International Student Relations

Email: internationalrep@uvss.ca

Harshita Sankar, Director of International Student Relations

Hi everyone! My name is Harshita and I am a third-year computer science student. Born in India and raised in Japan, I aim to use my diverse experiences to improve your university life in Canada as your Director of International Student Relations. Coming to Canada solo in 2022, I have firsthand experience of (unfortunately) many common issues international students face such as culture shock, housing, work, visa, food insecurity, loneliness, etc. Therefore, I aim to bring awareness of the many helpful on-campus resources and bring visibility to international culture and talent through many fun events!

I strive to advocate for improving the international student life at UVic while potentially implementing more resources students would want to see on campus. So I would like to hear from you all! I love meeting new people and would love to hear your perspectives. If you have any questions, concerns, suggestions, or simply someone to talk to, please feel free to reach out, send me an email, or even drop by the SUB for a quick chat 🙂

Resources Around Campus for International Students

Global Community

Drowning in homesickness or finding it challenging to start new friendships? Look no further than the Uvic Global Community (GC)! Tailored to cater to both international and domestic students, GC provides a space for creating intercultural bonds, sharing perspectives, and celebrating diversity. Immerse yourself in GC’s regular social events, explore the option of signing-up for conversation partners and mentorship programs, or seize the chance to participate in rewarding volunteer opportunities. Your journey to a more enriched and connected university experience starts with GC!

International Centre for Students (ICS)

The International Centre for Students (ICS) is your one-stop shop for all international student related concerns! Reach out to anyone from the ICS team or drop by the ICS at the Jamie Cassels Centre for any queries about immigration, health insurance, and more. Discover invaluable info about exchange, funding, and volunteer opportunities as well. From the most intricate concerns to the simplest queries, the dedicated and friendly ICS team stands ready to extend their assistance and support!

Multifaith Centre

The Multifaith Centre provides a safe haven for spiritual and religious practices and a guiding hand in your spiritual journey. Connect with a spiritual care provider or visit the Multifaith Centre right beside the Finnerty Gardens—perhaps even take a serene stroll in nature’s embrace. Don’t forget to check their web page regularly to find out about upcoming events including the much-loved pet cafes! (I know how much you miss your pet back home.)

Getting Settled  – the basics on living in Victoria, creating community, and having new experiences

  • Identification Cards (ONECard, BC Service Card, ID, etc.)
  • Open up a bank account
  • Set up your phone service provider and plan
  • Wireless internet
  • International Centre for Students (ICS) in Jamie Cassels Centre B202D
  • Ombudspersons
    • The Office of the Ombudsperson is an independent, impartial and confidential resource for fairness. The Office provides undergraduate and graduate students with information about their rights and responsibilities, and helps them navigate UVic regulations and procedures.
  • Free Tax Clinic
    • Doing your taxes can be stressful. That’s why student volunteers from the Gustavson School of Business at UVic offer free support to file your taxes. It’s high in demand so make sure to register as early as possible!
  • Ombudspersons
    • They offer confidential guidance on navigating academic challenges, including understanding probationary status and developing strategies for improvement.
    • They can also help clarify university policies, connect you with resources for academic support, and advocate for fair treatment during this period.
  • Centre for Academic Communication (CAC)
    • Aims to improve students’ writing, speaking, and critical thinking skills to succeed in their academic endeavours. 
    • Provides workshops, individual consultations, and online resources to assist students in developing their communication abilities for assignments, such as essays, reports, and presentations.
  • Centre for Accessible Learning (CAL)
    • Provides support and accommodations such as exam accommodations, assistive technology, and alternative format materials for students with disabilities
  • Community Engaged Learning (CEL)
    • Offers students the opportunity to apply classroom learning to real-world situations through community partnerships.
  • English Language Centre (ELC)
    • Provides English language programs for students seeking to improve their language skills for academic, professional, or personal development.
  • UVic Libraries Student Support
    • UVic’s Library offers additional academic support for international students.

