Chloe Ellerbrock

“I loved connecting with my mentee. Being a mentor is a reciprocal relationship where both mentees and mentors learn from each other,” says Ellerbrock. “My mentee and I would collaborate on ideas and share stories from our lives in a dynamic relationship that made me look forward to meeting with my mentee and fellow Indigenous students.”

The Neechiwaken Indigenous Peer Mentor Program helps first-year students in the Qualico Bridge to Success (QBTS) Program transition to university life by promoting student engagement and a sense of belonging on campus. The term Neechiwaken means “friend” in Cree.

The program matches first-year QBTS students with experienced Indigenous students called Lead Neechiwaken mentors who provide academic and social support as well as ongoing advice. Mentors are Indigenous students in any year of study, faculty or program.

The program provides all members with social, academic and cultural learning opportunities, peer-to-peer support, activities to support community building and the opportunity to be a Neechiwaken (friend) to one another.

Bailey Hendry, ISC student advisor and program coordinator, says the past year’s cohort of students were a lot of fun and really seemed to enjoy spending time together.

“We do a lot of activities that get us socializing and crafty,” says Hendry. “One of my favourite nights was our Halloween party in collaboration with the Blankstein Momentum Program. We all carved or painted pumpkins, wore costumes and listened to Halloween music after we shared a meal together. Meals are a common occurrence in our programming and provide us with the opportunity to connect in other ways that are rooted in culture and belonging.”

Ellerbrock says that the program builds a sense of community.

“Indigenous students come together in a safe space to learn from and enjoy one another’s company,” says Ellerbrock. “The UM is a huge environment that welcomes individuals from all walks of life, which can make it a bit difficult to meet people. This program has introduced me to many individuals that I now call friends and spend time with outside of program meetings.”

Students who become a Lead Neechiwaken have the benefit of meeting other Indigenous students, providing support and friendship to a first-year Indigenous student, gaining experience in mentoring and leadership skills and receive training on peer support and active listening.

There are monthly meetings that allow for both Lead Neechiwaken mentors and Neechiwaken mentees to take a break from school and connect with the community. Being a mentor and taking on the Lead Neechiwaken position is recognized in the Experience Record as well; and students can expect to have their experience added if they meet all the requirements throughout the academic year.

Hendry believes that mentoring is important because it gives students the opportunity to build trust with each other, provides a safer space for learning and allows everyone involved to engage in learning new things together. She adds that, as Indigenous peoples, community, mentors and Elders are the sources of guidance often needed to feel a sense of belonging.

“Many mentees have mentioned that they found their mentors to be an incredible source of support and guidance throughout the year,” says Hendry. “The friendships that are built are by far the best part and the monthly meetings provide students with the opportunity to form those friendships in a space like Migizii Agamik that is safe and familiar to them.”

Ellerbrock encourages anyone who is considering becoming a Lead Neechiwaken mentor to apply.

“Being part of Neechiwaken has allowed me to assist other students to achieve their goals as I am striving to achieve mine. I was taught to always give back to our community and to share when we have bounty,” says Ellerbrock. “With the Neechiwaken Indigenous Peer Mentorship Program I was able to do just that while learning from my own mentees. Bailey made the program super welcoming and inviting. She is very easygoing, which made talking to her about anything no problem at all.”

If you or someone you know may be interested in becoming a Lead Neechiwaken mentor please visit the Neechiwaken Indigenous Peer Mentor Program webpage.

Keep informed of your options and new opportunities, services and supports by regularly checking out the Student Weekly e-newsletter that will be delivered to your UM email each Tuesday (undergrad version) or Thursday (graduate student version) and by following the UM student Instagram and TikTok accounts for regular updates.

First year students are encouraged to check out UM Commons for tips and resources designed specifically for the first year journey and to follow the First Year Centre on Instagram.

Parents and supporters who want to know how to best support their students are encouraged to visit this page.

SUPPORTS FOR WELL-BEING

Health and wellness play a critical role in academic success and UM offers a wide range of services to support your well-being. Some of the resources available to students are noted below.

University Health Service (UHS) has clinics on both the Fort Garry and Bannatyne campuses. UHS offers a full range of medical supports and services and both campuses offer virtual and in person appointments.

The Student Counselling Centre (SCC) provides workshops, groups, and individual and couples counselling to support UM students dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship problems and more. Check their website to see what workshops and groups are being offered and to receive help with problems such as attention and concentration.

