payment from your employer, etc. The following are major banks in Canada and Alberta.

Alberta Trust Bank (ATB)

Royal Bank of Canada (RBC)

Scotiabank

Bank of Montreal (BMO)

Toronto-Dominion (TD) Bank

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)

OneCard

Your ONEcard is your official student identification document and it will serve several purposes such as being a library card and access card. The ONEcard also gives you access to different services/ goods like printing, laundry, meal plan, and transit (if you have a UPass).Learn more about the ONEcard on thie ONecard website.

“Carry your One Card like it is your house key.

Do not lose it and keep it safe. It so convinient to have and I used it for so many things during the semester ! �

- Mahek

Documentation after arrival | 19

Phones and Internet If you plan on living in University residences, then the University wifi known as UWS will provide you with free internet access all over campus including residences. In selected University residences, you can also opt to purchase your own personal wifi access with different internet providers in Alberta.

Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (Government of Canada)provides a comprehensive list of internet service.

You may also want to acquire your own mobile telephone service for your communication and mobile data needs. The following are major telephone service providers in Canada: - Rogers Communications - Bell Canada - Telus Communications - Fido Solutions - Virgin Mobile - Koodo Mobile - Chatr Mobile - Lucky Mobile - Public Mobile

Residence and Housing | 20

Housing

on campus

There are several residences to choose from if you decide to live on campus and it is important to review each of them on on the University of Alberta Residence Services website before you make a choice. We have only highlighted a few but there are more.

Lister Centre

Lister residence is the traditional first year dormitory with 5 residence buildings which are Kelsey Hall, Henday Hall (close 2020-2021), Mackenzie Hall (close 2019-2020), Schaffer, and Chalifoux. Students have the options of having shared rooms or single rooms.

HUB Mall

HUB is a residence located inside the campus shopping mall.

Students ranging from first years to grad students live in this mall. Residents can walk indoors in 5 minutes or less and have access to classes, coffee shops, restaurants and transit. There are trained Resident Assistant staff (RAs) for after hours on-call duties and individual resident support. Options for furnished or unfurnished rooms are available.

Accommodation for self isolation

Students required to self isolate have access to a single room with private washroom, meal delivery, daily check ins, health and community health services. Self isolation supports have been available in residence throughout the pandemic response and will continue to be offered to incoming students.

Aspen and Maple House

Upper year undergraduate students live here. The rooms come fully furnished and students have the option of a voluntary meal plan.

Newton Place

It is a high rise apartment with easy access to classes, grocery stores and coffee shops. It is available for third year undergraduate students and above as well as student couples or students who parent. The rooms come unfurnished.

Graduate Residence

Four buildings namely Rockcress, Stonecrop, Juniper and Speedwell make up Graduate Residence. All buildings come fully furnished. There is also an onsite faculty member for academic support and thesis defense preparation sessions. Resident Assistant staff (RAs) trained for after hours on-call duties and individual resident support.

“My first year in residence was amazing and it was my home away from home.�

- Gurbani Residence and Housing| 21

Residence and Housing | 22

Augustana Campus Housing First Year Complex

First year students are guaranteed a place in the First Year Dorms. There are upper year student staff members as well as professional staff members to support you during your year there.

The Ravine Complex

The Ravine Complex consists of six residence buildings and is located on the East side of the campus. Each building has a social lounge, study lounge and kitchen. Double rooms and single rooms are available.

Theme Community House

This residence is open to any group of 5 - 7 students entering their second year of studies or higher, with a proposed learning objective. You get to choose who you want to live with, as well as the option for a full meal plan or punch card for individual meals.

Residence and Housing| 23

Off-Campus There are online resources for off campus housing: 1) Renting Spaces 2) Rentals.ca 3) Search4studenthousing.com 4) Kijiji.ca The International Student Services(ISS) outlines more details. It is important to know your rights as a renter: Tenants and Landlords, Tips when looking for off campus housing: - If possible, arrive 2 weeks to a month before classes start to arrange off campus housing.

