If students are ever in search of spiritual or introspective advice, the SCMFC can direct them to one-to-one counsel with the appropriate spiritual care provider. UM has spiritual care providers for Muslim students, Jewish students, and students of students various Christian denominations such as Lutheran, Mennonite, Ukrainian Orthodox, Catholic, and Anglican (the latter two being provided by St. Paul’s College and St. John’s College, respectively) The university also hosts Elders-in-Residence who lead Indigenous centred cultural teaching sessions, ceremonies, and consultation with students.

For irreligious students, the SCMFC still has a role in connecting students to spiritual guidance. Trevor Lehmann has recently been appointed as humanist chaplain for UM’s SCMFC and offers support for students grappling with large, complex, or difficult questions. Commenting on the role of a chaplain, Lehmann summarizes the chaplaincy at UM as follows: “A common misconception is that we [spiritual care providers] have proselytizing role but that is not the case. We draw from our spiritual world view but support students in finding a spiritual world view that meets their needs.”

The focus on spiritual guidance is one often neglected by students. As more Canadians identify as irreligious, especially amongst the younger generation, questions of spirituality, faith, and questions of meaning—typically the domain of religious institutions—are underrepresented for some. Lehmann stresses that “individuals without religious affiliation still grapple with questions of meaning, relationships, ethics, isolation, and other existential concerns.” For him, his role is “providing support and community for staff and students interested in exploring these issues and supporting them in coming to conclusions that can support them in their life going forward.” Taking a spiritual, but non-religious approach, students and staff can better understand themselves and the world around them.

Each individual comes in with their own concerns or questions, and Lehmann explains that there is no one size fits all for helping guide those with questions. As a Humanist chaplain, however, Lehmann facilitates a mutual exploration of those seeking guidance and “Humanist ideas that relate to the 4 E’s”:

• Existential: Questions pertaining to meaning or purpose
• Ethical: Decision-making when there is conflict between values or one’s morals
• Emotional: Creating space to explore beliefs within the full range of emotions.
• Equity: A safe space to inform and support all identities.

Lehmann has been involved with UM for a number of years and brings what he learned from both his education and professional experiences to his support role. During his MEd in Counselling Psychology, he provided interfaith support to patients at the Health Sciences Centre. Upon his return to UM, he participated in interfaith dialogues with the Spiritual Care and Multi-Faith Centre to support staff and students. Recently appointed to Humanist chaplain, his “experience continues to be one of continuous learning as we explore how to best connect students and community, build relations and support people on the journey of life.”

In addition to the work of chaplains and support staff, the SCMFC can connect students to sacred places on campus. These spaces are welcoming environments to support students of various faith backgrounds in their day-to-day life and in addressing spiritual questions. The SCMFC also engages in regular programming, so keep an eye on the website to keep up to date with any wellness events, interfaith dialogues, or supports for students.

To connect with the SCFMC, students can contact the centre via e-mail spiritual care[at]umanitoba.ca or by calling the centre at 204-474-9721. The SCFMC can direct students to the appropriate spiritual advisor for the questions they are grappling with. The centre is open to all, and welcomes people of all backgrounds.

Even the most prepared student, however, may be faced with unexpected circumstances. In this case, a deferred exam may be considered. In the case that a medical or compassionate circumstance arises which prevents a student from writing an exam as scheduled, they may request a deferral. A deferral is a privilege for students. The UM’s Self-Declaration Policy for Students considers the reasons students may be unable to write an exam.

If you are unable to write an exam, and no other documentation is available, you must complete the Fillable Self-Declaration Form for submission with your request for a deferred exam(s).  Students should be aware that submitting a Self-Declaration form either dishonestly, or for a non-valid reason, is the same as submitting any other fraudulent (false) document, which may result in disciplinary action under theUM Student Discipline By-Law.

Examples of non-valid reasons 

• Attending a personal or family event (e.g., vacation, wedding) 
• Optional travel
• Technological difficulties
• Competitions or events, related to personal interests (choir, acting, pageants, exhibitions)
• Employment-related commitments
• Academic/Exam Related Stress

Examples of valid reasons

• Sudden illness or injury on the day of an exam
• Unexpected compassionate circumstances
• Known conflicts of religious observance
• Bereavement or loss of a loved one
• Participation in an inter-university, provincial, inter-provincial, national or international scholastic or athletic event

If you are unsure if your reasons is valid or not, please check with an advisor in your faculty to help navigate the Self-Declaration form.

