Niagara College International HANDBOOK FOR SUCCESS Winter 2017

1 Winter 2017 Registration Guide

2 Student Services

3 College Vocabulary

4 Checklist for Success Registration Guide Registration Guide

Full-Time Programs

Selecting your Timetable Winter 2017 Starting: December 12 at 7:00 A.M. 1. Log into mync.niagaracollege.ca January Start International 2. Under “My Timetable & Grades” Students Registration Guide click on “Select/Manage Timetable” 3. Read the important notice and click “I Accept” Everything you need to select your Enroll Online with “NICOLE” 4. Click on “Select Your Timetable Block” timetable and get yourself enrolled in 5. Click the drop down window beside ”Timetable your classes for the Winter term. block” when you have one selected What is NICOLE? 6. Click “View Timetable” for a printable version

NICOLE allows you to activate your computer account, select and print your timetable, pick your IMPORTANT: Some programs will only have one electives and swap or drop classes. timetable to choose from.

Sign up for MyNC In case any time or room changes have occurred, print a new copy of your timetable on the first day 1. Create your account 2-3 days after fee payment of class. KEY DATES Complete list of dates: niagaracollege.ca/dates 2. Go to mync.niagaracollege.ca 3. Click “Set Your Username & Password” Choosing Electives

By This Date You Need To For Help 4. Complete the steps to receive your User ID, password and NC email address If your program requires an elective, you will 5. Record and keep this information safe be asked to choose it when you enroll in your December 12 Full-time on-line registration begins (fees must be paid first) mync.niagaracollege.ca 6. Check your new email often to receive important NC information Timetable Block. Space is limited, so choose your December 15 All academic conditions submitted to college [email protected] electives as soon as possible. If you wait, you can choose an elective by clicking on “Customize your After You Enroll Pick up student ID card (new students only) niagaracollege.ca/studentcard College Essentials Timetable Block”. For more information, click on January 4 – 6 International ESL student orientation international.niagaracollege.ca/orientation the help button on the NICOLE homepage and read the document “Choosing your Elective”. January 5 – 7 International post secondary student orientation international.niagaracollege.ca/orientation Choose Your Timetable Mandatory Health Insurance and Enroll in Your Classes IMPORTANT: If you change your timetable block, January 5 – 6 College-wide orientation (all campuses) niagaracollege.ca/orientation All NC International Students are you must reselect your elective. automatically registered with StudentGuard U-Pass sticker (bus pass) is available for pickup at the SAC office Using NICOLE, you can select your timetable January 5 niagaracollege.ca/upass Health Insurance. If you are sick, the (all campuses) and enroll in your classes. Space is limited, so Swapping / Dropping Classes select your timetable and electives early. Visit insurance will cover your urgent medical care. January 9 Classes begin mync.niagaracollege.ca If your condition is non-urgent, your costs The last day to swap or drop a class is January 13. may not be covered. Check with the insurance January 13 Last day to register or change sections niagaracollege.ca/dates IMPORTANT: You must pay your fees before provider for more details about your coverage. Example: You are currently registered in Biology. January 20 Update your address in at the international office (all students) you can select a timetable. Also, you may wish You have selected Timetable #1, but would like to to provide your most current study permit Your coverage includes: swap your biology class with the one scheduled on January 20 Last day to withdraw with refund (“Tenth Day”) niagaracollege.ca/dates status to avoid delays in registration. »» prescription drugs Timetable #2. You may do so as long as:

February 20 Family Day (statutory holiday - college closed) »» dental care »» There is a seat available Get Your Student Card »» extended health February 27 – March 3 Mid-Term Break »» There are no conflicts with other classes The NC Student Card is your pass to College »» vision care you are registered in April 14 Good Friday (statutory holiday - college closed) services including the athletic and fitness »» accidental benefits To swap or drop a class, click on “Customize your April 21 Classes end niagaracollege.ca/dates centers, use of the libraries’ learning resources, You will receive your insurance card in your Timetable Block” photocopying and printing services, computer NC email within one month of classes starting. May 8 Final grades available on the web mync.niagaracollege.ca lab services, student health benefits and your If you do not receive your card, contact your Schedule of Courses (Course Search/View) Regional bus pass. You can submit a photo for International Student Advisor. Along with your your student card after paying your fees and To search for a course (by title or subject) use the Please Note: If you do not pay your fees by the due date, your seat will be offered to someone else. card, you will be provided a copy of the policy enrolling in classes. For more information: that is available in several languages. “Schedule of Courses” link located on the “mync” niagaracollege.ca/studentcard portal. Simply enter the term, course title or For an outline of covered services and more subject and click “search”. Email: [email protected] information regarding health care, visit VISIT THE INTERNATIONAL OFFICE Online: international.niagaracollege.ca International Orientation international.niagaracollege.ca/health or International Orientation for winter start call StudentGuard at 1-877-USE-THIS Campus: Segal International Centre Niagara-on-the-Lake: Room W115 Niagara Falls: Room MM52 students is two days long and begins on IMPORTANT: StudentGuard insurance is (905) 735-2211 Ext. 7804 (905) 641-2252 Ext. 4169 (905) 374-7454 Ext. 3603 January 4th. For all the details, visit mandatory and cannot be cancelled. international.niagaracollege.ca/orientation

