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Welcome and Plenary Session - International Student Support: Collaborating with Community Partners
In this opening plenary session, learn how community partners and institutions can collaborate to provide international students with a greater level of support.
Description
Discover the work of community organizations, Archway and S.U.C.C.E.S.S., and find out about the collaboration between the University of the Fraser Valley and their community partners. This session also explores Indigenous engagement and international student support.
Speakers
Daryl Smith — University of the Fraser Valley
Swinder Singh — Archway Community Services
Clay Little — Vancouver Community College
Ryan Drew — S.U.C.C.E.S.S
Immigration Advising
This session examines recent developments in the immigration process and policy affecting international students pertaining to the International Student Program (ISP) and related programs and processes (e.g. PGWP).
Description
Through an overview of recent program and policy updates, learn how immigration law and policy impact students’ day-to-day academic and personal decisions as well as approaches to advising to support students through the ambiguity of an ever-changing policy landscape. In addition to considering the nexus between immigration and institutional policy, this session invites viewers to reflect on their own dual roles as immigration practitioners and advisors within their institutions.
Speaker
Will Tao — Heron Law Offices
Creating a Sense of Belonging for International Students
How can international student support practitioners foster belonging, genuine relationship building, and meaningful student engagement?
Description
This recording focuses on learning about student-centred programs, initiatives, and leadership opportunities at the University of Victoria (UVic) and Langara College. Creating space for international students to share their diverse perspectives, cultures, and ways of understanding the world is of vital importance. Institutions have a responsibility to support them in finding a sense of belonging and inclusion in the campus community. Facilitators from the UVic Global Community Student Advisory Council and the Langara i-Guide Peer Mentorship Program shared their learnings in this discussion with BC Symposium attendees.
Speakers
Theresa Lundy — University of Victoria
Olivia Kong — Langara College
Navigating Uncertainty: Advising in Volatile Times
Watch this recorded webinar on effective approaches to assist international students in unpredictable times.
Description
This session explored scenarios that may create uncertainty among students and identified the key points to consider when providing assistance. Attendees were encouraged to share their expertise to enrich the dialogue, emphasizing best practices.
Speaker
Enrique Chacon — Vancouver Island University
Optimizing International Student Communications: Rights, Assistance, and Supports
Empowering international students begins by ensuring they are informed about their rights and the support systems available to them, both before they arrive and once they’re on campus.
Description
In this session, find out how LaSalle College and Northern Lights College adapt their strategies to cater to the needs of international students. They discussed practical approaches, shared experiences, and created a space to talk about what works as well as the challenges institutions face in keeping international students informed throughout their academic journey.
Speakers
Alyzea Merchant — LaSalle College Vancouver
Marissa Thola — Northern Lights College
From Campus to Career: Supporting Students to Professional Success in Canada
In this engaging session, Vancouver Community College (VCC) and the University of British Columbia (UBC) showcased their initiatives to help international students transition into the workforce.
Description
VCC presented its collaborative and decentralized approach to career support for international students, with a special focus on the Ready 2 Work program. UBC highlighted its “Launch Your Career in Canada” initiative, hosted by the UBC Career Centre in Collaboration with Alumni UBC – an annual networking experience open exclusively to international students, providing an opportunity to hear from and connect with alumni and industry professionals alike. Watch this session to learn more about the structure of these programs and students’ outcomes.
Speakers
Rachel Warick — Vancouver Community College
Shabnam Khalaj – UBC
Promoting Students' Health and Well-being
Join Gaya Arasaratnam and Vaidehi Chavan in an engaging conversation exploring the intersection of education and well-being for international students.
Description
In 2022, Canada welcomed more than 800,000 international students to its provinces and territories. As we welcome students from across the world, it is vitally important that we understand and address the unique health and well-being needs of international students. Join Gaya Arasaratnam and Vaidehi Chavan in an engaging conversation exploring the intersection of education and well-being for international students. This discussion aims to uncover effective strategies and initiatives to bridge gaps, dismantle barriers, and foster an inclusive environment for students. Gaya and Vaidehi share their experiences and perspectives on creating a community that not only creates knowledge, but also prioritizes the mental health and well-being of all its students.
Speakers
Gaya Arasaratnam — University of British Columbia, Okanagan
Vaidehi Chavan — Langley School District #35
Supporting Students from the First Conversation Onward
Explore strategies and best practices for fostering a positive and nurturing environment from the initial interaction with an international student.
Description
Learn how to provide valuable support, guidance, and resources to students throughout their academic journey, creating a foundation for success. Whether you’re a recruiter, educator, advisor, or administrator, this recorded session offers practical insights to enhance the overall student experience from the very first conversation.
Speakers
Antonio Rivadeneira — Camosun College
Indra Manhas — Kwantlen Polytechnic University