2020 First Year Information guide

2020 2020

FIRST YEAR INFORMATION

ANTIGONISH • NOVA SCOTIA

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

The First Year Information (FYI) Kit is a resource to help you get ready for your StFX X-Perience. It includes tips on what to do before you leave home, information on Welcome Day, and advice for transitioning into university life. Read the information closely and follow the links for more on the supports available to you as a StFX student!

X STARTS HERE

X Starts Here is an online program tailored to support your transition to StFX. The program contains a series of online modules that are available in June and can be completed at your own pace during the months leading to your arrival at StFX. Simply visit https://moodle.stfx.ca/ and enter your StFX email and password to access X Starts Here. Consider these modules your ‘how to’ for: • Course Registration and Academic Advising • Living Your Best Life @ X • Building Your Academic Skills • Managing Your Money Matters • Connecting Your Tech and IT devices • Going Global and Studying Abroad • Adjusting to University as an International Student

COVID-19 INFORMATION

We know you are probably wondering how COVID-19 may impact your time at StFX. Please know that we are committed to offering classes this September and that all conditional offers of acceptance remain valid. We are taking all steps and precautions necessary to ensure that you have an incredible learning, living, and social experience at StFX, and discover first-hand the sense of community that makes us so special. Don’t let COVID-19 disrupt your plans for an incredible university experience!

For more information, please visit our web portal for incoming students at StFX.ca/New-Student-Information.

1

On behalf of the StFX family, it is my honour to welcome you to our university! We are so thrilled that you have decided to join us and are excited for all you will add to our vibrant community life.

We know this has been a very challenging year for many of you, as COVID-19 has disrupted plans and cut some school years short. We share in your disappointment, and want you to know that everyone at StFX is working especially hard to create an incredible, unforgettable university experience just for you. We can’t wait for you to see for yourselves!

Please know that every single person here at StFX wants you to succeed in all of your goals, and that we’re committed to doing all we can to help you get there. Coming to university is a big change both personally and academically, which is why we make sure you have access to the supports and services you need to thrive. Please read this guide closely to learn about some of them.

I wish you the best of luck as you get ready to begin your StFX journey!

Elizabeth Yeo Vice-President, Students St. Francis Xavier University

On behalf of the StFX Students’ Union, I would like to welcome you to one of the most outstanding communities in the world. StFX is an extraordinary place. You will meet your best friends and make exceptional memories that will last a lifetime. For many of you, this will be your first time away from home, but I can assure you that the family you find here is incomparable; you will be welcomed with open arms! The staff and students here all genuinely care about your success and are here to guide you and help you grow.

The StFX culture is strong and proud, filled with tradition. But this experience is yours to make. There are opportunities for everyone to get involved, every single one of you has the space to flourish and thrive. So my advice to you - please make every moment you’re here count: find what you love, make mistakes and put yourself out there. StFX is not a place to blend in, in fact it is enhanced by you standing out and being yourself!

We are thrilled to have you and cannot wait to help you succeed through our events, advocacy, services and opportunities. If you have any questions, feel free to email me, su_pres@stfx.ca!

Sarah Elliott President St. Francis Xavier University Students’ Union

2

IT SERVICES HELP DESK

Need help with your StFX email account?

Visit mystfx.ca/ithelp E. itservices@stfx.ca T. 1-888-860-2356 H. 8AM – 4:30PM

Steps to Prepare for StFX 1. LOG-ON TO YOUR StFX EMAIL ACCOUNT

If you haven’t already, get to know your StFX email account as soon as possible: •Visit office365.stfx.ca •Login using your StFX username and password (provided in your acceptance package) •Set up your recovery information to ensure you don’t lose access to your account •Click on the ‘Outlook’ tile

Your StFX email account is your key for accessing many important services, including course registration, campus wi-fi, printing services, and Microsoft office products. You must also use this email account to communicate with faculty and staff throughout your time at StFX.

Did you know?

Your StFX account gives you access to the Microsoft Office Suite which you can use online or install on your electronic devices. Access them at office365.stfx.ca

2. REGISTER FOR YOUR COURSES

NEED HELP NAVIGATING THE REGISTRATION PROCESS?

