What my time at Western taught me about Student Support
I’ve been at Western for a long time. I am currently finishing up my fifth year on this campus. I’ve experienced online, in-person, hybrid classes and if there is only one thing I know, it is that being a student is tough. The student experience is so much more than the classes you attend, or the profs that you meet. It’s about the way that you navigate this campus, the relationships you build and the memories you make. But it’s not always easy.
If you’re an international student, all you might know is Western. You live and breathe a five mile radius, and if this place doesn’t feel like a second home, then you’re stuck.
If you’re a minority student coming to this space, it can feel isolating and like you don’t belong. Feeling supported and finding your community are essential to your student experience.
If you’re low-income, you might struggle paying rent every month or finding food. You can’t always say yes to your friends’ plans. I know firsthand how this impacted my student experience.
But most of all, school can really suck sometimes. It’s bright and sunny outside and we need to be studying for exams, locked up in Weldon. I wanted to get involved because being a student is hard. It isn’t easy for me, and I’m certain it’s not easy for you. And that’s why I came to the USC. Every day over the past two months, I’ve learned the many ways that we work to alleviate students’ burdens.
Do you need some help finding healthy food on campus? Check out Food Support Services.
You need to rant to strangers about the stress of your assignment? Talk to a Peer Support volunteer.
Are you struggling to find your people on campus? Check out our club system.
Are you worried about getting home safe after Weldon closes at 3am? Try our free exam bus shuttles.
Did you get a bad grade you don’t think is justified? Talk to the Student Appeals Support Centre.
There is a never-ending list of supports that are available to you. I know times are hard right now with exam season. But don’t forget to take care of yourself and the people around you. I personally look forward to supporting each and every one of you as your USC president. If you ever need anything, come say hi in UCC 340 or reach me at [email protected]
