WelcomeBook_2009

Discover the Real U

Congratulations Welcome to the University of Lethbridge

Today is the day your adventure begins. You have reached the end of one phase of your education, and you are about to start another.

Your surroundings will be new but it will also be a return to a familiar environment. Along the way, you will open doors of knowledge and understanding that will change the way you view the world and help define you as an individual.

, your journey starts here

Your time at the University will give you the confidence to make your mark on the world.

Welcome to the University of Lethbridge!

The decision to pursue post-secondary education is one of the most significant investments you’ll ever make, and we would like to thank you personally for choosing the University of Lethbridge.

As you’ll soon experience, the U of L will provide you with a personal and supportive learning environment. Our classes are small, and you’ll get to know your professors and fellow classmates by name. Your professors are passionate about what they teach, and they will expose you to research and thought that will allow you to view the world from a variety of new perspectives. This is your time to learn about the world in a way you never dreamed possible!

As you go forward this year, take advantage of all the opportunities available to you at the U of L. Participate in co-operative education, internship or practicum opportunities to gain skills transferable to the workforce. Enhance your degree by assisting one of your professors with unique and innovative research that will prepare you for graduate studies.

Experience new cultures through international exchanges, study tours and travel tours.

And get involved: attend a Fine Arts production, participate in our many campus-wide celebrations, join one of our unique student clubs and cheer on our Pronghorns.

The following pages are filled with information to get you started on your journey at the U of L, and you will also find important contact information for various student services across campus. Should you have any questions or concerns, we will be happy to help you.

We look forward to meeting you at New Student Orientation.

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Before you start:

Where to go for information Talk to an academic advisor

You’ve Academic advisors in each Faculty are applied available during walk-in and appointment to the times to assist you with program planning. You may consult with an advisor regarding academic regulations, course selection, and program planning.

Faculty of Arts and Science 403-329-5106 artsci.advising@uleth.ca

Faculty of Education 403-329-2254 edu.sps@uleth.ca

Counselling Services

Disabilities Resource Centre If you have been diagnosed with a disability, there’s no need to face the challenge of university without support. The Disabilities Resource Centre is here to help students with a wide range of challenges. By providing learning strategies, technological support and exam accommodations, we create a supportive learning environment for every student.

Faculty of Management

Attending university for the first time can be an overwhelming experience. It’s important to know what supports and resources are available to students on campus. The Counselling Services office is located in Turcotte Hall, and staff are available to help you with your study and test taking skills. As well, throughout your degree, counsellors are there to help with career decisions. Personal counselling is also available to students, free of charge, and it’s strictly confidential.

403-329-2153 undergrad.management@uleth.ca

Phone: 403-317-2845

Still have questions?

Educational Support

Faculty of Fine Arts 403-329-2691 Make an appointment online at www.uleth.ca/finearts/advising

Faculty of Health Sciences 403-329-2649 health.sciences@uleth.ca

The Recruitment and Student Life office is here to help. Call us at 403-329-2762 or email inquiries@uleth.ca at any time. If you have a question, we’ll find the answer!

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Phone: 403-329-2766

Get started off right by being prepared for academic life at university. All students can benefit from one-on-one help with study skills, time management and exam preparation. Book an appointment before your first day of classes or during the first month of school.

Phone: 403-329-2762

What is the Bridge?

It’s our web information system found at www.ulethbridge.ca/bridge.

Before school starts, you can log in to: • check your application status • apply for scholarships • buy your parking pass

Native Student Advising

International Centre for Students

Oki! If you are of First Nations, Metis, or Inuit descent, we encourage you to take advantage of services designed to meet your specific needs. The primary role of the advisor is to guide, encourage, and support students. The services are extended without charge on a confidential basis.