2 Niagara College International Handbook for Success international.niagaracollege.ca 3 Registration Guide Registration Guide

Housing Options What to Expect at Frequently Asked Questions Our International Housing Coordinators can help you find a place to live Niagara College while you complete your studies at Niagara College. Most students choose Can I get a bank account? to stay in Homestay, but you also have the choice to stay in on-campus International Students at Niagara College enjoy a variety of self-service You may want a Canadian bank account while studying in Canada. Some residence or in an apartment. options that allow them to remain updated on campus notices, class Canadian banks have offices in your country or you can open an account schedules, grades and more. Your mcNC account is your portal to all the after you arrive. Homestay important information you will need to be successful at the College. You will need your passport and student ID to open an account. There is no In Homestay, you can expect to experience Canadian culture from a As a responsible member of the Niagara College community, it is expected fee. The process is easy and takes less than one hour. Canadian family. You will have your own private room with a bed, desk and that you will: a place to store your belongings. Although you prepare your own breakfast »» Attend 100% of your classes unless you are sick What documentation does Canadian and lunch, your evening meals are made by your Homestay family and » Be punctual Border Services need? usually eaten together. It’s a wonderful way to learn about Canada and » yourself! Apply online at niagaracollege.ca/homestay »» Follow instructions and pay attention to details When arriving at Canada Customs and Immigration you will need to present »» Be professional your Study Permit Authorization Letter along with your passport. You Landing Pad should also carry your Letter of Acceptance and Invoice receipt with you. »» Participate in class and group work If your program has a work component, present your offer letter to border In Landing Pad, you will be welcomed into a family home for a one month »» Maintain academic integrity/honesty services. period as you look for space to rent. You will have your own private, »» Be proactive – ask for help before problems grow bigger furnished room plus two meals per day. Living in the local community will How do I apply for a Student Visa? allow you to be more informed about renting in so you can make a It is possible to fail a course. College professors may deduct marks for better decision about where you wish to live during your studies. late or missing assignments, and they cannot assign grades for tests that Information on preparing a Student Visa can be found at cic.gc.ca haven’t been written. College students are expected to complete all their Residence tests, assignments and presentations on time — and if this is not possible, Can I work in Canada? students should discuss their issues with their professor promptly. In residence, you receive a private furnished bedroom but share a kitchen The Government of Canada allows the following work options for and bathroom with another student. You need to purchase or bring many International Students of your own living supplies including bedding and kitchenware and have to »» co-operative education (co-op) cook for yourself. Residence is a great opportunity to meet other students in a safe environment on campus. »» internship/practicum »» on-campus/off-campus work Off-Campus Housing »» post-graduate work For more information, visit cic.gc.ca In most off-campus rentals, you will have your own space that may be partially furnished. If you have roommates, you will share cooking and bathroom facilities with the people you live with. You must buy your own Do I need to buy textbooks? food and cook for yourself. Once your visa is approved, we can help you Most courses require you to buy textbooks. The cost can vary from with referrals to landlords upon your arrival. Important: Niagara College is $500-$2000. Textbooks must be purchased during the first week of class How do I know that I’m a multi-campus institution. Please ensure to check the campus where your at your campus bookstore. program is based before deciding on off-campus housing options. successfully Enrolled in Do I need to buy my own computer? Questions my classes? Laptop computers are mandatory in all semesters of the following For all housing related questions, contact an International Housing programs: When logged into NICOLE, the status line will show you how many Coordinator at [email protected] »» Mechanical Engineering Technology courses and credits you are enrolled in. Clicking on “Credit Requirements” Welland: (905) 735-2211 Ext. 7763 »» Mechanical Engineering Technician will show you the total credits required for your program as well as the Niagara-on-the-Lake: (905) 641-2252 Ext. 4190 minimum allowed to be a full-time student. »» Civil Engineering Technician »» Construction Engineering Technology You must see your International Student Advisor before swapping or dropping a class. It is your responsibility to ensure you are enrolled in all There are over 2,000 computers between our three campuses for you to your classes. use free of charge. Computer labs are open early and remain open late so you can complete work after your classes. Each lab is equiped with pay- Documents to help you are available online at mync.niagaracollege.ca. If per-use printers and high speed internet access. you can’t find the answer to your question, send an email stating your name, student number, program and question to [email protected] You may find it more convenient to purchase your own laptop to use. There is wireless and wired network access in all campuses.

