Students and their mentors meet regularly one-on-one to discuss any challenges they may face and to celebrate the triumphs of the year. During the pandemic, the meetings have moved online. Participants are also invited to attend monthly online workshops that are geared towards new students and the essential skills they need to be successful at university. These workshops include topics such as maintaining balance, planning and goal setting, effective study strategies, personal values, self-care, and resources on campus.

New this year is the Peer Helper program which invites any student, new or returning, the opportunity to have one-time peer mentoring and support. To meet with a Peer Helper, sign up for an appointment here. Peer Helpers meet virtually with students to actively listen and share personal experiences, make referrals to campus resources and share information about how to get involved in student and university life. The Peer Helpers also host an online social event once a month for all students enrolled in the Peer Mentoring program.

“Our hope for first-year students in the New Student Peer Mentoring Program is that they will find university easier to navigate, and thus have better experiences and improved academic performance,” says Katie Leitch, Student Life Coordinator and co-manager of the program.

Both Peer Mentors and Helpers receive extensive training and ongoing professional development in the areas of interpersonal communication, emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, effective feedback, peer coaching, and team building. The program offers Peer Mentors and Peer Helpers the opportunity to become leaders, contribute to the campus community, and make new friends. All students who complete the year-long program requirements are considered for Co-Curricular Record recognition.

Students who are looking for a mentor can apply for the winter 2021 term now.

Interested in helping other students? Applications for the Peer Mentor or Helper will open again in the summer of 2021.

The NSPMP isn’t the only peer mentoring opportunity on campus. The Neechiwaken Indigenous Peer Mentor Program matches new new Indigenous UM students, known as Neechiwaken, with experienced Indigenous students, known as Lead Neechiwaken, who act as mentors, providing academic and social support and ongoing advice. It is open to Indigenous students in any year of study.

The program provides members with social, academic and cultural development, peer-to-peer support, activities to support community building and personal growth and the opportunity to be a Neechiwaken, or friend, in the Cree language. It is organized by the Indigenous Student Centre. 

International students also have their own peer mentorship opportunity. The International Centre’s Welcome Mentors pairs new international students with experienced UM students to provide one-on-one intercultural, personal and academic support for one academic term. 

Many departments and faculties have programs that can help you connect with a mentor for support. Check with your faculty or department to learn more.

1. Online Study Power Hour

The Academic Learning Centre (ALC) hosts the Online Study Power Hour to help students get together and study. The sessions start with setting a goal and then everyone works to complete their individual goal for 25 minutes. After a short break, everyone sets a new goal and works toward it. There are three 25-minute sessions per power hour. The chat feature allows you can ask the ALC instructors about goal setting, studying and learning at the beginning of each session. You don’t need to register, so feel free to join when you have time.

2. Student Success Month

October is Student Success Month. Students can take advantage of UM’s services and opportunities to help get through the term with ease. The month features a broad range of topics that highlight the many resources available to support your success. Topics include, career preparation, stress management, academic writing, research skills, cultural adaptation and identity, and more.

3. Tutoring

The ALC offers free one-on-one tutoring to help you become a more successful student. There are three focuses of tutoring: content, study skills and writing. Content tutors help with specific subjects and courses. Study skills tutors help improve your time management, reading and note-taking skills, and provide test-taking strategies. Writing tutors can give you guidance on your academic writing, whether you already have a draft completed or are just starting a written assignment.

The Math Help Centre (MHC) is available to first-year students who need some extra help with their math courses. The Centre is staffed by graduate students who have a passion for teaching and have the knowledge and experience with lower-level math courses.  The MHC also offers workshops, study groups, instructional videos and more to help you with any math problems you might have.

4. Student and Academic Support

UM has designed a large number of supports and resources to help students on their journey from first year to graduation. The Student Support page on the UM website has everything you need to succeed, including support for everyday life, health and wellness, and academic support.

5. Libraries

Even with the current remote learning environment, the UM Libraries are ready and available to help all students. You can borrow books, use online resources, attend virtual workshops and more. Students can also chat with library employees in real time through the Ask Us! portal. We encourage everyone to stay home as much as they can, but if you absolutely can’t study at home, or are on campus for a lab or class, there are study spaces available at the Elizabeth Dafoe Library on first-come, first-served basis. The Science and Technology Library is also available for studying by pre-booking your spot. Just remember that masks are mandatory inside all university buildings.  

6. Remote Learning

Last month, we shared the top five tips for online learning. This article will help you get prepared and thrive in our new remote learning environment.

As always, we want you to remember that we’re here for you. UM staff is available online and by phone to help you navigate university life and remote learning. Also, make sure to visit UM Commons for even more resources to help you succeed.