The International Centre for Students (ICS) offers services specific to the needs of international students. If you are an international student, the International Student Advisor (ISA) provides support and assistance in adapting to campus life socially, academically and culturally. The ISA is also able to assist in immigration issues with respect to study permits, work permits, and temporary resident visas. The Language Centre provides support to those needing help with English. In addition, non-credit courses are offered through the English for Academic Purposes and Writing for University programs.

Phone: 403-317-2812

• view your assigned registration dates • view any holds on your registration • check your class schedule • add and drop classes Once you’re here, you can also: • review your statement of student charges and payments • view exam schedules • view your final grades for the current semester • update your contact information and password

Phone: 403-329-2053

Don’t forget to confirm you’re coming It’s important to confirm your acceptance and pay the tuition deposit (which is separate from your application fee). This lets the University know you are coming to the U of L, and you will be able to register for your classes.

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Funding your education One of the most important things you need to do is arrange for funding for your academic year. The Scholarships and Student Finance office is here to help you.

Explore your options The Scholarships and Student Finance staff can help you understand: how to pay your tuition, what sources of financial aid are available to you and how you apply for financial aid.

We also develop spending plans with students concerned about living on a limited budget.

You can get: • information on government student loan programs and help applying • application forms for U of L scholarships and awards • information on awards available from sources outside the University.

Phone: 403-329-2585

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Your next steps...

Buy your books

Find accommodation

Arrange your transportation

The bookstore is your one-stop-shop for all the materials you need for your classes. The bookstore offers Textbook Reservation for students taking classes at the Lethbridge campus.

Please note that you do not have to be registered in your classes in order to sign up for this Reservation service.

On campus housing provides the chance to take in all aspects of the U of L and goes far beyond a place to live. There are 586 beds available for single students and over half of them are reserved for first year students.

Demand is high for residence so it’s important to apply early!

If you don’t sign up for the Textbook Reservation service, you can also find out which textbooks you need for your classes through our TextFinder service. This service allows you to print a personalized list of the textbooks for your classes – either online or in-person at the bookstore. The TextFinder service is available two weeks prior to the start of each semester.

To apply, visit www.uleth.ca/housing.

Parking is available for students who drive to school. There are parking lots all over campus and you can purchase a parking pass online through the Bridge (p.3) or by visiting the Cash Office. The City of Lethbridge also offers public transportation. Visit www.lethbridge.ca for transit routes and fares. Typically you don’t have to walk too far to find a bus stop and it can take you right to the University.

Visit www.ulethbridge.ca/bookstore for more information.

If you haven’t applied for on-campus housing, there are still a lot of reasonably priced student accommodations located within walking distance of the University and around the city. The U of L has an off-campus housing list that provides detailed descriptions, prices and contact information for many of these accommodations. Check it out at www.uleth.ca/offcampushousing.

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You’ve finally arrived! It’s your first day on campus and the excitement surrounding the start of a new semester is almost tangible. Here’s what you need to get started.

Your Campus ID card and Bridge Bucks you purchase food if you are on a meal plan; and it can be used for door access and Bridge Bucks.

One of the first things you need to do when you arrive on campus is get your U of L ID card.

This ID card is important, not only for identification around campus, it is also your library card; it allows you access to the fitness centre, pool, gym and climbing wall; it is how

Thinking of working while you go to school?

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Bridge Bucks allow you to turn your ID card into an on-campus debit card without any banking fees. After you add money to your account, on campus or online, you can make purchases at most University food outlets, the Copy Centre, the Bookstore and many of the vending machines and photocopiers all over campus.

Your first ID card is free and can be picked up at the Anderson Hall or University Hall (E6) computer labs.

A lot of students do, and there are many options available on and off campus.

Where you can work There are many opportunities to work while you go to school. Jobs on campus can include working as a personal trainer, lifeguard, lab

assistant, theatre usher and more. You can also work in your department as a student marker, or give a tour to prospective students and their friends as they visit campus for the first time.

