The hitchhiker's guide to the Concordia galaxy
Setting foot on campus, students may wonder how to voice their opinions, share comments or ask questions. Melissa Fuller believes Concordia has a treasure chest of opportunities and services for students.
“Concordia University and the Concordia Student Union (CSU) offer services that empower students. After receiving the detailed help they require, students feel like they can handle whatever is heading their way,” says Fuller who is Vice-President, Services and Loyola, for the CSU. She shares some tips to help students improve their university experience.
Quick tips – pick up your ID card
The first thing on the to-do list is to pick up a student ID card at the Birks Student Service Centre, located in the J.W. McConnell Library Building (1400 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W.).
Because so many students seek ID cards at the beginning of each year, Birks staff will be set up in the lobby of the J.W. McConnell Library Building on weekdays from Monday, August 29 to Friday, September 16, from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. to create ID cards. Be sure to bring the required information, available on the Birks site. Students must be registered for 48 hours before an ID card may be obtained. “The ID card opens the door to many great things at Concordia, like the shuttle bus service,” says Fuller.
The shuttle bus service is a free 20-minute ride between the Loyola and Sir George Williams campuses. The only requirement is an ID card. “I love the shuttle bus, not only because it provides easy access to both campuses but it’s also a great place to meet new people,” she adds.
Students also need to get into the habit of accessing the MyConcordia portal because it helps students stay organized. “The portal is the navigation system through Concordia. You check it to know where classes are being held, what books need to be bought, or how to purchase a lock,” explains Fuller.
Pick up a handbook
The journey through Concordia University begins with another useful tool — the annual CSU handbook agenda. The resource includes a first-year student survival guide, top 10 tips for getting involved on campus, and contact information for services, Faculties and associations. “This handbook is the hitchhiker’s guide to the Concordia galaxy. It has saved me countless times throughout my university life,” says Fuller.
The handbooks are distributed beginning the first week of September and are free of charge to students with a valid Concordia ID card. They are available at the CSU office on the Sir George Williams Campus, located on the seventh floor of the Henry F. Hall Building, or at the HIVE cafeteria on the Loyola Campus (Room 115, SC Building, 7141 Sherbrooke St. W.).
CSU Orientation
CSU will be holding orientation events. Check their website for more details.
Use your HOJO
The Housing and Job Bank (HOJO) offers students various workshops on tenant and working rights, apartment hunting and room-mate conflict prevention and offers a job and apartment search with its online classifieds.
“From personal experience, HOJO has saved my life. I was having problems with my landlord and this service helped me find a solution by equipping me with knowledge on my rights,” says Fuller, who urges students to take advantage of this service. “The staff members are friendly and will listen to any questions, problems or concerns a student has and will go above and beyond to help.”
HOJO is located in Room H-711, Henry F. Hall Building (1455 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W.).
Become a volunteer
“I know from experience that the best way to make the most out of university is through being active and getting involved,” recounts Fuller. The CSU I Volunteer program provides students with the opportunity to take their education out of the classroom and into the world of giving and sharing.
“Open your eyes around campus, get involved and be proactive. It doesn’t mean to go crazy and overwhelmed in activities, but build on doing one positive action at a time,” said Fuller who invites student to join the program by applying online.
“Concordia University is way of life,” says Fuller, “so live it. Pick up the handbook and read. Start checking out all the services and opportunities available. “
David Adelman is a journalism student and summer intern for Concordia’s University Communications Services.
Related links:
• Concordia Student Union
• Birks Student Service Centre, including information on obtaining student ID cards
• More tips for incoming students
• Housing and Job Bank
• Concordia Shuttle Bus
• CSU I Volunteer program
• MyConcordia portal