New Student Orientation

Q: Is there a wellness clinic on campus? 

A: Yes! We have a team of registered nurses, doctors, and counsellors who make your wellness and wellbeing their priority.

Medical services 

Our wellness care team of registered nurses, doctors and are here to provide services that positively influence your wellness and well-being. We can also connect you to the most appropriate support services. Our services include, but are not limited to, doctor clinics, immunizations, sexual wellness and first aid. And our registered nurses are available to answer your wellness and well-being concerns and questions, and connect you to resources both on and off campus. 

Counselling services 

Our Counselling Services offer a variety of services to help you meet the challenges of achieving your personal, professional and academic potential. The primary form of support is personal counselling, which provides an opportunity to work collaboratively with a professional counsellor to solve personal issues. Counselling workshops and groups will also be offered throughout the school year.

Counselling can be sought for many reasons, including: 

• managing stress/distress
• mental wellness concerns (like anxiety or depression) 
• suicidal thoughts 
• substance use/addiction 
• relationship stress 
• career and academic issues 
• any other personal issues you may be facing 

To set up an appointment or for more information email [email protected].

Gender Based and Sexual Violence Support

Wellness Services is committed to providing a safe space for disclosures and support for anyone who has experienced gender based and sexual violence.  To connect with supports or information for gender based and sexual violence contact [email protected]  

Q: Is there an inclusive space or club for LGBTQ+ students and employees on campus?

A: Yes! Stop by to visit our Pride Lounge, located in AN1717.

Lethbridge College’s Pride Lounge is an important resource for college students who may identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, and/or any of the other diverse identities that make up our community. This space is facilitated by the Wellness Services office and will offer educational programming and access to resources of interest, as well as a physical space for students and staff to meet and socialize with each other. As advocates for gender and sexual diversity, we are committed to providing LGBTQ+ students a safe and supportive campus, absent of discrimination, where the expression of one’s gender and sexual identity is welcomed and respected.

All students who identify as LGBTQ+ and allies are welcome to join in at any time. Questions about the club or an activity? Feel free to drop by the Pride Lounge in AN1717 for more information.

In support of creating a more inclusive and accessible campus, Lethbridge College is committed to providing bathrooms for all genders. View a map of gender neutral bathrooms on campus.

Q: How can I get involved in LGBTQ+ initiatives on campus?

A: There are lots of ways to get involved, and the student activities calendar is always being updated. Stop by the LGBTQ+ Pride Lounge in AN1717 for a list of events that you can be involved in.

If you are interested in enhancing the voice of LGBTQ+ students on campus, you can ratify a club with the Lethbridge College Students’ Association (LCSA). By creating an LCSA club you are accessing all the LCSA resources to support your initiatives, create a fun and safe place and hosts social events.

To learn more about creating a club, or joining an existing club, please visit the LCSA website for more information.

Q: How can I make sure my instructors are aware of my preferred name and pronouns?

A: Lethbridge College is committed to fostering an environment of inclusiveness and supporting students' preferred form of self-identification. Our faculty and staff members understand that allowing individuals the freedom to define their own identity, including the way in which they would like others to refer to them, is a vital component of respecting an individual’s gender identity.

Your instructors want all students to feel comfortable in their classrooms, and using your preferred pronouns is one way they can signal their respect and support. We understand that it may be difficult to discuss your gender pronouns with someone new. But our instructors are approachable and appreciate knowing your preferences. We encourage you to contact your instructors before your first day of class and ask them to call you by your preferred name and pronouns.

If you need support with this, please contact the LGBTQ+ faculty co-chair and they will be happy to liaise with you and your instructors. You can also use this text as a template for sending an email to your professors if you are looking for help getting started.

Dear [instructor’s name],

My name is [preferred name], and I will be attending your course, [name of course], on [days] at [time] this [term]. My name will probably show up on your roster as [birth name], but I would prefer to go by [preferred name here] and to be referred to with [preferred] pronouns. I would appreciate it if you called me [preferred name] in class.

Thank you for your understanding, and I look forward to starting your course next week.

Sincerely,

[Preferred name]

Q: I studied on campus later than I planned. Is there anyone who can make sure I get to my car safely? 

A:  Just contact Security. Security personnel are available to accompany you to and from anywhere on campus. This service is available throughout the year. Please contact them at 403-320-3206 for assistance. Or you could consider “Friend Walk” on the LC Alert app. Have a friend or family member virtually follow you home.

And if you have any other questions about safety or security on campus, feel free to stop by CE1301 and ask.  

Q: Do you offer any additional support for Indigenous students?  

A: Lethbridge College is proud to provide assistance to our First Nations, Métis and Inuit students – from prospective students to alumni – in achieving their career and personal goals.  