There’s an X Starts Here module on that.

You’ll register for courses using StFX’s Banner Self Service in July. We will send instructions on how to register to your StFX email account in the weeks ahead, but for now please take note of the following key dates: •Thursday, July 9: Course timetable is posted on the Registrar’s Office website.

•Friday, July 24: Registration times for new students will be available and posted within Banner Self Service.

•Tuesday, July 28: Registration opens. New students will be invited to register at the specific time they are given on July 24.

3. SET UP YOUR StFX PHOTO ID Your StFX Photo ID serves as your library card, meal plan card, and access card for residence, including laundry services. It also gives you free admission to most StFX Athletics home games!

You can set up your ID in two easy steps: 1. Visit https://myphoto.stfx.ca/myphotov2.0 to upload a photo.

2. Watch for further instructions this summer on where and how to get your ID card.

3

4. ARRANGE YOUR FINANCES

The months leading up to your arrival at StFX is when you ensure you have financial resources in place for your university education.

Not sure if you’ll require a student loan? Need help building a budget? Visit our Financial Aid website for helpful information and resources: www.mystfx.ca/financial-aid. You can also contact our financial aid office at 902-867-2374/2301 or email financialaid@stfx.ca.

5. SIGN UP FOR StFX ALERTS

StFX Alerts sends you a notification via text, voice message or email when campus is delaying opening or closing early. Enrolment is not mandatory but we encourage all StFX students, faculty and staff to register. Be the first to hear about a snow day! Register now at alerts.stfx.ca

6. STAY CONNECTED If you haven’t already, follow our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat: @stfxuniversity. We’ll keep you updated with all the great things we’re cooking up for your arrival.

Anxious for a first (or second, third, or fourth!) peek at your new campus home?

Visit www.stfx.ca/tour-campus/ to take a virtual tour.

ACADEMIC ADVISING

Our team of advisors can offer helpful information and advice as you make choices. Advising is a tremendous resource for all students!

E. advising@stfx.ca.

4

Important Dates and Milestones SPRING AND SUMMER 2020 MAY

JUN

JULY

AUG

•Accept your residence offer •Apply for student loans (most jurisdictions open their programs in the spring.)

•Register for courses (more information to come on this soon.)

•Set up your StFX student ID and StFX Alerts (see pages 2-3.)

•Get ready to begin your X-Perience!

FALL TERM 2020* SEPT

OCT

NOV

DEC

Please stay tuned for more information in the weeks and months ahead on when we can welcome you to campus!

09

11

02

14

Fall classes begin.

22

Dec. exam schedule available.

Don’t make holiday travel plans before this date!

Remembrance Day. Offices Closed.

12

Last day to drop first-term three-credit courses.

Thanksgiving. No classes.

13

Last day of fall classes.

03

Feast Day of St. Francis Xavier; X-Ring Ceremony.

05

Exams begin.

Last day to change fall term or full year courses.

First tuition/fee payment due.

15

Holiday break begins after last exam.

WINTER TERM 2021* JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

06

15

12

02

Winter classes begin.

13

Winter study break begins.

Last day to drop second-term three-credit courses.

Last day to drop full-year or change second-term courses.

15

Balance of tuition/fees due

29

April exam schedule available.

Don’t make spring travel plans before this date! *Specific dates may be subject to change in accordance with Public Health directives

Good Friday. No classes.

07

Last day of winter classes.

09

Exams begin.

21

Last day of exams.

5

Getting Ready to Come to StFX WHAT TO BRING Consult this list when deciding what should come with you and what should stay at home. Please note you can also purchase most of these items in Antigonish.

•personal documents and banking information (ID, health card, credit/debit card, etc.)

•sheets/blanket/pillow(s) and mattress topper •towels, flip flops or slippers •a basket or bag to carry toiletries to and from washrooms •laundry bag, soap and clothes hangers •power bar/extension cord •iron/small ironing board •first aid kit •pictures/posters & sticky tack to hang them (can be purchased at the StFX Store) •basic cleaning supplies (you are responsible for keeping your own room clean, this includes any private washrooms) •for suites & apartment-style residences: pots, pans, kitchen utensils, etc.

