Indigenous Student Supports

From mainstream counselling to visiting with Elders, there are a number of ways First Nations, Métis and Inuit students (both undergraduate and graduate) can access support. This can be an informal chat or something more structured, depending on your comfort.

Whether you're having a bad day, have received unexpected news, or have been wrestling with something for a long time, you don't have to deal with it alone. Everyone experiences confusion and uncertainty sometimes.

The support provided through the Indigenous Student Centre can be a chance to talk things through, seek advice or simply share with someone who will respect the challenges you're experiencing.

Indigenous Student Advising

The Indigenous Student Advisor is here to support you and walk beside you throughout your learning journey here at the University of Guelph. Here are some of the ways the Indigenous Student Advisor can assist you:

Personal Matters
Academics
Tutoring
Finances
Culture and identity
and more...

Please reach out to the Indigenous Student Advisor with any questions you have as you navigate your time at the U of G.

Counselling Services

First Nations, Métis and Inuit students can access Counselling Services in the JT Powell Building. They offer individual and group counselling to support students as they work through the personal challenges that affect their ability to succeed at school and in other areas of their lives. If you have questions about accessing counselling support, you can discuss them with the Indigenous Student Advisor.

Cultural Advising & Supports

The ISC works with a variety of Elders and Knowledge Holders to provide personal consultation, conversation, guidance and mentorship to Indigenous students and the campus community

Elders and Knowledge Keepers hold a significant role in First Nations, Inuit and Métis cultures. In the community, they are considered to be respected leaders, advisors, teachers, and caregivers. They possess a wealth of knowledge, skills, life experience and wisdom that they are eager to share with the younger generations.

Elders and Knowledge Keepers are available at the Indigenous Student Centre to provide personal consultation, conversation, guidance and mentorship to First Nations, Métis & Inuit students and the campus community. They engage with students using a variety of methods including one-on-one sessions, group meetings or classes, sharing or teaching circles, storytelling and ceremony.

The Indigenous Student Centre is able to provide connections for Elders and Knowledge Keepers to guest lecture, speak on a variety of topics, and provide openings, prayers, or drumming at events. Email elders@uoguelph.ca for more information.

Let us know and we'll do our best to connect you with someone from the Guelph area. Log in to read the profiles of our Elders, Knowledge Keepers and Community Helpers.

If you are interested in attending or learning more about sharing circles, please contact the Indigenous Student Advisor at at indigenous.student@uoguelph.ca