Peer Helper Program

The Peer Helper Program provides volunteer leadership opportunities for continuing students who are motivated to support new international students and contribute to making VIU's Nanaimo campus a vibrant, inclusive, and welcoming place for everyone.

Role of Peer Helpers

Peer Helpers are experienced students that provide a warm welcome and offer a helping hand to new international students during their first weeks at VIU. They also volunteer to support or host special events that help students build community and make connections on campus. Duties include:

• Actively participating in Peer Helper training and leadership and intercultural skills development sessions
• Assisting with orientation duties including being greeters, helping with campus tours, computer account set-up, event support, and occasional one-on-one support
• Using skills from Peer Helper training to provide cultural adjustment support to new students
• Being knowledgeable about campus and community resources to be able to refer new students to appropriate resources
• Participating in International Education initiatives such as Culture Couch, panel discussions, workshops, and special events
• Encouraging new students to participate in campus life activities

Rewards of Participating in the Peer Helper Program

• Gain valuable leadership and intercultural skills while gaining experience to help build your portfolio
• Increase your network of friends and connections on campus
• Make a difference on campus and in the experience of new students
• Earn the Peer Helper Program "Certificate of Completion"

How to Apply

Peer Helper recruitment takes place once annually. Selected students serve a minimum of an 11-month term as volunteer campus leaders. To be selected for the program, applicants must demonstrate a positive attitude, a commitment to volunteering, and a genuine interest in helping fellow students.

Programs

Explore a wide range of program offerings and learning services. Choose from degrees, vocational training, certificates, and more.

Programs

• Learning at VIU
• Undergraduate Programs
• Graduate Programs
• Trades and Applied Technology Programs
• Academic and Career Preparation programs
• Professional and Life Long Learning

Admissions & Aid

Discover how to apply to VIU and get more information about tuition and financial aid.

Admissions

• VIU Admissions
• Transfer Admissions
• Mature Students and Adult Learner Admissions
• Events and Information Sessions

Tuition and Aid

• VIU Tuition and Aid
• Scholarships, Awards & Bursaries
• Student Loans and Grants
• External Awards and Funding
• Tuition and Fees

Student Life

Make the best of your time at VIU. Get involved in campus events and enjoy island adventures.

Student Life

• VIU Mariners Athletics
• Get to Know Vancouver Island
• Recreation
• Co-Curricular Engagement
• Events Calendar

Student Services and Support

• Experiential Learning
• Accessibility Services
• Learning Matters
• Campus Store
• Living On and Off Campus
• Food Services
• Health and Wellness

Research

Discover how VIU's interdisciplinary research is making a real-world impact.

Research

• Centres and Institutes
• News and Events
• VIU Expert List
• Undergraduate Research

Research and Creative Activity

Explore the research highlights. Includes recent publications, ground-breaking studies, and more.

Vancouver Island University

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Overview:

Vancouver Island University (VIU) is a public university located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, humanities, social sciences, business, education, health, science, technology, and trades. VIU is known for its commitment to student success, providing a supportive learning environment and a variety of services to help students thrive.

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Services Offered:

VIU offers a comprehensive range of services to support students, including:

Academic Advising:

Personalized guidance on program selection, course planning, and academic progress.

Financial Aid and Awards:

Scholarships, bursaries, loans, and other financial assistance options.

Career Services:

Career counseling, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Library:

Extensive collection of books, journals, databases, and online resources.

Health and Wellness Services:

Counseling, health promotion, and fitness programs.

Student Housing:

On-campus residence options for students seeking a convenient and supportive living environment.

Campus Recreation:

Opportunities for physical activity, sports, and recreational activities.

Campus Store:

Supplies, textbooks, and VIU merchandise.

Food Services:

Dining options on campus, including cafes, restaurants, and vending machines.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

VIU fosters a vibrant and inclusive campus community, offering students a variety of opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities, connect with peers, and develop their personal and professional skills. Students can participate in:

Student Clubs and Organizations:

A wide range of clubs and organizations catering to diverse interests.

Campus Events:

Social gatherings, workshops, performances, and guest speaker events.

Volunteer Opportunities:

Opportunities to give back to the community and gain valuable experience.

Athletics:

Participation in varsity sports and recreational leagues.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Location:

Situated on beautiful Vancouver Island, offering access to stunning natural landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Small Class Sizes:

Personalized attention from faculty and a more intimate learning environment.

Supportive Community:

A welcoming and inclusive campus community that fosters a sense of belonging.

Practical Experience:

Emphasis on hands-on learning and real-world applications.

Career-Focused Programs:

Programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in their chosen fields.

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Academic Programs:

VIU offers a diverse range of academic programs, including:

Bachelor's Degrees:

In various disciplines, including arts, business, education, health, science, and technology.

Master's Degrees:

In areas such as business administration, education, and geographic information systems.

Diplomas and Certificates:

In a wide range of fields, including trades, technology, and professional development.

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Other:

VIU has three campuses located in Nanaimo, Cowichan, and Powell River, providing students with a variety of campus environments to choose from. The university also has a strong commitment to Indigenous education and offers a variety of programs and services specifically designed for Indigenous students.