Even if the circumstances may not fall under what is acceptable for the Self-Declaration form, UM understands that regardless, students may be stressed or may have some difficulties preparing for their exams.  In those cases, now is the time to reach out to student supports and resources. Student Affairs is in full swing for the exam season and students looking for support should reach out.

• For students who are not able to meet academic requirements due to stress reasons, health reasons, or have other accessibility concerns, please contact the Student Accessibility Services.
• The Academic Learning Centre is ready to help students with study skills, exam preparation, and writing workshops.
• The Student Wellness Centre, Student Counselling Centre, or other Student Supports are there to help manage stress, anxiety, and approach the exam season head-on.

Best wishes to all students in their preparations for final examinations.

Here are some recommendations to prepare for studying and writing your exams.

Studying

Different students will have different studying strategies, however here are some that may be helpful.

• Check the exam schedule and manage any exam conflicts and deferrals as soon as possible. In order to write your exam, you need to know when and where it is to help plan.
• Find out what type of exam you are writing for each course. Knowing the format will help you determine what to study, how to study and what you need to prepare.
• Once you have your exam schedule, plan out your study schedule. By keeping important dates in mind, you can plan out how much time to dedicate to a given course and ensure that you can give yourself enough time to prepare for topics that are more challenging.
• Refer to your syllabus, course schedule and course objectives to understand what the course outcomes for your class are. This can help identify important areas of focus that require more attention than others.
• Gather and organize your class materials. Lecture notes, assignments, assigned readings, tests, practice questions, etc. Study a variety of course materials and compare them to the course objectives to understand what you need to understand about various aspects of the course.
• Study actively by creating something new. Reorganize the information in your course material, rewrite your notes, re-summarize your readings, redo tests, create new ways of presenting information discussed in class. This obliges you to fully engage with the material.
• Avoid cramming. Cramming is an overload of the brain. There is only so much you can retain in a short period of time and this can lead to poor results.
• Instead of cramming, if you are short on time, prioritize chapter summaries, course objectives and the material you are less familiar with.
• Test yourself. Redo tests and quizzes. Create and answer your own questions. Try to summarize topics or concepts without referring to your course materials, then go back and fill in any gaps.
• Do LOTS of practice problems, especially if you are in problem-based courses like Math, Statistics, Chemistry, Physics, or Engineering. Do the hardest questions. Approach problem solving in an organized way using the Academic Learning Centre’s GUESS method.
• Be proactive. Ask questions! Talk with your course instructor or teaching assistant and see what supports they can provide. You can also find recorded Academic Success Workshops that can help you continue to succeed, or you can book an appointment with an Academic Learning Centre content/study skills tutor.

Practise Self-care

Focusing on your wellness is as important as studying. It is difficult to retain information and prepare yourself for what is to come if you are not functioning at your best. UM’s supports are numerous. Here are some supports offered this exam period

• Get support and reach out. The Student Counselling Centre offers counselling services for students and has a variety of groups and workshops throughout the year.

• • If you need help developing an action plan for a specific challenge, the SCC offers Single Session Therapy appointments to help you finish the term.
  • If you need a place to study that is not the library or you want to connect with student supports, visit the Student Wellness Centre. The Centre can support you, connect you to supports you may need and more generally offers a safe, calm space for students.

• Attend some of the events on campus designed to support students.

• • Refuel & Charge Ahead! — Monday, April 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. | Swing by the Fletcher Argue hallway for a quick pick-me-up! Our Charge Ahead mentors will be handing out coffee and cookies to students who stop by. Come say hi, grab a sweet treat and charge ahead into exams energized!
  • Doughnut Stress, You’ve Got This! — Tuesday, April 15 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Visit the Connection Desk 109 UMSU University Centre for a free doughnut and affirmation to help power you through the day. 
  • Crunch time — Wednesday, April 16 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. | Staff from the Student Wellness Centre will be going around campus to fuel students with snacks and deliver the good news that the SWC will be open throughout the spring and summer. Make sure to say hi and grab some brain food!
  • Coffee and Cookie delivery — Thursday, April 10 and Wednesday, April 16 from 7 and 9 p.m. (both days) | Spiritual Care and Multi-Faith Services in partnership with UMSU are gearing up to deliver coffee and cookies to students studying on campus in the evenings for final exams.
  • Doughnuts and Coffee — Monday, April 21 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (while supplies last) | The International Centre is hosting doughnuts and coffee in the T. K. Lau Global Lounge (541 UMSU Centre)

