7 top resources for new students

If you’re one of the thousands of new students heading to MacEwan University’s campus over the next few weeks, we can’t wait to meet you! We also know you probably have a lot on your mind, so we’ve put together a few tips, some great resources and a lot of fantastic advice from people who walked through MacEwan’s doors for the first time not long ago.

1. Start at the beginning

MacEwan.ca/GettingStarted has an excellent checklist for what to do before classes begin – find out how to get your student ID card, purchase your textbooks, activate your U-Pass, register your locker and more!

2. Meet your mentor

Join the Community Nest program, and a senior student – , known as a nest leader – , will connect you with other students and share their insights about being a student at MacEwan University. Your nest leader coordinates activities, such as monthly social gatherings and weekly get-togethers, to ease your transition to university.

You can register for this program at any time during your first year.

Don’t be afraid to ask the classmate next to you for their name, email, phone number or social media – it helps to have friends socially and academically! Everyone in university could use another friend, so don’t be shy!

Mila Verbicky, Bachelor of Science, Psychology ’24

3. Learn the lingo

University has a language all its own. Bookmark this quick reference that breaks down the differences between the academic calendar and academic schedule, a faculty and a program, and so much more

4. Get free money

University is one of the biggest financial commitments you’ll ever make, but there are ways to make paying for your education easier. Follow these 6 steps to boost your chances of receiving a scholarship, award or bursary.

5. Know where to go for help

From academic advising and counselling to financial aid and the library, there are lots of services designed to give students the help they need. Get to know the many ways MacEwan faculty and staff can lend a hand.

No one wants things to go wrong, but sometimes they just do. Be prepared and get a jump on tech trouble with these 5 answers to students’ top tech problems. Check out these tips from our Security Services team on doing your part to make sure MacEwan stays a safe and positive campus. And keep an eye out for these 7 signs you might need help from a counsellor and where to find it.

Take advantage of everything the university has to offer – co-ops, study abroad, SAMU events like Fall Fest, and support services like academic or career advising. I really wish that I had taken advantage of these things earlier in my university experience. Take every opportunity to grow and become more!

Anett Ferenczi, Bachelor of Commerce, Marketing ’24

6. Study smart

Classes may not have started yet, but things tend to happen at a blistering pace when they do. Here are some study habits for A students and some new insights on whether using AI in your coursework is okay.

Never shy away from asking for help or clarity from your professors. They are on your side.

Victoria Hoang, Bachelor of Applied Human Service Administration ’24

7. Find some fun!

Yes, university is a lot of work, but finding time to squeeze in some fun is important too. Kick off the year with our annual Downtown Campus Block Party and SAMU Fall Fest, and keep your eye out for great events throughout the year with SAMU’s student groups, MacEwan.ca/Events, and plasma screens and bulletin boards across campus!

Read the bulletin boards and find out what is happening. MacEwan University and SAMU know how to put on some amazing events.

Harkaran Kaur Singh, Bachelor of Commerce, Legal Studies in Business ’24

Let’s stay in touch!