Student participants in the Science Mentors program, pictured on the University of Alberta campus. While physical distancing will make our community look a little different this year, Faculty of Science students and faculty are rising to the challenge to make new and returning students feel welcome and connected.
As summer arrives at the University of Alberta, instructors in the Faculty of Science are busy preparing for Fall 2020 to ensure high-quality remote delivery of upcoming courses and a sense of community with their classes. But the strong community in the Faculty—a key part of the university experience for students—doesn’t come from instructors alone, it’s also built by fellow students like those in the Science Mentorship program.
The Science Mentor Program gives science students an opportunity to meet with a senior student who has volunteered to offer one-on-one support during the Fall semester. And while this year’s physical distancing requirements pose some new challenges, our Science Mentors are committed to ensuring that their fellow students feel welcomed and engaged as they begin their post-secondary journeys in the Faculty of Science.
Join us in hearing from our Science Mentors on how they’ll be building community online in Fall 2020, and their messages for new and returning students:
Daniel DaRosa, Honours Psychology
How are you planning to support your fellow students remotely in the fall?
I'm planning to make myself available for Zoom calls, emails or texts for all of my mentees and mentors who might have questions. I'm going to try and make everything as normal as possible and ensure that I'm there for any student who might need me!
Any other messages of encouragement for new and returning students?
Each day that you study and work from home, you are not only keeping everyone else safe, but you are also getting one day closer to things returning to normal, as well as graduating! Keep your head up and give it your all!
Julia Craig, Neuroscience
How are you planning to support your fellow students remotely in the fall?
We have an online group chat that we regularly connect in allowing us to keep up to date with each other. I also plan on having regular online meetings with my mentors. During these meetings I hope to spend the first few minutes just talking with each other or playing games that we can connect. Lastly, I always try to let my mentors know that they can come to me about anything and we can have an open conversation and work together to solve the problem.
Any other messages of encouragement for new and returning students?
The University of Alberta and the Faculty of Science is a wonderful community where people are friendly and try to support you! Even though it’s online, I am very confident they will do everything they can to make Fall 2020 the best experience it can be. University is such a great time of personal growth and discovery—be open and stay positive about the future and you’ll have a great year!
Charlotte Logan, Biological Sciences
What are you most looking forward to for the fall?
Taking on a new challenge! I know lots of students may not be used to online classes and a modified learning environment, but it can still be embraced. Personally, I'm looking forward to adjusting to a full semester that takes place mostly online, and with that, finding new ways to succeed. Maybe online classes mean you can spend more time with family, less time commuting to school, or working and volunteering when you prefer. Instead of focusing on the possible drawbacks, I'm trying to focus on the fact that we are students who are facing something that has never happened in modern times and our ability to respond and adapt with grace, success, and flexibility is remarkable.
Any other messages of encouragement for new and returning students?
This new school year will be tough—but that's what makes it all the more rewarding. As university students, we are a distinct community that understands how hard one has to work on a daily basis to achieve one's goals. This fall is no different; while we may be faced with different challenges, we will be adapting and facing changes gracefully as the smart and successful individuals we strive to be. I think we all need to trust ourselves and continue to work extremely hard, just as we know how to. Be kind to yourself, take time for self-care, stay connected with family, friends, and your communities, and don't be afraid to ask for help.
Elena Anderson, Biochemistry
How are you planning to support your fellow students remotely in the fall?
Connecting with fellow students in the faculty, or just in my classes is the main form of support I plan on taking. I think taking that first step of reaching out is a great way to connect with people, eventually leading to support. Whether this is just suggesting a group chat with others in the class or making smaller study groups—ideally, recognizing that everybody is adapting to remote delivery, offering a solution to help people make friends, and curating a sense of campus community in an online form.
Any other messages of encouragement for new and returning students?
A crucial trait I think we’ve all learned, whether it be through this pandemic, or through our time as students, is the importance of perseverance. It can be challenging to learn course material at home, but it won’t be like this forever. Stick with it, apply yourself, and make it through this year! Better times will come.
Robert Joseph, Honors Applied Mathematics and Computing Science
In what ways have you experienced the sense of community in the Faculty of Science?
The Faculty of Science has always been a great support and has given us a lot of support. Ever since I came to the University of Alberta, there have been plenty of opportunities to engage with the community—such as the Student Internship Program and Undergraduate Research Initiative—and also plenty of clubs relating to the Faculty of Science; the list goes on. Especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, the support has been great. I have always felt welcomed and the transition from high school to university has been really smooth thanks to all the support from the Faculty. So in a way, I really would like to give back to new students.
Any other messages of encouragement for new and returning students?
Take risks, explore clubs, and meet people at your own pace. I understand social anxiety in new settings—but even talking to the person beside you in class for help can be a conversation starter. The university has a diverse student group. Talk to your professors—they really are there for you and can help you a lot. Just take it one day at a time. Stay safe and practice physical distancing!
Learn more about how the University of Alberta is preparing to engage students for September and beyond on our Fall 2020 hub.
Students, faculty, and staff can stay up-to-date with the latest information on COVID-19 for the campus community online.