4 Niagara College International Handbook for Success international.niagaracollege.ca 5 Handbook for Success PageHandbook Heaader for Success

Student Services Check Your College Tips for Athletics Food Services Social Events Word Knowledge Success Athletics and recreation are an NC Food Services offers broad and varied menu Activities and social International important part of college life. choices that encompass the quality and value of Social Activities events are organized Whether your interest lies in home cooking. We offer meal plans that can save regularly to help you Academic Advisement: Articulation Agreement: an agreement between post-secondary varsity or intramural sports... you money with savings of up to 13%! enjoy your time at NC. Some of these include: a written record of your institutions (colleges or universities) that facilitates the transfer join in the spirit of the Niagara hiking, camping, canoeing, horseback riding, program’s plan of study. of credits between those institutions. For more info, visit niagara.campusdish.com Knights! Men’s and women’s day trips to major cities, sports and skiing/ varsity sports include: basketball, curling, outdoor Global Connections snowboarding. soccer, golf, and volleyball. Intramural activities BlackBoard: the online portal that allows professors to Co-Curricular Record: a document This program connects Canadian students For a list of upcoming events visit include: ice hockey, ball hockey, baseball, post course material, announcements, grades, quizzes that can be used in tandem with with International students in a partnership to international.niagaracollege.ca/events basketball, table tennis, volleyball, and more! and other important information that students need for a resume that showcases student promote learning from one another. successful completion of their courses. engagement, leadership and Maintain a healthy lifestyle by using the gym Student Administrative Council (SAC) The goal of Global Connections is to introduce co-curricular activities pursued and fitness centre at the Welland and Niagara- Every year, the students to a cross-cultural experience. Each Niagara College Student outside of the classroom. on-the-Lake campuses. The Welland Campus Administrative Councilstudent body of Coordinator: a Credit: most courses are connection between an International and has a large green space available for student student life de ned NC votes for a professor who also worth 2-3 credits. These are Canadian Student is a positive, valuable and recreational use, or join the Niagara Centre council of representatives that act as the liaison advises students a reflection of the number Course Information Sheet (CIS): mutually beneficial interaction. YMCA (membership fees apply). between students and College Administration. of their program of of classroom hours involved a summary of course information Reasons to Join: The Welland and NOTL Campuses has their own study. in a course. and learning outcomes. For more info visit: ncrecreation.ca • Try and attend all of your classes student council that looks after extra curricular, »» Help improve your language skills and make notes to help you study for Campus Store social and academic functions. »» Feel more integrated into Niagara College life exams Course Description: A description of your course that includes the subject matter, approach The campus stores sell course textbooks, Welland: second floor, Athletic Wing. »» Experience Canadian hospitality and friendship and applicability of what you are studying. supplies, computer accessories, trade and Niagara-on-the-Lake: lower level, North Wing. • Get involved with student activities »» Share cultural celebrations, food, music, reference books, giftware and clothing. The Niagara Falls: Student Commons on campus. Most student groups pictures, etc. campus store offers four options in textbooks: run events that you can attend. Look For more info, visit ncsac.ca Grade Point Average (GPA): The weighted averages of Mid-Term Evaluations: indicators New, Used, Digital and Rentals on selected For more information visit: for activities on BlackBoard, the an individual’s course grades multiplied by the number of a student’s progress in each titles. Your timetable/schedule or full course international.niagaracollege.ca/connections Centre for Leadership & Engagement Student Centres of credits the course is worth. Where a course has been course are made available about information is required to determine which and student notice boards around Healthcare The Core (Welland Campus) and The Armoury repeated, only the higher grade is used in calculation. half-way through a semester material(s) you need to purchase. Shop on-line campus. (Niagara-on-the-Lake Campus) are not-for-profit (usually in November for Fall term at niagaracollege.ca/store Welland: AH125 Niagara-on-the-Lake: W105 A Registered Nurse is available Monday-Friday businesses which are owned and