Connect with us and each otherWe are look forward to welcoming you to Western! Whether you will be here in Canada or studying from abroad, the International & Exchange Student Centre team is planning an amazing experience for you. From travel support, to our virtual Welcome Centre and Orientation programming and fun social events, we are here to support you as you transition to university life and join the Western family. Please contact us or arrange to meet online if you need assistance. Travel informationIf you plan to join us in person for the fall, it’s important to follow the instructions on our arrival website to ensure you have all the necessary documents, are aware of all travel restrictions, have completed your quarantine plan and have arranged for transportation from the airport and to your quarantine accommodations. For assistance during business hours (8:30 am to 4:30 pm) contact us at 519-661-2111 ext. 89309. If you have any issues or questions while travelling, please contact our After Hours Urgent Support Phone Line at 519-661-3955. Virtual Welcome CentreIESC staff and Welcome Team volunteers are here to welcome you and support you during your first few weeks as a new or returning Western student. Join us for our virtual drop-in hours on Zoom where our volunteers can help answer questions you may have and help you get ready for a great year whether you will be joining us in person or virtually this year! Our Virtual Welcome Centre will be open from Monday to Friday, August 13 to September 18, 2020 from 8 am to 4 pm EDT. International Student OrientationAccess Fall 2020 International Student Orientation online to learn more about Western and Canadian culture, unwritten rules of the Canadian classroom, key academic values in Canada, important immigration information, wellness and safety tips, getting and staying connected remotely, and so much more! IESC’s official OWL site also includes links to key resources for international students, technology to help you succeed, information about COVID-19, and open forums where you can introduce yourself and meet fellow new international students from around the world! #GlobalWesternU Student Party - September 2No matter where you are in the world, we hope you’ll join us at this two-hour fun-filled event to make new friends, hangout, dance, watch, play and celebrate the start of the Fall 2020 term! IESC’s new student party will be a great opportunity for you to meet other international students in a casual and relaxed setting. Join us for special games and activities, some friendly competition, and a few other surprises - DON’T MISS OUT! All students who attend will have a chance to win one of two $100 Gift Cards! Increase your chances of winning by participating in multiple draw opportunities throughout the event! To accommodate everyone from around the world, there will be two parties: 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. EST. Register to attend the 10:00 a.m. party HERE or the 6:00 p.m. party HERE. All registered students will receive a direct zoom link in advance of the event. Note: These events are open to all new undergraduate and graduate international students. Start connecting with your #GlobalWesternU classmates today!Whether you are beginning your studies in London or joining us from abroad, we encourage you to start building community and making connections with new friends as soon as possible. Start by introducing yourself in the “Forums” section of the International Student Fall 2020 OWL site. Use the “start new conversation” tab and include your first name and program of study in the title. Say hello and tell us a little bit about yourself in the body of the post and be sure to comment on others’ posts as well! You are also encouraged to join our Global Cafe Facebook Group and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to receive regular updates about IESC programming, interesting events and campus information, immigration updates, and so much more! Apply for your Peer GuideThe International Peer Guide program matches new international students with friendly upper-year Western students who connect new students to the Western community, answer questions and provide other support. Peer guides are:
Please note that for fall 2020, communication and events will take place virtually via email, text messages and online platforms. English Conversation ProgramIf you are looking to enhance your spoken English skills and increase your confidence in using conversational English, sign up for the English Conversation Program (ECP), available in the fall, winter, and summer terms. Explore events and programmingAlthough we can't meet in person, our IESC team is committed to providing ways for you to connect and socialize. Visit our Remote Community Page and the IESC Events Page for opportunities and details on getting involved. Other Key Resources |