• Develop good habits. Connect with UM’s Coordinator of Student Health and Wellness Education to discuss health and wellness topics such as stress management or other ideas for healthier living. The Healthy U website also has multiple resources you can access at any time. 
• Take short breaks regularly. Get up, move, stretch, give your mind a rest, stare at the wall or at something far away to rest your eyes. Essentially, give your body and your mind a rest so you can come back to studying refreshed.
• Make time for things that bring you joy and help you relax. Enjoy a hobby, spend time in nature, tidy up your space or connect with friends and family.
• Celebrate all of your wins: Prepping for finals and finishing your course load can be a long journey. Waiting until the result of your exam or last class is certainly worth celebrating, but so is all of the work you are accomplishing along the way. Attending class, learning a challenging concept, or getting through your most recent study session are all your wins as well. Celebrate yourself as you go, you deserve it.

Similarly to the Fort Garry Campus, international students can seek general support as well as immigration support from advisors at the Bannatyne Campus through Student Services. International Student Advisors (ISAs) provide support and guidance on the status of international students and help students navigate the legal and intercultural barriers that students may face during their transition at UM.

ISAs can meet with students to discuss study permits, post-graduation work permits, and answer questions regarding immigration. Recently, ISAs have received the Regulated International Student Immigration Advisor designation. Speaking to ISA Rebecca Irvingshe explained that this designation “has allowed us to legally give students immigration advice and guidance (within the scope of our designation) on their individual situations and provide more clear and direct information during our Advising meetings.”

Through the International Centre, ISAs also offer immigration information sessions and provide resources for students online and in-person. By meeting with an ISA, students can get assistance navigating both UM and government services and understanding their status as international students.

In 2024, international students accounted for roughly 21% of the student population and roughly 20% of first-time admissions, according to an institutional analysis by UM. These trends are increasing, and the IC and the ISAs play an important role in supporting this population. Referring to the expansion of advising to the Bannatyne campus, Irving states that “these enhanced services from our ISA team have been important to better help our growing international student population, especially in light of the numerous changes that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have recently made that impacts study permit holders in Canada.”

The ISA service at the Bannatyne Campus also helps mitigate one of the barriers that some international students may face, which is simply knowing that these resources exist and being able to find them. Through social media and referrals by other supports, such as the Student Affairs Connect Desk on the 1st floor of UMSU University Centre, international students are referred to the IC and ISAs. By adding International Student Advising to the Student Services at Bannatyne offices, the in-person presence ensures an equitable level of support.

For international students who may not have seen an advisor recently, Irving stresses that students should seek out an advisor as early as possible: “even if a student isn’t sure if they’re coming to us at the right time, or if we can answer their entire question, we encourage students to reach out as soon as they have a question so that they can plan ahead and we can make a referral to another UM office, if needed.”

Students at either campus wanting to make an appointment with an International Student Advisor can do so through the International Centre. Students at the Bannatyne Campus can also reach out to Student Services at Bannatyne via e-mail at bcstudentservices[at]umanitoba[dot]ca or by phone at 204-272-3190.

The International Centre is located in Room 541 UMSU University Centre and is open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and can be reached via e-mail for inquiries at international[at]umanitoba[dot]ca.

“Our role is to provide support to students in whatever capacity they desire, whether it be a listening ear, an educated recommendation, or guiding you to the right resources!” – Theo Hart

Healthy U peer educators can provide a space to talk through many of the challenges that students face.  One of the peer educators, Jayanti Monga, identified that “Some main concerns that students can discuss with [us] are academic stress (e.g., overwhelmed by coursework, work/life balance), resource management (i.e., where to go and what to do for certain concerns), overall wellbeing needs (e.g., academic guilt, burnout, balance, physical/mental health). For the most part, our HU program offers listening ears to those who need to speak with someone – sometimes, all someone needs to resolve something is to talk it out with an impartial person.” Further, peer educator Nicole Alcasid explained that “Healthy U volunteers provide peer support to students about a wide range of health topics—this can look like a lot of things! I’ve talked to students about how to cope with exam stress, how to navigate relationships (familial and romantic), and ultimately, how to balance your “student” identity with all the other roles and responsibilities you may have.”

Alcasid also shared that, “In our one-one meetings, I’d love to emphasize that, while Healthy U volunteers do our best to offer students informational strategies and resources to help them with their current situation, we are also here to listen—simple as that! If you need a listening ear or need some help reflecting upon a wellness-related topic, Healthy U volunteers are here for you.”

Among the many topics that Healthy U peer educators are available to discuss, they are trained to provide support relating to sexual health including answering any questions students might have about STI’s and safer sex supplies. Don’t hesitate to reach out regarding these or other questions you have.