Check with your department office or visit the University’s Notice Board (www.uleth.ca/ notice) regularly to find the job opportunity that is right for you. You can also visit the Career Resource Centre to find work opportunities in the city of Lethbridge.

Students’ Union (SU) services

Representing YOU - the student Within the Students’ Union is the Executive Council and General Assembly, which is the student government body that represents U of L students. There are four Executive Council members that work within the university community.

Test bank The test bank offers a comprehensive collection of previous exams collected from every class available at the U of L. Search the database for your course and professor to access the ultimate study tool – available in the SU office or online at www.ulsu.ca.

The Zoo The Zoo is the only campus pub, fully owned and operated by the Students’ Union. It’s a great place to meet friends, watch hockey games, shoot pool, play foosball and have a good time. Each year, the Students’ Union host a variety of events including cabarets, live bands, comedians and more!

Health and dental plan The Students’ Union provides a mandatory health and dental plan to ensure full-time students are insured and protected while pursuing their studies. If you are covered under an alternate extended Health and Dental Plan, you must go to the Students’ Union Health and Dental Plan Office and OPT OUT before the deadline or you will be charged for a full year of coverage. Visit www.ulsu.ca for details.

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Student clubs Clubs are a great way to meet new people, connect with other students in your program, or try out a new interest. In fact, there are over 40 clubs on campus for you to choose from! You could join the Surf Club, the Anthropology Club, Improv Club, or the Social Mathematicians!

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New Student Orientation

New Student Club

New Student Orientation (NSO) is an introduction to the life and culture you will find at the University of Lethbridge.

We want to help you with the transition from where you are now to the University and we hope to give you the tools to succeed as a first year student!

Are you new to Lethbridge and want to meet others with similar interests? New Student Club is designed to introduce first year students to the University of Lethbridge. There are activities on and off campus each week, including rock climbing, bowling, a photo rally and more!

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Take part in team building activities that will help you meet other first year students

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Visit information booths to discover all of our student support services

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Take a tour of campus throughout the day

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Meet your professors and learn more about your Faculty

For more information, email orientation@uleth.ca or visit DISCOVER.ulethbridge.ca/MYNSO to register.

If you have questions or would like to join, email orientation@uleth.ca.

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Luxie joins the Opera Workshop.

Things to do on campus Once you’re on campus, you might want to explore the other extracurricular activities on campus.

Centre for the Arts Each year there are more than 40 exciting theatre productions, dance recitals, improv shows, musical performances, exhibitions, and more that take place on campus. These events may take place in the 450-seat proscenium theatre, recital hall, David Spinks blackbox theatre, art gallery and drama or music studios.

All students, no matter what their major, are invited to participate in fine arts activities by auditioning for a play, performing in a music ensemble, or joining student groups such as the Improv Club or Theatre Arts Society.

If you’re not interested in participating you can still watch one of the many theatre and music performances that take place throughout the year.

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Art Gallery The University of Lethbridge Art Gallery presents exhibitions of historical and contemporary art that engage with a range of current topics. Exhibitions include cutting-edge work by artists from across Canada as well as works from the University’s extensive and nationally renowned art collection.

All students and the general public are invited to view exhibitions and participate in hands-on activities throughout the year. Check out the Gallery website for online access to the collection and more detailed information at www.uleth.ca/gallery.

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If you’re interested in sports, there are a variety of recreational activities on campus for you to try out.

Sport & Recreation If you’re looking to stay in shape or just have fun, the 1st Choice Savings Centre for Sport and Wellness offers a variety of programs that promote healthy living.

Whether it’s scaling the climbing wall, working out in the fitness centre, joining an intramural team or taking a dance class, the options are endless! As a U of L student your fees include access to these facilities so make the most of them.

Beside the 1st Choice Savings Centre is the Max Bell Aquatic Centre, which has an Olympic-sized pool where you can swim, dive or kayak. This training facility features several springboards, two dive towers as well as a moveable floor to accommodate water aerobics.

