By Trevor Knapaysweet [1]
(Belleville) – A unique open house to provide resources for students to succeed this academic year took place on Sept. 12 at the Shark Tank Pub.
A Services Fair was held by Loyalist College’s Student Life & Engagement in the Shark Tank Pub on Sept. 12 to introduce internal and external services available to students.
The fair familiarizes first-year students with the support systems they can access to maximize their time at Loyalist College. Students can achieve a healthy balance between academics and personal lives. It also reminds students these supports are available year-round to enhance their experience both on and off campus.
Wellness Coordinator for Student Experience & Engagement Ryan Stoness said post-secondary isn’t only meant for academics. It is a time to explore and discover new things, he said.
“The first thing I would recommend to students is just to engage with the things they’re most interested in and see value in,” he said.
Stoness is responsible for operating the Services Fair and encourages students to reach out to everyone on campus. This includes students or professors.
Oliva Millard, Manager of Student Experience & Engagement, said the services also benefit the college. It assists the teachers and staff in understanding what services are commonly used and what needs improvement.
An example of an underutilized service is the athletics department, she said.
“You (students) get a free fitness gym membership included with your ancillary fees,” she said. “As well as campus rec, there is daily programming – outside, inside, morning, night. You don’t have to be a sports specialist; just come have fun.”