The Student Wellness Centre is a drop-in space located at 162 Extended Education on the Fort Garry Campus. Stop by to rest, recharge, connect and learn. Health and wellness professionals and trained peer educators from Healthy U will be available for consultation and support (on a drop in and appointment basis) and the space will also host health and wellness preventive and promotional initiatives.

Health and Wellness wants to support you in your health and wellness journey and their office is available to all UM students. In addition to coordinating resources and services in the Student Wellness Centre, they offer health education, run workshops and provide access to the university’s take-home naloxone program.

The Sexual Violence Resource Centre (SVRC) is available for UM students, staff and community members who are seeking information on sexual violence, or who are seeking support regarding an experience of sexual violence. Contact SVRC staff to schedule an in-person or virtual appointment.

The Spiritual Care and Multi-Faith Centre supports you as you navigate through the highs and lows of academic life, helping you piece together and make sense of the troubling, confusing, and exciting parts that make up your life. The Spiritual Care team includes chaplains and other spiritual care providers representing a variety of faith traditions. Spiritual health services are available to all; they recognize, affirm and work with your existing values and beliefs.

Student Accessibility Services is available to provide supports for students with disabilities and to encourage academic success. If you require academic accommodations or accessibility supports, they are available to help.

Student Services at Bannatyne Campus is a service hub for students and residents in the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences. Staff provide supports and referrals for personal and academic success.

Feeling secure financially is important too – the Financial Aid and Awards office can help you make the most of the financial resources, scholarships and more available to you.

It is important for your mental wellbeing to stay active and keep moving. UM students have access to the available sport and recreation facilities at both campuses through the Sport and Rec fee. Please visit the Recreation Services  for details about how to register for personal training, book a workout online, sign up for a class and more. Recreation Services also offers online options, resources and great workouts you can do at home through their Virtual Health and Fitness page.

ACADEMIC RESOURCES

There are a number of academic supports available to help you do your absolute best in your courses. If you are learning remotely, knowing how to thrive in the online learning environment is key to your success. It’s important to keep Academic Integrity top of mind, too.

Academic advisors are available to help you clarify your academic goals and then make decisions to reach them. Advisors can help you answer questions about requirements, develop a plan, assess progress and make changes, weighing options and identifying next steps.

The Academic Learning Centre is available to all students, and can help you improve your skills and learn concrete strategies to become an even better student. They offer workshops, tutoring and appointments to discuss options. Follow along with the self-directed resources to improve your skills in writing and study skills.

Libraries are open for individual student study space, to access the Archives collections and for a host of other services.  They also offer workshops and events.

STAYING CONNECTED

Get involved at UM to bolster your Co-Curricular Record, and build your resumé. Visit UMConnect to find the database of CCR activities or to check out work-study positions.

Student Experience and Development (formerly Student Life) connects students with opportunities to develop leadership skills, and gain invaluable experience while giving back to the campus community. For example, there are a number of peer mentor programs available at UM, for both aspiring mentors and those who would like to connect with a mentor. From volunteer opportunities, to work-study, active involvement in student clubs and campus organizations, there are countless opportunities to become engaged and build career-related skills.

Community Engaged Learning programming teaches students about social justice, allows them to volunteer for change and relate classroom learning to community work. A number of programs are offered, including Community Leadership Development and Poverty Awareness.

The Indigenous Student Centre (ISC) offers holistic and culturally-grounded resources and programming for Indigenous students at UM. Students can book an appointment with an Indigenous Student Centre Elder-in-Residence and join the Elders for weekly sharing circles and cultural learning activities like Fireside Chats. ISC also offers Full Moon Ceremony for women and a men’s group on Thursday evenings (Zongiigabowen). Métis programming takes place on an ongoing basis with events like Metis Awareness Mondays. All events can be found on the Indigenous events calendar.

ISC offers programming like the Qualico Bridge to Success Program, Neechiwaken Indigenous Peer Mentor Program, Blankstein Momentum Program,  and the Indigenous Circle of Empowerment. ISC advisors and program coordinators are also available for advising appointments.

Career Services encourages all students to actively think about their career journey, whether you are just starting your degree, in the middle of your degree or graduating. There are a number of services and resources you can access to support you in career planning and job search. This includes assisting you in learning more about occupations, employment sectors and in finding opportunities in your field of interest such as summer/part-time work, experiential learning opportunities, coop and career/job fairs. Use UM Connect to learn more about workshops, employer sessions and get access to local, regional, national and international job postings.