- Visit the accommodation in person, if you are not able to, ask the landlord for detailed photos of the accommodation or have a video call tour.

- Meet or ask about roommates.

- Read rental agreement details carefully. Does rent include utilities? Are there laundry facilities? How close is the location to public transportation?

- You are not required to disclose your Social Insurance Number (SIN) to your landlord or roommates.

- Ask about deposit.

Transportation | 24

Transport Transit pass(U-pass) A U-Pass is a valid sticker affixed to your student ONEcard. U-pass is an initiative that delivers affordable and sustainable transit to the students of the University of Alberta. The U-Pass is much lower than the cost of purchasing monthly passes for the same period of time because costs are spread over a large participant base.

The U-Pass program is available for all students, graduate and undergraduate, registered in at least one for-credit course at the University of Alberta Edmonton Campuses. *Please note that U-Pass is currently suspended and the program and its cost are approved by students in a referendum vote.

“Trying to figure out the transit system will be confusing but after a few bus rides it will be easy.

Make sure to go with a friend the first time.�

- Nemwi

Transportation | 25

Public Transportation Most destinations in Edmonton are accessible by bus and the Light Rail Transit (LRT) operated by the Edmonton Transit System (ETS). The ETS Trip Planner can help you find a route to your destination.

LRT Trains arrive once every 5 - 15 minutes depending on the time of the day. The Capital line runs between Century Park and Clareview while the Metro line runs between Century Park and NAIT. Most bus routes run every 15 - 30 minutes, depending on the time and season. Route 4 runs East-West from Lewis Estates through University Station to Bonnie Doon and Capilano. Route 9 runs North-South from Southgate Mall through Downtown to Northgate and Eaux Claires. Check the ETS website for route changes. You can also text your bus stop number to 31100 to see when the next bus is arriving.

Driving Licencse If you want to obtain an Alberta Driver’s License, you will need to pass a knowledge test and a road test. In some cases, you may be able to exchange your out-of-country driver’s license for an Alberta driver’s license. You will need an Alberta Driver’s License to be qualified for auto-insurance if you want to purchase a vehicle. Please visit the ISS website for more details.

Essential Items| 26

Clothing Fall and Winter Fall takes place from early September with more rainy and windy weather, up until mid November, where some hoodies and light jackets come in handy. For seasonal clothing, it is worth checking out Southgate Mall, which is the closest to the campus and requires taking a train from University Station to Southgate(towards Century Park). Also, Edmonton is a home for one of North America’s largest indoor malls - West Edmonton Mall, with over 800 stores, largest indoor waterpark and other attractions.

The most famous and long lasting season is winter. It can last anywhere from early November until late March, with a potential of getting as low as -40°C. Wearing layers of clothing is a crucial part to make it through avoiding frostbite and hypothermia.

Thermal wear is very useful to keep your body dry and warm, a couple of woollen sweaters, pants and socks, proper winter shoes, mittens/gloves, hats/toques and a scarf. Shopping for winter gear can start as early as mid fall, but you can catch Black Friday deals on Friday, November 27th.

Transportation | 26

Essential Items| 27

*For more tips on clothing visit the ISS website.

Stores As for stores, more budget friendly would be: Ardene, Urban Planet and Walmart. There are basic stores with good deals and affordable prices, such as, H&M, Zara and Hollister. As for more on a higher pricing range, there is Aritzia, Abercrombie & Fitch and Levi’s. For winter parkas, it is important to choose better quality ones from Canada Goose, The North Face, Moose Knuckles and Columbia.

1) Southgate Mall - closest to campus, 17 min train ride away, 165 stores 2) Winners - cheaper retail for a variety of brands, located in WEM, Edmonton City Centre.

3) South Common - outlet stores in the south of Edmonton.

“ Get your winter coats and boots as soon as you arrive. The cold comes sooner than you think.”