Whether you would like to learn more about wellness, would like to know more about the resources available or are perhaps currently struggling and need support, Healthy U is here to help. Peer educator, Theo Hart, wants all students to know: “Our role is to provide support to students in whatever capacity they desire, whether it be a listening ear, an educated recommendation, or guiding you to the right resources! Our extensive training allows us to assist students through problems and provide them with the tools to better support themselves.  An appointment with a Healthy U volunteer is a convenient balance between speaking to a friend and seeing a mental health professional. We provide care for less severe issues than a mental health professional, with far more education and resources than your friend! If we’re unable to provide care for an issue, we’ll help you find someone who can; you’ll never be expected to simply figure it out on your own!”

Though the Healthy U peer educators are highly trained and ready to help, it is important to note that they do not handle cases of crisis, post-traumatic stress, attention deficit disorder, depression, trauma, suicide, or self harm. If any student is in need of support in these areas, they can consult directly with the Student Counselling Centre. Staff and volunteers at the Student Wellness Centre and Healthy U can also provide further information about the Student Counselling Centre and other similar resources. 

For any students looking to get in touch or learn more, Healthy U peer educators can be found at the Student Wellness Centre in 162 Extended Education Complex on the Fort Garry Campus or through the Healthy U website or email healthandwellness[at]umanitoba[dot]ca.

The SWC at its core is designed to be an inclusive, no expectations space for students to learn about and foster wellness. Its creation was in response to requests from students for a space for learning, connection and growth around mental health and wellbeing. There is a quiet lounge space, a wellness resource library, in-person support and opportunities to connect with other students both through formal programming and informally in the space. Through a generous donation by Shoppers Drug Mart on 2211 Pembina HWY, there are also free menstrual products available at the centre for anyone who might need them. Peer volunteer, Nicole Alcasid, stated, “I’d love for students to know that us volunteers and staff at the Student Wellness Centre try our best to make it a safe, relaxing space! … It’s a lounge space—you can eat lunch, chat with your friends, or study. Or you can pop by, just for a couple minutes, to check out our informational pamphlets or pick up some safer sex supplies!”

For students wondering what the SWC is or whether they should plan to visit, several of the centre’s volunteers shared how the centre can help. As summed up by one of the peer volunteers at the SWC, Theo Hart, “The student wellness centre will meet you wherever you’re most comfortable, whether you’d like to talk it through with a Healthy U volunteer or if you’d simply like to take a resource silently and go! There is no expectation for you to explain why you’ve come!” Keep and eye out for upcoming articles or visit the Healthy U website to learn more about the program.

To provide a bit more detail, Ashley Anderson, the Student Wellness Program Assistant, explained that “At the Student Wellness Centre, we take a holistic approach to student well-being, supporting academic, personal, and professional goals. Students often come to us with concerns like academic stress, time management, or relationship challenges—whether with friends, family, or romantic partners. We also provide a safe space to discuss sexual health topics like STI prevention and condom use. It’s not just about seeking support; you can also drop by our shared space to relax, meet other students, and build connections. You don’t need to be at your lowest to reach out. Whether you’re looking for advice, a sense of community, or just someone to talk to, we’re here to help you thrive.”

Along with being available for drop-in, the SWC also hosts numerous events throughout the term aimed at helping students recharge. Some of these include monthly Pet Therapy, Exam De-stress events – where they give out free snacks and resources to students related to managing stress going into exams, aromatherapy slime making, and movie nights. Follow @healthyuofm on Instagram to find out when these events are happening.

If you are feeling in need of support or just a place to take a breath, keep these words from peer educator, Jayanti Monga, in mind: “the Centre is a really great space to be in. It is comforting and relaxing – totally worth the walk to the extended education building. In addition, our peer educators are really knowledgeable and care so deeply for their work that the centre is always filled with ideas and good energy.”

The volunteers at the SWC can also help connect students with other campus resources such as the Student Counselling Centre. The SWC is here to support your wellness in whatever form that takes – so, in answer to the question of where to start with wellness, start at the SWC.

Location: 162 Extended Education Complex Fort Garry Campus (with the expectation to open up pop up locations at our Bannatyne and William Norrie campuses)

Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday

Stay up to date @healthyuofm or Student Wellness

Questions: email healthandwellness[at]umanitoba[dot]ca

Although rare, medical or compassionate circumstances may arise which prevent a student from writing an exam as scheduled. An exam deferral is a privilege that may be granted under extenuating circumstances.   UM developed the Self-Declaration Policy for Students with these circumstances in mind. 

