Semester end is almost here 🙌
This is it – the final stretch before a much-deserved break! This is the final student newsletter of the semester. We’ll see you again next month if you’re taking classes during Summer Session. If not, have a great summer break!
Need to know
Unlock your study superpowers
Get tips and strategies that can help you prep for exams from Peer-Supported Learning Coordinator Samantha Letourneau. Samantha provides some solo studying strategies and ways to prioritize your well-being during exam time. Read the VIU Blog article and learn more about Peer Supported Learning. Becky and Dani share more tips on an Instagram reel.
Reminder to continuing students
The VIU Timetable for fall 2025 and spring 2026 goes live on April 24. Anyone needing assistance with course selection and navigating waitlists can call, email or use Academic Advising’s daily appointments and drop-in. Also – have you checked out our Tips Tuesday series on Instagram?
Changes to parking violation policy
Last week, an email was sent to students regarding a new parking violation enforcement policy. Beginning August 31, 2025, VIU will link unpaid parking violations to outstanding student fees. To clarify, this policy only applies to violation tickets issued at that time and moving forward, not retroactively to tickets already incurred. A frequently asked questions section on our Parking webpage is now available. While issuing violation tickets is never something an organization wants to do, they do play an important role in managing the limited supply and high demand for parking on campus. Read more in this update from the Acting President.
Budget survey reports
Thank you to everyone who took the time to share your thoughts through the recent student budget survey. It is important to note that response rates were lower than usual, and as such, the results may not fully reflect the perspectives of our student body. Your feedback reflects a wide range of concerns – and important truths. It gives us a clearer picture of what we need to do better, especially in rebuilding trust and improving communication. This feedback provides a crucial foundation for reflection and change. Read the full update from the Acting President.
Student shoutout
VIU engineering students took creativity to the next level during their annual design competition! They built rolling ball structures that rely on gravity and motors to keep the ball in motion.
The coolest part? Each team designed their own section and they combined them into one giant machine. The innovative structures were made from various materials from popsicle sticks and drink cans to 3D-printed pieces and wire.
Connect
Tofino day trip 🏄🏽
Join us on April 26 for a day trip to beautiful Tofino, a picturesque town on Vancouver Island's west coast, known for its beautiful beaches, rainforests and outdoor activities! It's the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This trip includes transportation, a tour guide, a stop at Qualicum Falls, a scenic drive around Tofino, free time for you to explore the town or join a surf lesson (additional cost), and a stop at Long Beach. The trip is $99 without surfing lessons and gear. Additional $87 for optional surfing lessons and gear. Book your trip and sign the waiver.
Candidates’ Town Hall
Voters go back to the polls on April 28 to elect a new federal government. Still deciding who to vote for? VIU’s Political Studies Department is hosting a Candidates’ Town Hall on Tuesday, April 22 at 7 pm in the Malaspina Theatre on VIU’s Nanaimo campus. All candidates running in the Nanaimo-Ladysmith riding have been invited. After introductory remarks by each candidate, your questions will be taken. No registration is required for this free event. All members of the community are welcome. Bring your questions!
Polling stations on campus 🗳️
The Trades Discovery Centre on VIU’s Nanaimo campus will host advanced and election day polling stations for the 2025 Canadian federal election. A reminder that people can only vote at the polling stations listed on their voting card. Dates and times:
- Advanced polling stations: April 18 to 21, polls are open 9 am to 9 pm.
- General election day: April 28, polls are open 7 am to 7 pm.
During this time, expect heavier traffic in Lots A and U. Visit the Elections Canada website for information on key dates, ways to vote, ID to vote, registration and much more.
Relax and recharge at the Career Studio 🍿
Feeling stressed about exams or want a quiet place to come and read or colour? Come to the Career Studio any day during finals (April 14 to 25) from 9 am to 3:30 pm, from Monday to Friday for the last two weeks of April. Grab a care package or bag of popcorn as you enjoy a peaceful space to pause.
Guess the number of jellybeans
Come by Building 255’s reception to guess the number of Easter jellybeans to win the whole jar! The winner will be announced before April 18.
Supports and services
VIU tax clinic 💰
Book an appointment with the VIU Tax Clinic. The clinic does simple tax returns only. Appointments are available on April 17 and 25 at various times. Book an appointment and learn if you are eligible for assistance.
Substance use and overdose prevention website
Did you know that VIU has a substance use and overdose prevention program aimed at providing education, resources and training to support the health and safety of our community? This initiative is available to all VIU employees and students. We encourage our community to bookmark the substance use and overdose prevention website, where many of these resources are shared and upcoming training sessions will be listed. This website also details where you can find naloxone kits on campus.