The International Centre is offering a number of opportunities for international students to get connected and make the most of your time at UM. Students can take part in individual sessions with an International student advisor, or group options like Culture and Connection. Students can take part in Welcome Mentors, Intercultural Leaders, or the Language Exchange program as well.

Finally, check out the many student communities and clubs.  Find out how to follow on social media, attend events, and become a member.

Keep informed of your options and new opportunities, services and supports by regularly checking out the Student Weekly e-newsletter that will be delivered to your UM email each Tuesday (undergrad version) or Thursday (graduate student version) and by following the UM student Instagram, Facebook and Twitter accounts for regular updates.

First year students are encouraged to check out UM Commons for tips and resources designed specifically for the first year journey and to follow the First Year Centre on Instagram.

Parents and supporters who want to know how to best support their students are encouraged to visit this page.

SUPPORTS FOR WELL-BEING

Health and wellness play a critical role in academic success and UM offers a wide range of services to support your well-being. Some of the resources available to students are noted below.

University Health Service (UHS) has clinics on both the Fort Garry and Bannatyne campuses. UHS offers a full range of medical supports and services and both campuses are open for virtual and in person appointments. UHS is also offering both Moderna and Pfizer to the general public by appointment only by calling 204-474-8411, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. 

The Pharmacy in UMSU University Centre offers health care products, prescription medication and personal protective equipment. 

The Student Counselling Centre (SCC) provides workshops, groups and individual counselling to support UM students dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship problems and more. Check their website to see what workshops and groups are being offered and to receive help with problems such as attention and concentration. Initial intake appointments will be available in-person for the fall of 2021; all other services will remain virtual until health guidelines allow other in-person services to resume.

The Health and Wellness Office is available to all UM students and provides information and support for health and well-being. Check out Healthy U – a group of student volunteers who support UM students with their health and wellness.

The Sexual Violence Resource Centre (SVRC) is open for services by phone and email. UM students, staff and community members who are seeking information on sexual violence, or who are seeking support regarding an experience of sexual violence are encouraged to contact SVRC staff.

Spiritual Care offers one-on-one supports, assisting students of all beliefs and world-views when challenged by grief and a loss of purpose, hope, connection and authenticity.  It seeks to resource and connect students with faith communities both off and on campus. It also offers a variety of programming related to spiritual wellness and cultural humility through inter-faith engagement.

Student Accessibility Services is available to provide supports for students with disabilities and to encourage academic success. If you require academic accommodations or accessibility supports, they are available to help. 

Student Services at Bannatyne Campus is a service hub for students and residents in the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences. Staff provide supports and referrals for personal and academic success.

Feeling secure financially is important too – the Financial Aid and Awards office can help you make the most of the financial resources, scholarships and more available to you.

It is important for your mental wellbeing to stay active and keep moving. UM students have access to the available sport and recreation facilities at both campuses through the Sport and Rec fee. Currently, the Active Living Centre at the Fort Garry campus and the Joe Doupe Recreation Centre at the Bannatyne campus are open. Please visit the Recreation Services website for details about how to book workout appointments, and other important information including proof of COVID-19 vaccination as per public health restrictions. 

If you’re not ready to work out in person or don’t have access to the facilities, Recreation Services also offers online options, resources and great workouts you can do at home through their Virtual Health and Fitness page.

ACADEMIC RESOURCES

There are a number of academic supports available, to help you do your absolute best in your courses. If you are learning remotely, knowing how to thrive in the online learning environment is key to your success. It’s important to keep Academic Integrity top of mind, too.

Academic advisors are available to help you clarify your academic goals and then make decisions to reach them. Advisors can help you answer questions about requirements, develop a plan, assess progress and make changes, weighing options and identifying next steps.

The Academic Learning Centre is available to all students, and can help you improve your skills and learn concrete strategies to become an even better student. They offer workshops, tutoring and appointments to discuss options. Follow along with the self-directed resources to improve your skills in writing and study skills. And if you’re tired of studying alone, join in the Virtual Study Hall happening three evenings a week this Fall Term to help you connect with your peers. 

Beginning September 7, Elizabeth Dafoe, Sciences and Technology, and Neil John Maclean Health Sciences Libraries are open for individual student study space. Archives is open by appointment, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Access the collections and other library services online. Visit the Libraries’ COVID-19 updates  often for current library hours and service details throughout the Fall Term.

STAYING CONNECTED

Even if you are learning remotely, you still can get involved at the UM, bolster your Co-Curricular Record, and build your resumé. Visit Career Connect to find the database of CCR activities or to check out work-study positions.

