A message from Dr. Chris McGrath, Vice-President, Students
When we return to campus after the holiday break, our NC community will play an important role in helping students navigate their first steps into #ncLIFE this Winter term.
Whether students are joining NC for the first time or continuing their studies, our collective efforts help set the foundation for a supportive and engaging start to the new term and year ahead. Whether you work directly with students or behind the scenes, it’s important to remember that every interaction counts toward creating a welcoming and inclusive environment across our campuses.
NC employees: Help create a warm welcome for students
Orientation Day (Friday, January 9) marks the beginning of the NC experience for new students, while the first day of classes (Monday, January 12) welcomes returning students back to campus. These early days set the tone for a positive start to Winter term, and your support can make a meaningful difference. We encourage all employees (where operationally feasible) to set aside an hour on both Orientation Day and the first day of classes to step away from regular duties to spend time in common areas around campus.
A warm greeting, a helpful offer of directions, or a reassuring answer can go a long way in helping students feel confident and supported as they navigate our learning spaces, hallways and campus grounds. Please wear your NC gear, name tag, or staff ID so students can easily identify you as a supportive resource at the College. Together, let’s ensure every student feels welcomed to #ncLIFE from day one.
Helpful tools and resources to guide your support
Make it easier to guide students and enhance their on-campus experience by exploring and promoting the following resources:
- Orientation Website: Learn about transition programming, program information sessions, and activities to better assist students with questions or concerns via the Orientation website. Our programming extends beyond January 9 and includes a series of activities and events over the first six weeks of the semester that help students to get connected.
- LauNCh guide: This helpful online resource provides students with so many resources about the ‘how to’ of #ncLIFE. Many employees will also find it helpful! It includes information about things that a lot of students worry about on their first day, such as getting their Student ID, accessing wifi and email, and finding their timetables. It provides instructions on how to access BrightSpace, in addition to a wealth of academic and personal support resources.
- NC Engage App: Get familiar with the NC Engage App to help students discover campus activities, events, and opportunities to connect with others. The app also includes access to the Co-Curricular Record (CCR), so students can track their involvement and build out their resumes.
- NC Mobile App: The NC Mobile App features an interactive Wayfinding Tool that provides directions around campus, making it especially useful for new students finding their way to classes for the first time.
Learn more about NC’s Orientation and start-of-term activities and programming here.
Looking ahead to a strong Winter term
Niagara College’s student-focused, welcoming, passionate and trailblazing characteristics shine through in the work of our employees and in the support that takes place at the beginning of each term. Thank you for your ongoing contributions to student success and for helping to bring these values to life across our campuses. I look forward to re-joining you on campus as we dive into Winter term.
Vice-President, Students
