By Jennifer Siviero
Student life is a balancing act. Often times, students struggle to find a balance between work, social life, and academics.
That is why Algonquin provides many services and support to students who may be looking for extra help in perusing their academic goals throughout the school year.
The Algonquin College Student Services Welcome Centre can be found on the third floor of the Student Commons and is a personalized, central point of contact that connects students to many of the services offered on campus including: The Library, Student Learning Centre, ACHub, Counseling Services, Mamidosewin Centre for aboriginal students, and the Centre for Students with Disabilities (CSD).
“(Student Services) always has professionals on hand to help students with specific issues that they are facing”, said Jeff Agate, Manager of Counseling and Aboriginal Services. “Whether its personal performance, academic performance, career development, employment search, whatever it is that they are looking for.”
There are an abundance of services available to students on campus and Agate encourages students to use these services to their advantage. In particular, Agate emphasized The Library as being one of the most popular spots on campus for students and is home to a wide arrange of services provided in partnership with the Student Learning Centre.
“The Library offers not just a collection of resources, but also services to assist students with their academic skills,” said Agate. ”They have coaching for english, math and computer skills, as well as instruction and workshops on research, and peer tutoring.”
In addition to the Library, students can visit the new ACHub on the second floor of the Student Commons. The ACHub is a space designed to encourage student engagement and is a source for information, events, and workshops. Some workshops are offered in partnership with Counseling Services, which address student needs such as time management skills, study skills, and how to working effectively in groups.
As well, certain services, including the Mamidosewin Centre and the CSD, are available to specific populations to provide support to those with academic concerns, as well as, those looking to enhance their college experience.
“I used CSD for examination accommodations and advice on how to study,” said Nathalie Rigg, third year nursing student. “They are factual, helpful and positive”.
Even with all of the services available on campus, sometimes students question where to start.
Student Services introduced the Here 2 Help campaign at the beginning of the 2014-2015 academic years to connect new and returning student to services available on campus.
“The idea behind it is that every employee at the college should be available to help any student get started with whatever issue, whatever question they have,” said Agate. “The answer is simple, just ask.”