PLANNING ON BRINGING YOUR CAR TO CAMPUS? Please note that a limited number of overnight parking spaces are available, which you must register and pay for.

The cost for an overnight spot in 2019-20 was $250 from September 1 to April 30. Visit www.mystfx.ca/security/ parking for more information.

WHAT NOT TO BRING

•pets (with the exception of fish) •large stereo speakers and sub-woofers •kitchen appliances that: - have an open element (deep fryers, hot plates, toasters, etc.)

- do not have an automatic shut-off feature - are not approved by CSA (Canadian Standards Association) •halogen lights and non CSA approved and/or outdoor mini lights •anything illegal to the Province of Nova Scotia (if it’s illegal, leave it at home - even if it is legal where you live) •nails/tacks/duct tape (if it can’t be hung up with sticky tack, leave it at home) •firearms/ammunition/firecrackers/weapons of any type •candles or incense •additional furniture •wireless printers For more information on packing to live in residence, visit www.mystfx.ca/university-housing.

6

Getting Here

WELCOME DAY ENTRANCE ,

DRIVING DIRECTIONS 1. Off the Trans-Canada Highway 104, take exit 32 and follow the signs to Antigonish.

2. Drive through a set of lights to West Street, and then take your first right (at the next set of lights) onto Convocation Boulevard.

3. Follow the signs for parking.

TRANSIT Maritime Bus (www.maritimebus.com) provides transportation from Halifax Stanfield International Airport to the StFX campus. Please check their online schedule as bus routes are subject to change.

FAMILY STAYING OVER? Families dropping off students can find a list of accommodations at www.visitantigonish.ca/stay. Book your hotel early! There are also a number of restaurants in town, from fine dining establishments to casual food outlets.

7

Welcome!

In a typical year, we are able to share plans on how and when we will welcome you to our campus.

Unfortunately, COVID-19 is preventing us from finalizing these details at this time. Our commitment to you is to share these plans as soon as we can, so please stay tuned in the coming weeks and months for more. In the meantime, as part of your orientation activities you can expect to: • Get answers to questions related to tuition, fees and due dates. You can also make a payment on your student account.

• Receive your schedule for Academic Day • Learn about over 30 student services and activities.

• Receive your pre-ordered Students’ Union Orientation Kit. • Encourage your family to attend the Parents’ Orientation session.

ORIENTATION WEEK St. Francis Xavier University and the StFX Students’ Union promises you an orientation experience that is informative, inclusive and fun! For more information on Orientation Week events, visit www.theu.ca.

8

Living on Campus Coming to university is a huge step - not just academically, but personally. New experiences, new people, and living away from home can be equally exciting and scary. We are here to help!

RESIDENCE LIVING WONDERING ABOUT THE TRANSITION TO LIVING ON YOUR OWN?

There’s an X Starts Here module on Living Your Best Life at StFX

Residence communities at StFX offer a variety of fun programs and resources for all different interests and personality types. Residence is not just a roof over your head; it’s a place to get to know yourself and a chance to make friends for life!

When you move into residence, take time and get to know your Community Advisors (CAs) and Hall Directors (HDs). As senior students, they’ve been where you are and know that transitions can be challenging. They will help you any way they can!

W: www.mystfx.ca/student-life

CAMPUS DINING STARBUCKS

StFX is pleased to have a full-service Starbucks located in the heart of our campus.

Get your caffeine fix!

StFX is proud to offer a number of healthy and fulfilling dining options. If you’re living in residence, you will eat most of your meals in Morrison Hall – our main dining facility – where we offer delicious, freshly-made choices to suit all tastes and appetites.

Eating on the run? Take advantage of our take-out options or grab a quick bite at one of our many cafes and eateries across campus.

W: stfxcampusfood.sodexomyway.com

9

SPECIAL DIETARY NEEDS We’re committed to meeting the special food needs of our students, whether due to allergies or faith-based requirements. Visit stfxcampusfood.sodexomyway.com/explore/health-wellness for more information.

CAMPUS SAFETY AND SECURITY The Safety and Security team serves the campus community 24 hours a day, 365 days a year providing information, directions, and incident response. If you lose your Student ID, Safety and Security can also provide a replacement. Their office is located at 5005 Chapel Square.