If you are unable to write an exam, and no other documentation is available, you must complete the Fillable Self-Declaration Form for submission with your request for a deferred exam(s).  Students should be aware that submitting a Self-Declaration form either dishonestly, or for a non-valid reason, is the same as submitting any other fraudulent (false) document, which may result in disciplinary action under the UM Student Discipline By-Law. 

Examples of non-valid reasons 

• Attending a personal or family event (e.g., vacation, wedding) 
• Optional travel
• Technological difficulties
• Competitions or events, related to personal interests (choir, acting, pageants, exhibitions)
• Employment-related commitments
• Academic/Exam Related Stress

Students who are not able to meet academic requirements due to experiencing high levels of academic or exam-related stress should seek out support by contacting Student  Accessibility Services or Student Support Case Management.  

Examples of valid reasons 

• Sudden illness or injury on the day of an exam
• Unexpected compassionate circumstances
• Known conflicts of religious observance
• Bereavement or loss of a loved one
• Participation in an inter-university, provincial, inter-provincial, national or international scholastic or athletic event 

Be sure to check with an advisor in your home faculty (or your faculty’s website) to confirm which events and other reasons may be supported by the Self-Declaration form. There are some circumstances in which other documentation may be required by your faculty. If you are experiencing anxiety around your academic obligations, please use the student supports and resources available to you, such as: 

• Academic Learning Centre for study skills, exam preparation, writing workshops 
• Student Wellness Centre, Student Counselling Centre, or other Student Supports to manage stress and anxiety
• Student Accessibility Services if related to an ongoing or chronic health condition 

 Best wishes to all students preparing for final examinations.

The IAEP has 6 levels: the Foundations level emphasizes English for daily life, levels 1–4 focus on academic preparation for intermediate, and advanced level students and the 5^th level prepares students for admission to the UM. Direct admission into level 5 requires minimum test scores on one or several eligible tests, while levels 1–4 have a placement test to place students in the level best suited for their learning. More information about this process can be found on the ELC’s website. AL-Zuhairi was placed in level 5 and completed her program in December 2023, allowing her to begin her program in U1.

AL-Zuhairi shared how valuable and positive the experience was from a variety of angles. From the academic side, she noted: “There were many things which I learned. Reading classes we analyzed texts. Speaking classes, we practiced presentations and speeches. Listening classes, we learned how to effectively take notes and follow up with the main idea. In writing classes, we learned how to write about anything in every style whether it was a small paragraph or a research paper.” She also explained that “the ELC emphasizes not only academic language skills but also personal growth, creating a holistic learning journey. The sense of community at the ELC coupled with connections formed, contributes to a supportive and enriching second home for students. Overall, the English Language Centre stands out for its comprehensive approach, ensuring both linguistic mastery and a transformative educational experience.”

AL-Zuhairi found new friendships, a sense of community, and new experiences through the program. She explained that her favourite part of the program was “the fact that there were many people from all over the world to learn with and from.” She added that “Our shared friendships fostered a thriving classroom that improved our learning environment. I was able to learn from others about their culture and try some of their very good food with the happy environment we were in, we felt like a family.”

For students who are unsure if the program is right for them, AL-Zuhairi’s words of encouragement may shine some light on the benefits of the program: “The ELC went beyond language acquisition; it encouraged personal development, forging connections, and establishing a second home establishing a second home. Choosing the ELC program promises not only enhanced academic language proficiency but also a heightened sense of confidence in using the language. Experiencing a gradual improvement in your language skills can be described as an unparalleled joy.”

If AL-Zuhairi’s resounding praise is not persuasive enough, the IAEP’s benefits are also visible in student achievement statistics. More than 80% of students who begin the IAEP go on to pursue a degree at UM. These students achieve higher marks than international students who did not complete the program and higher first year GPAs than Canadian students. They also have higher degree completion rates than other international or Canadian students. These statistics come as little surprise when hearing how Riyam summed up her experience: “I would like to say that joining the ELC is such a blessing that not a lot of people are aware of it until they try it. It is fun to sit in a small classroom where you can get to know your teachers, peers and staff. You get a lot of attention that you will not get in a larger classroom. The staff put in so much effort to make fun activates and make the time much easier. I said it once and I will say it again, I am grateful for the ELC program.” 

If you are interested in learning more, you can visit the ELC’s website and/or contact the ELC directly at elc@umanitoba.ca.