Part-time/career: 

  • Work Study
    • Provides eligible students with the opportunity to work part-time on campus or with approved off-campus employers. 
    • Offers valuable work experience related to students’ field of study while helping them finance their education. 
  • Work in the SUB
  • Work Off-Campus
  • Career Services
    • Offers students and alumni resume and cover letter assistance, interview preparation, job search strategies, and career exploration. 
    • Organizes career fairs, workshops, and networking events to connect students with employers and alumni.
  • Co-operative Education

On Campus: 

Off Campus: 

  • Hope for Wellness: 1-(855)-242-3310
    • Indigenous helpline that is monitored 24/7. Experienced and culturally competent Helpline
      counsellors can help if you want to talk, are distressed, have strong emotional reactions or
      are triggered by painful memories. Services available in Cree, Ojibway and Inuktitut upon
      request
  • Healing in Colour
    • Provides therapy services for Black, Indigenous, and people of colour and well as a
      directory of Black, Indigenous, therapists of colour.
  • Black Youth Helpline: 1-(833)-294-8650
    • Multicultural youth helpline that is available 6am-7pm daily. Available to talk to any child to
      help understand and address the root cause of challenges faced by children, youth and
      families.
  • The Support Network for Indigenous Women, Women of Colour
    • Provides free and sliding-scale therapy sessions for low-income racialized women

Free Holiday Dinners for International Students

Don’t have plans for the holidays? Don’t worry! Here’s a list of upcoming dinners in Victoria!

Association & Event  When  Where  Additional Information 
Fernwood Community Centre 

Community Holiday Dinner

 Date: December 8th

Time: 5:30-8pm

 Address: 1240 Gladstone St

Phone number: (250) 381-1552

 No need to register!
The Mustard Seed 

Free Dinner with Live Music

 Date(s): December 14th & 28th Address: 625 Queens Ave

Phone number: (250) 953-1575

 Every Friday they also host dinner & a movie night! All year round!
Our Place 

Christmas Lunch

 Date: December 17th

Time: 11:30am – 1:30pm

 Address: 919 Pandora

Phone number: (250) 388-7112
Alliance Club Youth Empowerment Society 

Turkey Dinner & Gifts

 Date: December 19th

Time: 3-5pm

 Address: 533 Yates St, Back-Alley Entrance

Phone number: (250) 383-3514

 Ages 13 to 19
Rainbow Kitchen 

Turkey, Stuffing, Potato, and Veggies

 Date: December 20th

Time: 12-1pm

 Address: 500 Admirals St

Phone number: (250) 384-2069
Our Place 

Gordy Dodd’s Annual Christmas Dinner

 Date: December 20th

Time: 4-6pm

 Address: 919 Pandora

Phone number: (250) 388-7112
The Soup Kitchen

Christmas Soup

 Date: December 25th

Time: 8-10am

 Address: 740 View St

Phone number: (778) 440-7687
Annual Recovery Christmas Dinner

Turkey buffet, coffee, dessert, and stockings

 Date: December 25th

Time: 12-2pm

 Address: St Andrews Kirk Hall, Kirk Hall Entrance, 680 Courtenay St (Recovery Meeting Upstairs)

Phone number: (250) 384-5734

 Everyone is Welcome

ADVOCACY WINS FROM PREVIOUS YEARS

UVSS win: International student work study budget!

Following the previous major win in international student advocacy regarding international bursaries, UVic has committed to increase the International Work Study budget by $200,000 due to further review. International Work Study applications and questions regarding eligibility can be inquired about by emailing wstudy@uvic.ca.

UVic page about the work study program

International Student Fee Lobbying Effort

The UVSS has long been concerned with student affordability and tuition fees. Over the last 10 years, international tuition at UVic has increased by 151%.

On January 21st, Former UVSS Director of International Student Relations, Dipayan Nag, submitted a letter to UVic’s Board of Governors on behalf of more than 2,000 international undergraduate students regarding international student tuition fees asking the BoG to (1) freeze international tuition fees for the coming year, and (2) limit the annual tuition increase to 2% for international students for at least the next two years. The letter also includes testimonials from international students themselves.

If you have any questions or would like to join the effort, email internationalrep@uvss.ca 

UVic page about International Bursaries

UVSS win: International student bursaries!

Major win in international student advocacy! In response to the lobbying efforts, led by Sarina, UVSS Director for Outreach/Uni Relations and Dipayan, UVSS Director of International Student Relations, UVic has committed to increase the International Bursary by $200K. UVic is looking to further review and increase support for International work-study program! We will keep you updated as we get more information.

International Bursary applications can be inquired about by emailing finaid@uvic.ca.

Read UVSS’s letter to UVic