P: 902.867.4444 W: www.mystfx.ca/security

10

Making The Transition We’re pleased to offer these supports to assist you on your journey.

STUDENT SUCCESS CENTRE Our instructors can help you build tools to help you succeed in your courses. Visit us to find a tutor, learn how to stop procrastinating, improve your grammar, and much more! The Student Success Centre is located in the Angus L. Macdonald Library.

E: sscentre@stfx.ca W: www.mystfx.ca/student-success

WANT TO EXCEL ACADEMICALLY?

There’s an X Starts Here module on building your academic skills.

ACADEMIC ADVISING Academic advisors provide helpful advice if you have questions about meeting your program requirements, declaring or changing your major, and much more. Academic Advising is located in Nicholson Tower.

E: advising@stfx.ca W: www.stfx.mywconline.com

DIVERSITY ENGAGEMENT CENTRE The Diversity Engagement Centre is home to advisors who offer support for students who identify as Aboriginal, African Descent, or LGBTQ2+ (and their allies.) It is also home to StFX’s Human Rights and Equity Advisor. The Diversity Engagement Centre is located in Bloomfield Centre.

E: DEC@stfx.ca W: www.mystfx.ca/student-life/diversity-engagement-centre

HEALTH AND COUNSELLING Our team of physicians, nurses, and mental health professionals provide a range of health care services for students. We pride ourselves on offering a warm, welcoming, respectful, and inclusive environment. The Health and Counselling Centre is located Bloomfield Centre.

P: 902-867-2263 W: www.mystfx.ca/health-and-counselling/

11

TRAMBLE CENTRE FOR ACCESSIBLE LEARNING If you have a permanent disability, the Tramble Centre for Accessible Learning can provide assistance and support to help you achieve your academic goals. The Tramble Centre is located in the Angus L. Macdonald Library.

E: tramble@stfx.ca W: www.mystfx.ca/accessible-learning

SPIRITUALITY StFX honours all students’ spirituality and beliefs with respect and dignity. We offer a prayer space for all faiths, chaplaincy services, and Wellspring, a quiet space for students. Chaplaincy services are located in Bloomfield Centre, while Wellspring is located in Morrison Hall.

W: www.mystfx.ca/chaplaincy

12

Getting Involved StFX is where academically-focused, socially-engaged students come to university. There are so many ways to make the most of your time here!

WANT TO “GO GLOBAL?”

There’s a X Starts Here module on studying abroad.

CLUBS AND SOCIETIES The environment. Politics. Music. Photography. Entrepreneurship. You name it, we’ve got it. We have approximately 100 campus clubs and societies, and if you don’t find what you’re looking for you can launch your own!

Learn more at: www.theu.ca.

EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS Service Learning: Enrich your academic learning by getting involved in the community. Did you know StFX was the first university to offer service learning in Canada? Learn more about local and international opportunities at www.stfx.ca/academics/service-learning.

International Exchange: StFX has over 40 global partnerships for studying abroad. Springtime in Paris? A winter in Madrid? See the seasons change in Stockholm? You bet. Visit www.mystfx.ca/international-exchange to learn more.

THEATRE, ART AND MUSIC Catch a live show with the latest indie bands or the best in jazz and classical music. Our campus art gallery features regular exhibits and special events, including book launches and photography shows. The StFX campus is also home to Theatre Antigonish, delighting audiences since 1974. Stay tuned for an updated schedule of events.

Did you know?

Your StFX Student ID is your pass to campus recreation facilities, including our fitness centre. It also gets you free entry to most StFX athletics games.

13

RECREATION, CLUB SPORTS & INTRAMURALS Our recreation department normally offers competitive sports clubs for curling, badminton, cheerleading, ultimate frisbee, equestrian, dance, rowing, swimming, men’s baseball, men’s lacrosse, men’s rugby, and women’s field hockey. We also organize intramurals, giving students the opportunity to take part in team and individual sports through a variety of campus leagues and tournaments. Stay up to date about our offerings this fall at www.goxgo.ca/recreation.