Career Studio change in opening hours
As we move into finals season and Intersession, the Career Studio is adjusting its hours accordingly. From April 14 to May 2, the studio will be open 11 am to 2 pm, from Monday to Friday. Starting May 5, the studio will be open 12 to 2 pm, Monday to Friday. Book your appointment online via Experience Hub or drop-in at any time during these hours.
International supports and services
Stop by or reach out to us if you need help navigating medical insurance and applying for BC MSP. Stop by Building 255, Room 200, Monday to Friday, from 8 am to 4 pm, phone 250.740.6527 or email support.international@viu.ca. Closed weekends and statutory holidays.
VIU Off-Campus Housing 🏡
Are you leaving your rental accommodation soon?
- know when and how to give notice
- leave your accommodation correctly cleaned
- book a move-out inspection
- know about move-out times and forwarding addresses
- ask for a reference
Make sure you follow a few simple steps to end your tenancy well and help ensure the return of your full deposit. Read the VIU blog post for more details.
Affordable dental care 🪥
Are you looking for affordable dental care right on campus? There is a dental clinic in Building 180! For only $35, you can receive thorough oral health care provided to you by dental hygiene students. The VIU Student Dental Hygiene Clinic operates and accepts new clients from September through April. Give us a call at 250.740.6240 to become a client! Learn more about how to become a client.
Get paid to show off your campus!
Develop your leadership skills and plan fun events in a summer job on campus that allows you to share your journey with prospective students. Want to learn more about the Summer Student Ambassador work op position? Email connect@viu.ca.
Physiotherapy services coming soon
Physiotherapy services are coming to the VIU Health and Wellness Centre! Bookings open March 24 for appointments starting March 31. Call 250.740.6416 or come in person to book. Payment due at the time of the session. Invoices can be submitted to VIUSU Greenshield Health Benefits or employees can access their benefits for reimbursement! Learn more.
Explore your next research steps at the library
Just finished CREATE (or another research project?) Graduating and thinking about what’s next with your research goals? Join us to chat about your options! And good luck on exams everyone! Remember that the Nanaimo campus library building hours are extended from 7 am to 1 am. Still lagging with those last assignments? Get research help from the library. Plus, if you’re about to become a VIU alumni,learn more about library perks!
Mark your calendar
Interested in becoming a naloxone trainer?
Student employees are invited to join our overdose prevention efforts and become a naloxone trainer to support overdose prevention efforts on campus. Student employees would receive training and help deliver education sessions and workshops, provide training and resources at campus events and play a key role in fostering a safer and more information campus community. If you’re interested email kayla.fowler@viu.ca with the workshop date you are interested in attending. There are two upcoming training sessions:
- May 23, 9 to 11 am
- June 3, 1 to 3 pm
Learn about the Post Graduate Work Program
Are you approaching graduation? Are you planning to stay in Canada as a worker? If so, please join Mohammed Hawamdeh (RCIC) on April 17, from 6 to 7 pm via teams. Learn about the Post Graduate Work Program, including recent policy changes, required documentation to support your application, your ability to work while transitioning, and the immigration status of your accompanying family members. Learn more and get the Teams link.
Day of Mourning
Marked annually in Canada on April 28, the National Day of Mourning is dedicated to remembering those who have lost their lives to work-related incidents or occupational disease and renewing our commitment to creating healthy and safe workplaces.
The ceremony at VIU takes place Monday, April 28, 11 to 11:30 am at the Jardin des Quatorze (located on the east side of Building 460). Join virtually on Teams.
Save the date: World’s largest Nanaimo bar
We invite the entire VIU community to join us on Saturday, May 17 as Baking and Culinary Arts students take on a sweet, record-breaking challenge – creating the world’s largest Nanaimo bar! Watch us bring the record home! This family-friendly event includes:
- a chance to see the record-breaking Nanaimo bar
- a piece of the world’s largest Nanaimo bar to enjoy
- food trucks, games and other fun activities for all ages
For full details, visit World's Largest Nanaimo Bar.
Innergy exhibition 🎨
The View Gallery (Building 330) presents Innergy, the BA in Studio Art graduating student exhibition from April 17 to May 9. Opening reception is April 17 from 6 to 9 pm. The gallery is open Tuesday to Friday, from 10 am to 4 pm during exhibits.
ASIST Workshop 🆘
Gain life-saving skills at the ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) workshop on April 24 and 25. This two-day training, open to staff and students, provides the confidence and tools to support someone at risk of suicide. Free registration!
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