Spring start-of-term at NC: Orientation programming and social events

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Niagara College is gearing up for an exciting start to the Spring term. The first six weeks will feature a range of events and activities designed to help new and returning students settle into #ncLIFE, build meaningful connections, and learn about the supports available to them.

Orientation Day will take place on Friday, May 8, offering students the opportunity to explore campus, learn more about their programs, and meet the teams who will support them, ahead of classes beginning on Monday, May 11. Start-of-term programming will continue with a range of sessions and social events designed to introduce students to key resources, on-campus activities, and the broader NC community.

Employees are encouraged to review the activities planned for the first six weeks to help guide and support students as they transition into the Spring term.

Pre-Orientation Programming

April: Virtual Pre-Orientation sessions (in collaboration with International)

These free virtual sessions offer easy access for students who may not yet be in the Niagara region or are unable to attend in person. Topics include timetable selection, communication tools like Brightspace and MyNC, the NC Engage app, a student services series, and more, along with open Q&A sessions.

May 5-7: KickSTART (Welland Campus only)
Drop-in, in-person sessions designed to help students become familiar with campus, complete pre-orientation steps, and ease their transition into college life. Programming includes Brightspace/MyNC/NC Engage sessions, campus tours, Student ID pick-up, locker registration, and opportunities to explore campus spaces.

Transition Peers (Volunteer Program)
This peer-to-peer program connects new students with experienced student mentors in the two weeks leading up to the term and during the first four weeks of the semester. Transition Peers support students by answering questions, helping them navigate resources, and easing the transition into NC Life.

There are currently 14 Transition Peers confirmed for the Spring term, with recruitment and training updates planned over the summer in preparation for Fall. Upper-year students are also invited to apply to become Transition Peers by emailing Michelle Silk at [email protected].

Orientation Highlights

Welcome Hub
Students are invited to drop in for refreshments, music, photo opportunities, and the chance to meet new people while learning more about Knights Life.

  • May 8 | 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
  • Welland Campus: Learning Commons

Knights Knows Best – Ask Us Anything
Got questions? Students can visit the Wellness Lounge for support and answers on all things Niagara College.

  • May 12-13 | 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Both campuses: Wellness Lounge

Knights in the Falls Trip
A group excursion open to all new Niagara College students to explore the Niagara Falls Clifton Hill area.

  • May 9 | 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  • Niagara Falls | Transportation provided from both campuses

Student Services Fair

Students can explore on- and off-campus supports available at NC and have the opportunity to get involved and earn NC Cash.

  • May 14
  • Daniel J. Patterson Campus: Wellness Lounge | 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
  • Welland Campus: Learning Commons | 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

A full schedule of Orientation events is available on the Orientation Social Events page. All events are also posted on NC Engage, the College’s official student engagement app, where students can register, explore activities, and stay up to date on campus and community events.

Submit Your Orientation Events

Departments hosting events during the first six weeks of the Spring term are invited to submit their activities for inclusion in official Orientation listings. This helps ensure events are featured on the Orientation website and are easily accessible to students.

Teams are also encouraged to post events on NC Engage, the College’s student engagement app, to increase visibility and participation.

For submissions or inquiries, contact Marilia Welter, Student Engagement Coordinator, at [email protected].

Learn more about NC’s Orientation and start-of-term programming here.

 

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