Did you know that our sports teams are called the Pronghorns?

Interested in becoming a Pronghorn?

There are 10 teams, including men’s and women’s basketball, hockey and soccer; women’s rugby; as well as a combined teams in judo, track and field and swimming.

The Pronghorns continue to be a competitive force in interuniversity athletics, but most notably our Women’s Rugby team has captured three consecutive CIS National Championships!

For more information on program registration, visit www.uleth.ca/sportrec.

If you were a successful athlete in high school, we encourage students to contact the relevant Pronghorns coach directly for information. Camps and tryouts are held at various times of the year. Visit www.gohorns.ca for more information.

Show your Pronghorn Pride

If you’re not an athlete but you’re interested in sports - or just want to be a part of the University community - why not take in a Pronghorns game? Tickets are available at a discounted rate for students!

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Make the most of your degree Add work experience to your degree to get the upper hand once you graduate.

Co-op education The Co-operative Education and Internships Program is a great way to get practical work experience with some of Canada’s top employers, while still being registered as a fulltime student.

By enrolling in the Co-op Program, you’ll work in a paid position related to your degree and possibly line up a job before you graduate. Cooperative Education opportunities are available to Arts & Science or Management students.

Fast facts about co-op:

• Enhance your education with hands-on learning • Fund your education - Co-op jobs are paid positions • Build valuable contacts with employers

Arts and Science Co-op/Applied Studies

• Increase your employability skill sets

Phone: 403-382-7154

• Improve and develop your resume

Email: artsci.coop@uleth.ca

• Work anywhere from four to 16 months • Work locally, nationally or internationally • You decide when and where you want to apply

Applied Studies

Plan Ahead!

Looking to decrease your course-load and gain experience at the same time? Consider doing an Applied Study. Applied Studies give you the chance to set up either a paid or volunteer position where you’ll get course credit toward your degree for your working hours.

Setting up a Co-op job, Applied Study or an International Exchange takes time and planning. Sign up for information sessions in your first few weeks on campus to ensure you’re ready for your dream job when it comes up.

Management Co-op Phone: 403-380-1810 Email: mngt.coop@uleth.ca

“I am a Co-op success story in every way, shape and form. With the skills I have learned, the experience that I’ve gained, and the confidence that I’ve built, I have changed from a small-town girl with a limited view of what was on the horizon to an independent, successful adult with the world at my feet.”

Holly Miller, BA, English – Co-op, ‘09 Completed a co-op with Communications Security Establishment of Canada in Ottawa

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Study abroad There are opportunities to travel the world and continue your studies.

Exchange opportunities are available with almost all programs at the U of L in countries all over the world, including Japan, Paris, Holland, Peru, Germany and Spain. “One of the great things about being a U of L student are the liberal education options. Even though I’m a management student, I was able to participate in a fine arts study tour in Paris and receive credit towards my degree!�

Kevin Joseph, BMgt,

Travelled to Paris and Holland as part of his studies

Prepare for your career “All of the services offered by CES, from interview workshops, one-on-one sessions, resume and cover letter review, to job/career search tips, have helped me develop my professional confidence and obtain a position in my field!”

Layne Plourd, BFA (New Media)

Take a class Check out our Career Development 2000 course. This course uses a variety of activities to help you recognize and shape your career and life goals.

Career and Employment Services Career and Employment Services (CES) can help you explore part-time, full-time, summer, international and volunteer opportunities. CES also creates opportunities for you to explore careers (e.g. career fairs).

You can also access: • An online database to search the available opportunities • Workshops on job search strategies, resume writing and interview techniques • Career advising • Occupational and labour market information • Resources to link your education with careers You can sign up for an individual consultation, group workshop, information session or an email consultation.

Phone: 403-329-2187

This is what your life could be like as a student at the University of Lethbridge. Although this is the end of our guide, it’s only the beginning of YOUR story...

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4401 University Drive Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4 www.ulethbridge.ca