Through our Circle of Services, you can access: 

• information on programs, admissions, registration and study skills
• assistance with Indigenous funding, awards and scholarships 
• personal, cultural, academic and career advising 
• social, educational, cultural and sporting events 

If you are considering coming to Lethbridge College, be assured that you’ll be supported throughout the process by our Indigenous recruiter, our Indigenous academic and career advisor, our Indigenous student advisor, our Indigenous Cultural Support program, our Indigenous Student Advisory Council and our FNMI Career Pathways program, and that you can find friends and support in our Indigenous Services and Student Lounge.  

Situated on traditional Blackfoot territory, Lethbridge College recognizes and celebrates the rich heritage and culture of the Blackfoot people. Our Aboriginal Framework policy reads: The Blackfoot people welcome Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples to share in their rich heritage and culture. Lethbridge College is dedicated to providing high-quality education and support services with close links to the community through partnerships and being a fully engaged member of the local community. 

Discover all that Lethbridge College has to offer our Indigenous students in the FNMI viewbook, and contact us by email or at 1-800-572-0103 ext. 3322 if you have any questions. 

Q: Who can I talk to about financial aid? 

A: The Student Awards and Financial Aid office is your first stop for information about student loans, awards and scholarships, and budgeting for school. 

There are a few different ways to access funds to help pay for your post-secondary education: 

• Student loans: There are many upsides to borrowing from the government but keep in mind that you must repay your loans (interest is currently 0 for federal loans) with interest after you graduate. Consider creating a budget to determine how much funding you may require and, if it makes sense to you, look into other options, such as working part-time or reducing your spending. Try to eliminate debt prior to attending as servicing preexisting debt while in school is likely to impede your success.
  
  Grants: Similar to awards and scholarships, grants do not need to be paid back. The Foundation Learning Assistance program offers grants for eligible academic upgrading and ESL students while federal and provincial governments may automatically apply grants to your student loan, reducing the amount you owe. To qualify for these post-secondary grants you must apply through the student loan application process. Grant eligibility is related to family income.
   
• Awards and scholarships: Scholarships are non-repayable of course. You can’t assume that you will get them but applying costs nothing and takes little time. To apply for Lethbridge College awards, all you have to do is fill out one online application. Some awards may have additional requirements, such as writing an essay or creating a video. The Awards Application opens on March 1 every year.
   

Stop by our offices at PA1130, call us at 403-320-3372 or email us for more information. 

Q: What kind of fitness and workout opportunities are there for students? 

A: Open to all students as well as staff and the community, our modern facilities have something for people of all ages, interests and abilities. 

The Val Matteotti gymnasium is comprised of three full-size gymnasiums and seats up to 2,000 people. It’s the heart of Recreation Services and is home to major collegiate and community sporting events throughout the year. We also have a fitness centre, two international squash courts, two interchangeable racquetball/squash courts, a fitness-testing centre, a dance studio and steam rooms. 

All of this and more is available to you. So what are you waiting for? Get on the road to good health and purchase your membership today. 

Our services 

From classes to camps to special events, we offer a variety of options for the whole family, including personal training, nutrition and training, squash lessons, facility rentals, and holiday specials. Find out all of the Recreation Services details you need online.  

Contact us 

• Squash/racquetball court: 403-382-6903
• Gymnasium/dance studio: 403-320-3286 
• Email: [email protected] 

Hours 

• Regular hours
  • Monday – Friday 6 a.m. – 10 p.m. 
  • Saturday – Sunday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 
• Holiday hours: Closed Stat Holidays.
• Spring and summer hours 
  • End of May to end of August: Monday – Thursday 6 a.m. – 10 p.m. 
  • Friday 6 a.m. – 8 p.m. 
  • Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 

Q:  Where do I go if I need someone to help me with a problem on my college computer? Is there anyone on campus who can help me with my technology woes? 

A: The talented team in ITS is standing by, ready to help you with any of your technology needs.  

Our Help Desk analysts and first response technicians are dedicated to assisting you with any of your college technology needs. We provide the following support services: 

• computer hardware/software support 
• user account support 
• email account support 
• wireless and network support 
• phone support 
• lab support 
• printing assistance 
• training 
• audio/visual support 

We are able to solve most issues over the phone; give us a call at 403-320-3333. If we can’t solve your issue over the phone, it will be assigned to the appropriate area and treated as a work order. A first response technician will be dispatched to assist you. 

You can contact the Help Desk in person in TE2208, by calling 403-320-3333 or by emailing [email protected]. They work from 7:30am - 4:30pm Monday through Friday.

Q: If I need a little extra help with my studies, will there be a place I can go for that extra help?  

A: Check out the Learning Café, Lethbridge College’s learning assistance centre. Whatever your skill level or program, we can help you develop the skills, strategies and behaviours needed to succeed in your coursework and professional life. Our qualified team of academic strategists and peer tutors provides a variety of academic services from workshops and presentations to face-to-face and online appointments. 