Student Life connects students with opportunities to develop leadership skills, and gain invaluable experience while giving back to the campus community. For example, there are a number of peer mentor programs available at UM, for both aspiring mentors and those who would like to connect with a mentor. From volunteer opportunities, to work-study, active involvement in student clubs and campus organizations, there are countless opportunities to become engaged and build career-related skills.

The Indigenous Student Centre (ISC) offers holistic and culturally grounded resources and programming for Indigenous students at UM. Students can book an appointment with an Indigenous Student Centre Elder-in-Residence by calling 204-474-8850 and can join the Elders for weekly virtual sharing circles and teachings. ISC advisors and program coordinators are also available for advising appointments. ISC offers programming like the Qualico Bridge to Success Program, Neechiwaken Indigenous Peer Mentor Program, Blankstein Momentum Program,  and the Indigenous Circle of Empowerment. Students and staff can attend events like the biweekly Fireside Chats with Elders and Knowledge Keepers. ISC also offers Full Moon Ceremony for women and a men’s group on Thursday evenings (Zongiigabowen). Métis programming takes place on an ongoing basis with events like Metis Awareness Mondays. All events (when available), including sharing circles, can be found here: https://eventscalendar.umanitoba.ca/site/indigenous

Community Engaged Learning programming teaches students about social justice, allows them to volunteer for change and relate classroom learning to community work. A number of programs are still operating, including Community Leadership Development and Poverty Awareness.

Career Services encourages all students to actively think about their career journey, whether you are just starting your degree, in the middle of your degree or graduating. There are a number of services and resources you can access to support you in career planning and job search. This includes assisting you in learning more about occupations, employment sectors and in finding opportunities in your field of interest such as summer/part-time work, experiential learning opportunities, coop and career/job fairs. Use Career Connect  to learn more about workshops, employer sessions and get access to local, regional, national and international job postings.

The International Centre is offering a number of opportunities for international students to get connected and make the most of your time at the UM. Students can take part in individual sessions with an International student advisor, or group options like Culture and Connection or the weekly support chats. Students can take part in Welcome Mentors, Intercultural Leaders, or the Language Exchange program as well.

Check out the many student communities and clubs. Find out how to follow on social media, attend virtual events, and become a member.

1. Changing your goals or being undecided is okay!

Academic advisors see many students who change their minds about what career they want to pursue or are undecided about what program they want to target. We recognize that this is a major life decision and students can feel a lot of pressure. It’s important to reflect on the past year and to dedicate time to explore your career and degree options. The answers will not magically appear, but there are resources that can help you make these decisions. For starters, we recommend visiting Career Services and meeting with a Career Consultant to discuss your interests, volunteer opportunities, career pathways, and various experiential learning opportunities. Your instructors are another excellent resource. We encourage you to ask your professors questions about their field of expertise, and to build on these relationships throughout your studies. They just might have some interesting opportunities for you to get involved and get some hands on experience. All of these things can help you explore your options. 

2. Needing to enhance your study skills and grades is very normal 

Maybe you didn’t achieve the grades you wanted to, or maybe you didn’t take the right courses. Academic advisors recognize that as a first year student, you have likely been dealing with many adjustments and it is common for students to hit some speedbumps along the way. This is an excellent time to reflect on what worked (or didn’t work). Academic advisors are available to guide you through your specific situation and make recommendations on your study habits, course planning and explain the potential outcomes of some of your choices.

An academic advisor can also connect you to dozens of free resources on campus and refer you to workshops, tutors and Student Help Centres that can help you to achieve your goals in your second year. Contact an academic advisor in your program when planning your courses to learn more about what resources might help you succeed!

3. You may need to make some decisions this Summer Term, and we’re here to help.

Depending on how many credit hours you have completed and what program you are in or targeting, there may be some decisions you need to make this summer. For example, if you are in University 1 with at least 24 credit hours, you may have options to Transit to the Faculty of Arts or the Faculty of Science beginning June 10. Or you might already be in a faculty and thinking about declaring a major. Regardless of your situation, academic advisors can help you figure out what might be best for you. We strongly encourage you to meet with an advisor in May or June to discuss your options. 

Remember that every student’s situation and experiences are different, and that academic advisors are here to guide you along the way. We know how much hard work and dedication it takes to get through your first year. We would love to talk to you more about your plan as you transition to your second year.

Have a great summer!

Tina Riggs & Chiedza Chando, Academic Advisors, First Year Centre