Building a bridge to success

Concordia’s Department of Counselling and Development is dedicated to guiding and empowering students, not only in the academic world but in everyday life.

Whether a student needs guidance in determining a career path or wants to discuss an issue with a counsellor or psychologist, the department has many services that are available free of charge to students.

“Students — new and returning — can benefit greatly from the professional guidance of our New Student Program,” explains Marlene Gross, manager for the New Student and Student Success programs. “All students deserve a smooth transition to campus life.”

The department provides students with solutions, as well as options, so students can make a proactive choice for what meets their needs.

“If you sit at the back of a classroom, you won’t get noticed. Make this year count, get involved, get connected and be present,” says Gross, who encourages students to become involved. “It’s not about doing as much as possible, but being proactive and moving forward one step at a time.” 

Connecting with others
She points to the Student Success Centres, located on each campus, which provide a comfortable and friendly environment and serve as a beacon for positive, like-minded students who wish to succeed. Staffed by student mentors, students can learn how to transform their passions and become more active inside and outside the classroom, or how to network.

“Establishing strong, positive connections within the university community leads to enhanced learning and personal growth,” adds Gross. “The mentors act like big brothers or big sisters because they can relate to the new students.”

Supporting students in their studies
Student Learning Services, also a part of Counselling and Development, provides a number of services that promote student confidence in note-taking, oral presentations, test-taking, time management and strengthening English and French language skills.

“The SLS and its team of professionals and specialists put in a lot of effort to assist students by covering a wide range of skills through workshops, individual sessions and tutoring,” says Gross.

Counselling and psychological services
Whether a student is dealing with an academic issue or a personal issue such as anxiety, relationship problem, culture shock, or living alone, the Counselling and Psychological Services supports the emotional needs of students. Located on both campuses, these services help students to overcome their difficulties.

Promoting volunteerism
Concordia’s LIVE Centre (Leadership, Initiative and Volunteer Engagement Centre) provides students with help finding volunteer opportunities. Not only does it look great on a CV but volunteering on and off campus allows students to develop interpersonal and career skills and gives students the self-confidence and empowerment of contributing to make a difference.

The Bridge
Concordia’s New Student Program publishes a magazine, The Bridge, to guide and educate students through the various aspects of university and campus life, from taking an “alternative spring break” to creating an eco-friendly life on campus with Sustainable Concordia.

David Adelman is a journalism student and summer intern for Concordia’s University Communications Services.

Related links:
•    Concordia Counselling and Development Department site, including the New Student Program, Counselling and Psychological Services, Student Success Centres, and Student Learning Services, and Career Services
•    The Bridge
•    LIVE
•    Sustainable Concordia
•    “Supporting Students in Crisis” — NOW, June 21, 2011