- Akanksha Transportation | 27

Essential Items| 28

Groceries Coming from a different culture, it is hard to adjust for small details in your new environment. Grocery shopping can be both relaxing and stressful, especially at the cashier counter. As a more affordable option, there is NoFrills, it is located on Whyte Ave and easily accessible, you can either walk there from campus or take bus no.4 to Capilano. There is also Safeway and Shoppers which are more common and have a bit more expensive choices.

Some students would prefer ordering groceries through InstaCart. It has a variety of stores present on its website, such as Walmart, Superstore, Costco, etc. Save on Foods has its delivery option as well. As a wholesale place: Walmart, Superstore and Costco are more convenient, but it is hard to get there without a car. There is also Circle K around the campus area and anywhere in the city, it is pricey but always located conveniently, it has everything in case of emergencies or when you are feeling lazy to go grocery shopping.

If you are missing the comforts of home then here are a few places to check out.

1) T&T Supermarket and H-Mart offers a big variety of eastern Asians snacks and products.

2) Mama Afro has essential hair products and braids.

3) European market & produce has a selection of eastern European products.

4) India Bazaar offers a variety of Indian spices and grocery items.

Essential Items | 29

Tip Bring spices and non-perishables from home (if they are allowed)

Campus Food Bank Campus Food Bank is located in the SUB building and offers food hampers free of cost to individuals affiliated with the UofA (students, staff, or alumni within 5 year of graduation). Proof of identification and ONEcard is required upon registration. You can request food hamper up to a maximum of once every two weeks.

“It is difficult to be an international student, we feel homesick and anything that reminds us home is very precious.�

-Madina

Resources | 30

Mental Health Mental Health is such an integral part of your University experience and it is important to know resources to help you when you find yourself stuggling.

Here are some ways in which the community supports your mental well-being.

ACCESS Open Minds ACCESS Outreach Team Community Social Work Team Counselling & Clinical Services Edmonton Distress Line (24-7) First People’s House International Student Services Helping Individuals At Risk Peer Support Centre Sexual Assault Centre University Health Centre #UAlbertaCares Have a look at the quick resource guide for off-campus and telephone community supports available 24/7.

International Student Services | 31

International Student Center (ISC) “The staff at ISC helped me with all the questions I had including things about my work permit and study permit.

They are very patient and welcoming to all students.�

- Shenin The International Services Centre (ISC) is home to International Student Services, Education Abroad, Global Education and the Visiting Student programs. International Student Services provides international students with the resources to help them adjust to life at UAlberta and Canada.

International Student Services (ISS) provides services, events, and programming to help you accomplish your academic and personal goals.

If you have any queries/questions on a variety of issues: study permits and visas, financial support, health care and more, contact the ISS.They also offer support and strategies for coping with homesickness, adjusting to a new culture, building a community of friends, and relating to others.

The International Services Centre continues to offer advising through: 1) online platforms 2) Email their advisors: advising@ualberta.ca 3) Call them: (780) 492-2692

Working as an International Student | 32

How to find jobs

As an International student you might be researching about your job opportunities whether it might be for personal savings, paying tuition or just to gain knowledge in your field of study, here are some ways you can find a relevant job openings and volunteering opportunities:

On-Campus: There are 4 main ways you can work on campus: 1) Paid positions, 2) Internships, 3) Co-op placement, 4) Volunteering opportunities.

Paid positions: 1) Working at the Student Union: Use this link tosee all current job offerings : UASU Jobs 2) You will find posting for internships, part-time, summer positions at Career Centre.

3) A prime way to find information directly from various company representatives is the Career Fair.

Working as an International Student | 33

“Sometimes you will have to apply to 20 places before you get an answer.

Don’t be discouraged.”

- Ricardo Internships: An internship is a temporary job experience that is given to students to gain experience. You can check if you are eligible for the opportunity by clicking here.

