An Incoming International Student's Guide to Western
Are you an international student about to attend Western University?
Or perhaps a domestic student who’s spent most of their lives overseas? It can be overwhelming and exciting to be arriving in a new country. But, with these tips, we’ll make sure you’re completely prepared for your first day at university!
1. The International and Exchange Center (IESC) is Your New BFF
Not only is the international and exchange center in a beautiful building, it will also be your hub for any and all information you may need.
Whether it be about immigration, financial assistance, or need some extra support, they’re here to help make your stay in Canada as easy as possible.
In addition, they put on yearlong orientation activities to help international students meet friends, get familiar with Canadian culture, and get involved on campus.
2. Pick Up Your Student ID
Your student ID is an important part of your university experience. Not only is it your access pass to your residence building but also your bus pass, gym membership, library card, meal plan, and much more! It’s almost impossible to make it through Western without it.
If you live in residence, you should receive your card when you move in. However, if you live off-campus, be sure to visit the Student Central Office or Western Student Services Building, Room 1120 to ask about receiving your card or taking a photo for it.
3. Register and Print Your University Health Insurance (UHIP)
Your UHIP is a mandatory health insurance for all international students, employees, and their dependents (spouses, children, etc.) who are not covered by Ontario health insurance (OHIP). This is important as it will allow you to have more affordable health care to maintain your health during your stay at Western.
4. Check Your Western E-mail Account Regularly
Your Western E-mail is where you’ll hear about all the new upcoming events around Western and the International and Exchange Center. It is always important to make sure you’re checking your Western E-mail to ensure you’re up to date on all financial deadlines, upcoming events, and comments from your professors.
5. Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN)
If you’re considering getting a job while living in Canada, it is required for you to receive your SIN number in order to work anywhere in the country.
To apply for a SIN number, make sure to go to a Service Canada Centre. The best part is, it’s free to apply! The Service Canada Centre is located at 457 Richmond St, N6A, 3E3.
6. Apply for International Student Orientation
If you’re feeling uncomfortable about your arrival to Canada or just have questions, the international student orientation is a must!
During orientation, you’ll focus on topics such as Canadian slang, academic values, health care, and cultural and social adjustment.
In addition, international student orientation is the perfect way for incoming undergraduate and graduate students to meet IESC staff, volunteers, and other incoming international students.
7. Sign Up for a Peer Guide
A peer guide is a great way to make a smooth transition into your time here at Western and Canada. Their role is to make sure you’re fully prepared to enjoy your time at Western and make sure you’re comfortable.
They can help with any questions you have from what to wear in the winter, to issues with professors, to housing problems. A peer guide is a great way to come to Western feeling like you already have a friend and support system!
8. Sign Up for English Conversation Program
Trying to improve your English skills? If English is your second language and you’re looking for a way to improve your conversational skills, this is a great option for you.
During your time in the program, you will converse with other students for two hours once a week for eight weeks while a trained facilitator helps engage yourself and others in informal conversation.
Not only is this an amazing resource to improve your English skills, but it is also a great way to make friends.
Liked these tips? Follow us on Instagram for more tips on how to best #studywize. instagram.com/wizeprep
Struggling to navigate through University? Check out our video on the 5 apps that can help you succeed!
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