VARSITY ATHLETICS StFX has 12 varsity athletics teams participating in Atlantic University Sport (AUS) competitions. We regularly host AUS games and encourage all students to come out and cheer StFX’s blue and white! Your student ID card is your ticket to free admission for most varsity games. Find updated information, schedules and more at www.goxgo.ca.

14

Your Finances SECTION A: TUITION AND GENERAL FEES TUITION AND GENERAL FEES

NOVA SCOTIA STUDENTS

NON-NOVA SCOTIA STUDENTS

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

$ 9,094.82

$ 9,094.82

$ 9,094.82

–

–

$ 9,094.82

(–$ 1,283.00 )

–

–

Full-time Tuition International Student Fee Government Tuition Bursary - N.S. Students Information and Technology Fee

$ 417.92

$ 417.92

$ 417.92

Facilities Renewal Fee

$ 202.87

$ 202.87

$ 197.00

Fitness and Recreational Facilities Fee

$ 119.41

$ 119.41

$ 119.41

Students’ Union Fee

$ 175.05

$ 175.05

$ 175.05

Student Assistance Fee Health & Wellness Expansion Fee Health and Dental Plan*

HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT PAYING YOUR FEES?

Contact our Student Accounts Office: e: aservice@stfx.ca p: 902.867.2123 w: www.mystfx.ca/financial services/student-accounts

Total

$ 6.00

$ 6.00

$ 6.00

$ 125.00

$ 125.00

$ 125.00

$ 445.00

$ 445.00

$ 1,200.00

$ 9,303.06

$ 10,586.07

$ 20,430.02

*Health and Dental plan rates are subject to change YOUR COST FOR SECTION A:

SECTION B: RESIDENCE Choose one residence option

DOUBLE ROOM

SINGLE ROOM/SUITE

Riley Hall and O’Regan Hall

RESIDENCE

$8,310.00

$ 8,695.00

Bishops Hall

$6,030.00

$ 7,235.00

Mount Saint Bernard Traditional

–

$ 7,025.00

$5,770.00

$ 6,925.00

Power/Somers Hall - Includes $525 DCB*

-

$ 8,190.00

Governors Hall (Private) - Includes $730 DCB*

-

$ 9,425.00

Governors Hall (Semi-Private) - Includes $730 DCB*

-

$ 9,040.00

LAUNDRY FEE (charged to all residence students for unlimited access to laundry facilities)

$ 125.00

*Health and Dental plan rates are subject to change YOUR COST FOR SECTION B:

SECTION C: MEAL PLAN Choose one meal plan option. All first-year students living in residence must purchase a meal plan.

MEAL PLANS

To learn more about meal plan options, visit stfxcampusfood. sodexomyway.com

MEAL PLANS 155 Block + $600 DCB*

$3,470.00

315 Block + $300 DCB*

$5,230.00

415 Block + $300 DCB*

$5,945.00

Unlimited meals + $300 DCB*

$6,215.00

*What is DCB? DCB, or declining balance, is a debit system allowing students to purchase items at various cafes and coffee shops on campus. Additional blocks of DCB can be purchased in $50 increments.

YOUR COST FOR SECTION C:

SECTION D: OTHER FEES OTHER FEES Books

$1,250.00 - $1,750.00 *Nursing students may have higher book costs

Entertainment, Travel, Other personal costs

YOUR ESTIMATED FIRST-YEAR COSTS (Sections A + B + C + D): $

Varies per the individual

15

PAYING YOUR TUITION AND FEES Your tuition and fees are divided into two payments: 1. Due September 22, 2020: 65%* of all tuition, residence and meal plan fees (Sections A + B + C) 2. Due January 15, 2021: The balance of remaining fees You are encouraged to pay first-term fees before arriving (or while at) Welcome Day. Please note that credit card payments are not accepted. We accept payment via: • Online banking. Register StFX as a payee using your student ID as the account number.

• Wire transfer • In person (cash, cheque, debit) • Directly from Canadian and American government student loan programs • Online at: www.stfx.ca/international-payment (international students only) *For domestic students only. International students pay 80% of all fees by September 15, 2020.