Academic skills support 

We can all benefit from a little expert advice from time to time. You can access face-to-face academic skills support from our academic strategists on a drop-in or appointment basis. Or, if you don’t have time to stop by the Learning Café, phone or online appointments may be available. Our academic strategists can assist with writing, research and APA documentation; math, sciences and basic computer skills; Canvas and online learning skills; group work; and presentation skills. 

Peer tutoring 

If you are experiencing difficulties with specialized course content not typically supported by our academic strategists, peer tutoring might just be the answer for you. We provide free one-on-one and small group learning assistance to students in credit courses at the Lethbridge campus.  

Study skills 

Set yourself up for success with solid study skills. We offer individual appointments, workshops and class presentations on a variety of topics, including effective study practices, test taking, note taking, academic reading, time management and online learning skills.

Online resources 

Can’t come into the Learning Café? No problem. We know students are extremely busy or studying elsewhere, so we started the eLearning Café. You can access online learning resources related to elearning and technology, writing and research, math and science, and study skills. You can even request online feedback for a written assignment.  

For any other information, stop by CE1340 (the southwest section of the library), call us at 403-382-6952 or send us an email. 

Q: Are you looking for help reaching your academic goals?

A: The best people to talk to work in our Academic Advising department. They work to support you and all college students as they complete their journey from applicant to graduate. They are experts at helping you develop your skills as a student and make the appropriate decisions to pursue your career and academic goals.

They can help you:

• create an academic plan
• access support services
• navigate college policies and procedures

Unsure of your program choice?

Speak with one of our advisors. They can help you get a good sense of what strengths and skills you already have and what careers would fit best with your interests. Then they can help connect you with the program or apprenticeship that is best for you.

You can also speak with an academic advisor about your educational path and which courses you will need. You can book your appointment with one of our advisors by calling 403-320-3366 by stopping by PA1130 (across from the bookstore).

Connect with an advisor

There are a few different ways you can connect with one of our advisors.

• 30-minute appointment: You can schedule a 30-minute appointment by stopping by PA1130 (across from the bookstore) or calling 403-320-3202 ext. 4905.
• ​​​​​​Drop-in advising: Please visit the Career and Academic Advising webpage to see when the next drop-in period is.

Q: How do I get a student loan? 

A: The Student Awards and Financial Aid office is your first stop for information about student loans.  

Student loans enable many Canadians to attend post-secondary school. There are many upsides to borrowing from the government, including interest-free status while in school, income tax deductions on repayment, repayment assistance and that some of your assessment may be covered by grants (funds that you don’t have to repay). 

However, student loans are still a loan and you will need to repay the money. It is preferable to draw on other resources, such as an RESP, if they are available. But if such resources are not available, student loans are a smart alternative for investing in your future. 

Stop by our offices at PA1130, call us at 403-320-3372 or email us for additional help.  

Q: Is there a place to go for support if you have a learning disability, physical disability, chronic medical condition or other issue that affects your learning? 

A: Yes! The friendly and knowledgeable people in our Accessibility Services office can arrange disability services that meet your needs. We provide flexible, innovative and collaborative support for the success of diverse learners while advancing a culture of universal teaching and learning.  

We are able to support prospective and current students with disabilities, including: 

• learning disabilities (e.g. math, reading, writing, processing)
• developmental disabilities (e.g. fetal alcohol effect and autism spectrum) 
• ADHD – inattentive type (formerly known as ADD) 
• sensory impairments (e.g. deaf/hard-of-hearing, blind/partially sighted) 
• physical disabilities 
• mental health impacts 
• chronic medical conditions 
• temporary mobility issues (e.g. broken arm) 

We know you're unique. That's why we work with you to create your own pathway to academic success. Our key supports include: 

• disability advising
• review of disability-related history and documentation 
• disability-related funding applications 
• requests for academic accommodations, including referrals to other campus services or community agencies; accommodated testing or additional support (such as tutoring, strategies and assistive technology). 

For more information on services for students with disabilities, please stop by CE1340, call us at 403-320-3202 ext. 5400 or send us an email. We look forward to working with you.  

For most students, registration is automatic. Once you have accepted your offer of admission to a program, registration personnel will register you into your core courses. An email will be sent to your college email account to let you know when this has been completed. You can check your email and schedule by logging into Self Service from our website.

The following exceptions apply:

• Upgrading students must register with an advisor.
• ESL students will be registered by the ESL program.
• Distance Learning, and Open Studies students will be emailed instructions on how to self-register online

You can make changes to your schedule (add/drop classes) in these four ways.

• Log into Self Service for students and select Student Planning under the Academics tab
• • You can use the online registration guide for help, or watch our registration video
• Email an Add/Drop form to [email protected].
• Advisors can help you with choosing classes, working out a schedule and lots more. Any student who wishes to register in an upgrading course must work with an advisor.

To view your schedule, you can log into Self Service for students and select Student Planning under the Academics tab.