Brandon University offers a variety of services for students during their time at the University. This article will cover a few of those services:
Counselling: Brandon University has two counsellors, Sherry Sawatzky-Dyck who can be reached at 204-727-7391 or sawatzkydycks@brandonu.ca and Marsha Harris who can be reached at 204-727-9779 or harrism@brandonu.ca. Some of the “wellness topics” they cover are things like stress, crisis response, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, sexual assault, eating problems and sleep. The use of these services while you are a student is free. There are also a few wellness workshops that run through the year, such as a Mental Health Toolbox workshop and a Mind Over Mood Anxiety Workshop. More details on the counselling services BU offers and the workshops can be found on BU’s website: https://www.brandonu.ca/personal-counselling/
Academic Advising: Academic advising is mandatory for new students at Brandon University and suggested for all students to make sure they stay on track and take all of the courses they need to graduate. Academic advisors will not only make sure you have all of your required courses but can also help you select important courses for if you wanted to go on to get another degree. Academic advising is located in room 102, of the A. E. McKenzie Building.
Indigenous Peoples’ Centre: The Indigenous Peoples’ Centre offers academic support, transition supports, cultural and spiritual support including events like the Graduation Pow Wow, as well as personal and social support. They have computer access, free soup on certain days of the week, as well as Knowledge Keepers. The IPC is a safe space for students of all backgrounds to come and relax or find support. The office is located between the Library and Student Services.
Career Planning and Placement: The Career Planning and Placement office offers a variety of services to students on campus. They have a “jobs board,” hold career fairs, offer assistance with resume writing and hold workshops throughout the year. This is a great resource if you are someone who is still undecided on their major as well as they can talk with you about career goals and what degree might put you on the right track. The Career Planning and Placement office is located in room 115 in the A. E. McKenzie Building.
The Office of International Activities: This office is a support for international students at Brandon University. They offer information for international students, Canadian students, exchange opportunities and information about recruitment agents and representatives. This office is located on the basement of McMaster Hall.
Student Accessibility Services: Student Accessibility Services works with students to make their university experience inclusive. They work with people with different types of disabilities or who face academic challenges. Any student wishing to seek academic accommodation are encouraged to reach out the Student Accessibility Services office which is located in room 106 of the A. E. McKenzie Building.
Brandon University Students’ Union: BUSU is located in the Knowles Douglas Building. They offer many services such as printing, the Paw Pass (a local discount system for students), a food bank, advocacy, room bookings, and much more! They also hold various events through the year, including a Clubs Day at the start of both terms that encourages students to get out there and meet new people. Pop up to the BUSU office to meet the team and learn more about what they can do for you.
Healthy Living Centre: BU students get a gym membership at the Healthy Living Centre for free (and by free, I mean it is included in your tuition). Take advantage of this service by popping over to the front desk of the HLC and asking them to help you get set up to use the gym.
This is just a snapshot of the services offered at BU. There are workshops available throughout the year alongside many of these services. Visit the BU website to learn more about these services that are available to you as a student here at BU and have a great academic year!