STUDENTS’ UNION HEALTH AND DENTAL PLAN The StFX Students’ Union Health and Dental Plan will cover select medical costs that are not included under most provincial health care plans, including dental work and pharmaceutical drug costs. If unexpected medical issues arise, you will want to have coverage!

Canadian students with alternative coverage may opt-out if they do so before September 30, 2020. You may only opt-out if you can provide proof of coverage from another provider.

We encourage you to investigate the benefits offered by the Students’ Union plan before deciding to opt-out.

Some students with alternate coverage choose to stay enrolled in the plan because it covers student-specific needs that some other plans do not.

To learn more about your benefits and how to coordinate coverage between two plans, visit www.mystudentplan.ca/stfxsu.

16

Checklist Check off these must-do items as you prepare to embark on your StFX adventure.

❑

Get familiar with your StFX email, Banner Self Service and MesAmis accounts

❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑

Register for your courses

Your X-Perience begins now!

Set up your StFX photo ID Complete your X Starts Here Modules Confirm your finances Apply for a student loan Connect with us on social media

eet Str ew irvi Fa

ENTRANCE

21

25

24

Exit 32

20

22

P

ENTRANCE

35

P

P

P

P

WELCOME DAY

Convocation Boulevard

19

Memorial Field

Convocation Boulevard

23

26

Bishops Place

27

P

28A

32

30

31

Alumni Cres.

1A

1

16

15

ircle

Varsity C

P

Oland Stadium

Martha Drive

Varsity Drive

17

18

29

Chapel Square

28

33

36

Alumni Cres.

6

9

8

P

P

3

2

14

P

5

P

P

Varsity Drive

13

Union Place

10

Cathedral Way

P

4

E

ENTRANC

39

Notre Dame Avenue 7D

Gilmora Circle

P

40

11

7C

7

12

Camden Loop

Soccer Field

P

7B

Founders Walk

7A

38

T: 902 867-2855 • E: stay@stfx.ca • www.stfx.ca

University Avenue

34

37 Tompkins Lane

Martha Drive

Martha Drive

Martha Drive

Cathedral Way

Main Street to Downtown

Notre Dame Avenue

Mount Saint Bernard (MSB) MacIsaac Hall MacNeil Hall Governors Hall Coady International House Somers Hall Power Hall

26.

28.

32.

33.

39.

40.

8.

9.

10.

12.

30.

36.

37.

38.

Bishops Hall MacKinnon Hall Morrison Hall Cameron Hall O’Regan Hall Riley Hall

Mulroney Hall (MH) Nicholson Tower (NT) Annex J. Bruce Brown Hall (JBB) Physical Sciences Centre (PSC) Coady International Institute Markin Global Complex Fine Arts Building

25. StFX Observatory 27. University Chapel 28. MacKinnon Hall A) Business Office 31. Services Building (5005 Chapel Square) Safety & Security Services 34. Mockler Hall 35. Aberlard House

19. Charles V. Keating Centre 29. Bauer Theatre

P Denotes parking available

P Denotes no parking available

In your timetable the buildings are referenced by acronyms

32. Morrison Hall

DINING SERVICES

17. Alumni Aquatic Centre 18. Amelia Saputo Centre for Healthy Living

SPORTS AND RECREATION

4. St. Ninian’s Cathedral 5. St. Ninian’s Place (SNP) 9. Nicholson Tower (NT) Recruitment and Admissions Office 11. Lane Hall 13. Bloomfield Centre 15. MacDonald Hall 24. 42 West Street Building

ADMINISTRATION & OTHER

7.

14.

16.

20.

21.

22.

23.

RESIDENCES

1. Xavier Hall (XH) and Alumni House A) Alumni House 2. McKenna Centre (north entrance) 3. Schwartz School (SCHW) 5. St. Ninian’s Place (SNP) 6. Angus L. Macdonald Library 7. Mount Saint Bernard (MSB) A) Immaculata Hall B) Camden Hall C) Marguerite Hall D) Gilmora Hall

ACADEMIC BUILDINGS

U N I V E RS I TY

AS IT IS ME AN T TO BE.

PO Box 5000•Antigonish, Nova Scotia•StFX.CA Canada•B2G 2W5•1 902 863 3300•stfx.ca