Northern College Introduces Indigenous student transition program

Northern College has announced the creation of a program that they say is “uniquely designed to set first-year Indigenous students up for success as they transition into the post-secondary environment.” Running from August 26 to September 4, the Indigenous Student Transition Program is a direct response to student success metrics, reflecting Northern’s commitment to fostering [...]

Article content Northern College has announced the creation of a program that they say is “uniquely designed to set first-year Indigenous students up for success as they transition into the post-secondary environment.” Running from August 26 to September 4, the Indigenous Student Transition Program is a direct response to student success metrics, reflecting Northern’s commitment to fostering the kind of educational environment which ensures no student is left behind. Recommended Videos “For our First Nations, Inuit and Métis students, the transition from their home communities, coupled with the typical stresses of pursuing a post-secondary education can be an overwhelming culture-shock,” stated Christina Kioke, Manager of Indigenous Services and Initiatives at Northern.

“Our goal is to provide these students with the opportunity to familiarize themselves with our college, our communities and the services we can provide for them during their studies.” “Fundamentally this is an investment in setting them up for success,” added Kioke. A media release from the school states “the weeklong program includes campus and community tours, academic preparation sessions, cultural programming, and opportunities to connect with mental health, wellness and student support services – all designed to empower, inform and foster a positive and supportive environment.

“The program is carefully designed to help them connect, to make friends, to feel supported and ultimately succeed in their studies during their time with us at Northern,” stated Kioke. “This program is offered to these students at no additional cost because our goal is to provide wrap around, trauma informed, culturally safe services which promote cultural identity and belonging.” Rooted in Northern’s broader commitments to the region it serves, reflecting its unique cultural makeup and values, the program is tailored to create and foster an educational environment where students feel connected to community, supported in their identity and more likely to thrive academically, personally and culturally.

“For decades Northern College has served a region similar in size to Great Britain, both its larger centres and the smaller more remote communities which populate it,” stated Dean Lessard, Senior Vice President Academic at Northern. “We know that being present and providing opportunities may not always be enough, especially for our First Nations, Métis and Inuit students; we are invested in – and dedicated to – students success at Northern and programs like this are an excellent example of that commitment.” As Northern undertakes this program for the first time, plans for future refinement and development are rooted in active student feedback, ensuring the initiative is truly reflective of student experience and need.

“A great education is rooted support, access and understanding; in fostering an environment where students feel comfortable, empowered and ready to succeed,” added Lessard.