Co-op placement: A co-op is a hands-on experience in addition to traditional classroom education.

1) If you are an engineering student, click here to explore your co-op opportunities.

2) If you are a science student, you can explore your co-op opportunities on SciWorks. *For more information vist the ISS website.

Working as an International Student | 34

“In my first year I didn’t know where to volunteer because there were so many options. I just had to find what was best for me and the work I have done has been so great !”

- Shenin

Volunteering Opportunities

There are many volunteering opportunities on campus. Click on the options to learn more about them: 1) International Students’ Association volunteering 2) Peer Support Centre 3) Safewalk 4) Campus Food Bank 5) Sustain SU 6) ISS volunteering opportunities

Working as an International Student | 35

Off - Campus Jobs If you are planning to accept a job offer off campus you should always refer to the Canadian Government website.

And here is a list of places you can volunteer off campus: 1) United Planet 2) UN Volunteers online 3) Volunteer connect Check out the ISA Facebook page for more opportunities off campus !

Academic Resources | 36

Libraries on campus The University of Alberta is equipped with the tools to support your academic journey.

There are many libraries on campus that will provide you with the books you need for the majority of your classes.

These libraries are the best places for studying with your friends. You can find the study space that suits you best and you can be surrounded by the views of the campus.

Some of the biggest Libraries include Cameron Library (Sciences, Engineering, & Business Library) and Rutherford Library(Humanities & Social Sciences Library). There are also some located on Augustana Campus and Campus St. Jean.

The online library website will show you all the libraries that are open this semster including the hours of availability.

Academic Resources | 37

U of A Online Library Resources

The U of A has a comprehensive online library resource where you can find articles, ejournals and course materials that you can use as sources for your classwork. The website is user friendly and can provide you with citations for the documents you require.

If you are looking for a book in a particular library and want to know if it is available to borrow then you can do so here.

If you need help navigating your way through the online library then there is a chatbot available to help you. There are numerous tutorials and guides to assist you.

Tip If studying in a group is more of your preferred style then you can book a study space at one of the libraries.

“ The top floor of DICE has the most amazing views for studying on campus �

- Chanpreet

Academic Resources | 38

Academic Success Center The Academic Success Center (ASC) aims to help you be successful in your academic endeavours. ASC has diverse staff with the necessary skills to help students in any academic field. The Academics Success Centre hosts workshops to help students improve writing, study, and exam skills. If there is something you are struggling with or, even if you are doing fine in your academic program, ASC staff can help you.

“ If you need help with a Math or Statistic Course the go to the Decima Robinson Center. They offer the best help in understanding the material.�

- Chanpreet Decima Robinson Center The Decima Robinson center offers students one-onone drop-in help for Math and Statistics students. These drop-in sessions are run by graduate students who interact with you and help you understand the content of your classes.

During exam periods they also provide exam study sessions with questions from previous exams. They provide weekly review seminars to keep you on track with studying.

Tip Check out tips for taking courses online and making the most of your technology skills on the ASC website learning

Academic Resources| 39

UofA Bookstore This is where you can find your textbooks or eBooks for the semester. There is one Bookstore located on North Campus and another on Augustana Campus. The store is organised in a way that you can easily find all the textbooks and stationery that you will need for the semester.

The store has a variety of U of A merchandise that you can purchase for yourself or for family members. From water bottles to clothing to souvenirs; You can find a gift that suits you best. Visit bookstore.ualberta.ca for the most up to date information on the hours of operation.

On Campus Clubs and Recreation | 40

Financial Support

Office of the Registrar All student financial support services can be found at Student Connect, the Office of the Registrar’s student service centre.

The office is currently working remotely and are responding to all emails within 6 to 8 business days.

To find out how to contact Student Connect and speak with an advisor, check out Contact Student Connect.

1. Undergraduate Scholarships - scholarships and awards are available for current UAlberta students continuing in their degree program, as well as for students entering the first year of Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Law, or any after degree program.