operated by and in March for Winter term). • Be careful with your money. Always Centre for Students with Disabilities 8:30am - 4:30pm. We also provide doctor’s SAC. Both feature a variety of food and beverage NICOLE: is the acronym for Niagara College Online At NC, evaluations are “S” for make sure you can pay for your items, games and entertainment. Every dollar Enrollment. It is where you choose your timetable. satisfactory, “U” for unsatisfactory At NC, we offer a variety of accommodations to clinics on campus during the week. living expenses (bills, food, rent etc.) spent in the student centres goes back to you and “N” for not attending. help make your college experience successful. For more info, niagaracollege.ca/health before buying items like clothes or the student. Watch for our daily food specials. Students with documented disabilities are electronics. Library & Learning Commons Plagiarism: taking words or ideas from someone else’s encouraged to make an appointment with a THE SHACK (Canteen) at the Welland Campus writing or speech without acknowledging (“referencing”) Prerequisite: a course that a • If you are unhappy with what you Disability Counsellor before the start of their new NC libraries and Learning Commons are located is conveniently located just inside the entrance their origin. Students caught plagiarizing will be student is required to take before are studying, we are here to help academic year. For more info visit: in the Welland and Niagara-on-the-Lake of the Athletic Centre. Get your coffee, grab n’ punished with Student Academic Misconduct. they are allowed to take another you. Make an appointment with an niagaracollege.ca/cswd Campuses. A student ID card is required to go meals and a variety of assorted snacks at International Student Advisor who borrow equipment from a library. For more info, affordable prices. ncsac.ca specific course. Co-Curricular Record (CCR) niagaracollege.ca/library can talk with you about your options. Transferring Credits Program: a program of study is a set of courses Co-Curricular Record (CCR) is an official Niagara • Enhance your resume and boost your Lockers (usually 5-6 per semester) designed to teach expertise Semester/Term: a period of study College document developed to enhance your Students who transfer from other institutions in a particular field, such as Office Administration or employability skills by getting a part- To rent a locker per term, visit measured in weeks. Semesters resume and career or academic portfolios. By may be granted exemptions for individual Law and Security. time job, co-op placement volunteer niagaracollege.ca/lockers are usually 14-15 weeks long. registering for the program, individuals gain courses or direct entry into an advanced term. position while studying at Niagara Some fees will apply. recognition for student engagement, leadership Parking College. and co-curricular activities pursued outside of For more information or to download a request Registrar: the officer in a Scholarship: money awarded to a student, usually based the classroom. Parking permits can be purchased, • Read the College’s policies on form, visit: niagaracollege.ca/transfercredit college or university who on outstanding academic performance or other criteria. by term or by academic year, on-line at: Academic Misconduct, Academic keeps enrollment and Scholarships do not usually have to be paid back. Computer Support Centre niagaracollege.ca/parking Code of Behaviour and Attendance Transit U–Pass (bus pass) academic achievement & Lateness. Understanding the rules The Computer Support Centre can assist you Peer Tutoring Full-time post-secondary and/or graduate records. The office of the with Internet and computer account problems. will help you avoid mistakes that certificate students can pick up their U–Pass Registrar at NC (which is Teacher Learning Plan (TLP): the specific tracking plan used You can reach the CSC by phone at Through peer tutoring, a student who has could hurt your grades. sticker at their campus’ SAC office. This U–Pass also knows as Registration by a professor for a course. excelled in a course helps a student experiencing 905-735-2211 Ext. 7642 or email at is included in tuition fees and provides unlimited and Records) is where difficulties in that same course. For more info • Show your knowledge and [email protected]. transit services in Welland, St. Catharines, students can make changes visit: niagaracollege.ca/tutor understanding of your course material Thorold and Niagara Falls. For more information to their programs, pay fees, CSC phones and email accounts are monitored Transcript: an official record of all the courses a student by participating in class discussion. visit: and apply to graduate. Monday - Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm. We try to niagaracollege.ca/upass has taken and their final marks. Part of your grade may depend on it! respond to all inquiries within 24 hours.