2. Entrance Scholarships - general undergraduate scholarships, Athletic Scholarships, Country - specific scholarships, Sponsored student scholarships 3. Transfer Scholarships - There are a number of scholarships specifically for students transferring from another post-secondary institution.

4. Graduate Student Awards - Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research - Scholarships and Awards, Graduate Students’ Association Awards.

If you’re not sure what type of financial support you are seeking or are eligible for, contact Student Connect to speak to an advisor.

On Campus Clubs and Recreation | 41

Tip Always keep a check on deadlines! The sooner you apply, the better it is.

More Support Bursaries and Emergency Funding - The Office of the Registrar offers various forms of financial support designed to assist students experiencing financial shortfall for the current school year’s academic and basic living costs or a temporary unexpected financial emergency during the academic year.

Supplementary Bursary , Graduate Students’ Association (GSA) Emergency Bursary , Emergency Loan Check out which bursary you need and are eligible for before starting the application process. Visit the ISS website for more.

UASU Financial Aid Access Fund: The Students’ Union Access Fund provides assistance to undergraduate students who are either ineligible for student loans, have reached the maximum in their student loan amounts or simply do not have access to sufficient funding.

For more information: Access Fund.

Some other resources for financial aid: Scholarships Canada , Universities Canada , Government of Alberta Scholarships and Bursaries

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“It is never too late to start a new sport or activity. I had no idea how to dance but after hip hop classes I have become more confident. Plus you make more friends !�

- Akanksha

Bears Den BearsDen is a platform for students to get involved in extracurricular activities. It is used by many student groups to organize several diverse events. The access to BearsDen is available for every Ualberta student using your CCID.

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Campus and Community Recreation Every UAlberta student is charged an Athletics and Recreation fee as part of their tuition. This gives students access to campus gyms and recreation facilities in the Van Vliet Complex. Though most recreation facilities were closed over the summer due to the COVID-19 pandemic, several of them are currently re-opening (or already have) in reduced capacity. The Wilson Climbing Centre, Hanson Fitness and Lifestyle Centre, and the West Pool are now open for drop-in activities by scheduled appointment only.

Other facilities and gyms spaces are scheduled to be open in the fall.

Usual drop-in operations have been adjusted to comply with COVID-19 safety measures: • Drop-in use will require advance booking.

• ONEcards (or proof of facility fee payment) will be required.

• Book a drop-in time at one of our facilities.

For more information on ALL recreation facility re-opening plans and a complete list of the Campus Recreation Facilities available for BOOKED drop-ins visit here. Over the summer Campus & Community Recreation introduced live, online fitness, dance, and martial arts classes, and outdoor intramural sports leagues. These activities are expected to continue to be offered in the fall semester. Stay tuned for the announcement of new, live, online classes and in-person fall programming in the Fall 2020 Online Recreation Guide (here).Registration opens September 1, 2020.

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Other regional groups There are numerous regional student associations at the University of Alberta that work towards fostering a community of students from specific countries.

The names of these associations are as follows: New Chinese Generation Leadership Development Chinese Students and Scholars Association The University of Alberta Black Students’ Association Vietnamese International Student Union in Edmonton University of Alberta Japanese Students’ Association KGK: East Asian Studies Undergraduate Students’ Association University of Alberta Philippine Students’ Association Bangladeshi Student Association at University of Alberta Nepalese Scholars’ Association of University of Alberta Nigerian Students’ Association of University of Alberta Indian Students’ Association at University of Alberta Iranian Students’ Association of University of Alberta Eritrean and Ethiopian Students’ Association Latin American Students’ Association Malaysian Students’ Association Indonesian Student Association Pakistani Students’ Association Taiwanese Student Association Ukrainian Students’ Society Black Students’ Association

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Thank you for reading!

The information presented in this guide was compiled by the University of Alberta International Students’ Association. Please ensure to check the sources given as information changes all the time.

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