6 Niagara College International Handbook for Success international.niagaracollege.ca 7 Handbook for Success PageHandbook Heaader for Success

Checklist for Success We suggest you complete this checklist before the start of your first semester. (Not everything will pertain to you) Pre-Arrival I have submitted any outstanding documents requested by Niagara College International Admissions I have chosen my timetable I have set up my computer account I have made a copy of my passport that includes: my personal information page; all stamped pages; visas and permits I have arranged for transport from Pearson Airport to the College Arrival I checked in at the International Office I have my Student ID Card I contacted my family to tell them I arrived safely Housing and Accommodation I have read the information at international.niagaracollege.ca/housing I have arranged for accommodation at a hotel of my choice for my arrival

I have updated my address in BlackBoard so that I receive my mail Transportation I know about the Dental Clinic services at the Welland Campus I have introduced myself to all my professors and the Chair of I have read the Homestay Guide If I am going to take the bus: I have the Community Emergency Contacts card my program I have read about Ontario Landlord Tenant laws I know the office hours of my professors and how to contact them I have picked up my U-Pass from the Student I am familiar with the different types of stores located I am aware of the rules and restrictions for the property where Administrative Council (SAC) office(available during Orientation) in my city for food, household items, clothes, etc. by email / phone I reside I have my timetable and know where all my classes are I understand how to use the bus Work I have reviewed my Academic Advisement and know the plan of Phones, Cable, Internet, Email, Mail If I am using a bike: I have a Co-op Work Permit if I have a co-op/internship/field study for my program I have investigated the costs of landline phones versus I have bought a bike lock and helmet placement job in my program I have reviewed the Course Information Sheets for all my courses cell phones and purchased one or both I have reviewed Ontario’s Guide to Safe Cycling I have visited the NC Career Office on my Campus I know when my assignments are due and tests are scheduled I have investigated bundling of communication services (including Cycling and the Law) I know how to look for an on-campus job and compared prices and plans I have read the document about Classroom Expectation If I am driving: If I have a co-op or internship, I have met with my I have purchased my textbooks for this term I have looked up the post offices and figured out which is Co-op/Internship Consultant I have read the Driver’s Handbook and am familiar with the rules closest and most convenient to me I have looked at the Study Resources on the NC website and found concerning driving in Ontario I have received my Social Insurance Number (SIN Card) resources I can use Currency, Banking and Cheques I have read information about getting an Ontario Driver’s License Student Life I have read key policies concerning student rights and I have opened a bank account I have read information on how to get a NC parking pass I attended Orientation responsibilities I have spoken with someone about the currency system in Canada Health and Wellbeing I have reviewed the information provided on the I have reviewed the Academic Misconduct Policy I have spoken with someone about how to use cheques USB provided at Orientation I have read the information about health services at I have reviewed information and sought help as needed regarding

I have spoken with someone about how to use an ATM Niagara College I have taken a campus tour Plagiarism and Citations Immigration I have received via email, saved and printed my I signed up for an International Peer Mentor I know where to request or become a Peer Tutor I have reviewed the Canadian Citizenship and Immigration Guard Me Health Card I have received my Student ID Card I have taken a library tour website’s information on study permits. I have read about what Guard Me covers I have visited the Student Administrative Council (SAC) Office I am aware of the free Math, ESL, Research Skills and Writing I have applied for any required immigration documents I know how to submit a claim online or by paper and know about their services and activities tutorials in the Library I have made a copy of my passport that includes my personal I have updated my local contact information on my Student I regularly visit the International Homeroom BlackBoard I have explored the types of information technology support information page, all stamped pages, visas and permits Records, including emergency contact information to learn about important updates and social activities available on campus Spouse and Family I know where walk-in clinics are in my city I am aware of Campus Security Services, such as Campus Watch I know to call extension 7642 for BlackBoard / Computing help and the hospital for emergencies I know what do to if I need a locker I have signed up for the Co-Curricular Record I have investigated the resources available I read about Student Counselling services in case to my spouse and/or children Academic Success I ever need to book an appointment with them I have applied for any required immigration documents I have met with my International Student Advisor

I have visited the Athletics and Recreation centres I attended my Program Information Session during Orientation and know about activities offered

8 Niagara College International Handbook for Success international.niagaracollege.ca 9