Keltie Jones, smiling for the camera. Beside the photo is white text on a blue background that reads, "A message from Keltie Jones, JD, DBA, Associate Vice-President, Student Experience at MSVU"

Dear MSVU students,

A warm welcome (or welcome back) to Mount Saint Vincent University!

Our mission in Student Experience is to provide you with the best possible supports so you can make the most of your time as a student. As you get started on your new courses and (for some) settle into new “homes away from home”, here are 5 things you should know.

Jessica Ferguson, one of the Academic Advisors, meeting with a student

1. Your academic advisors are here to support you NOW.

Get to know the team in the Centre for Academic Advising and Student Success (or CAASS) – Academic Advisors, a Learning Strategist, the Writing Centre, and Mount Mentors. They are here to help you plan your program and succeed. Everyone should connect with an Advisor! From September 2 to 10, they will be offering 30-minute, same-day academic advising appointments for students who need help with course selection and scheduling, course changes, graduation requirement checks, and questions related to the Fall term. These appointments can be booked by calling 902-457-6657 or dropping by Seton Academic Centre Room 303 on the day you want the appointment.

Several students watching a MSVU Mystics game outdoors, wearing MSVU Mystics clothing and holding signs that say, "We Love MSVU" and "Go Mystics Go!"

2. There’s tons of fun to be had at MSVU.

Maybe you’ll tryout for one of our Varsity teams, or show your MSVU pride cheering them on at games? Or you can borrow an e-bike through the university’s e-bike rental program; check out the exhibits in the Art Gallery; join in student society events, university special events, Residence Life events; and more. Captain’s Calendar is a great source for student event information.

 

The Seton Academic Centre, looked at overhead through a Drone. There is a student walking towards the building

3. You can find great part-time jobs right here on campus.

Our Student Works program offers some excellent on-campus job opportunities for students at MSVU. The program is open to undergraduate and graduate students who demonstrate financial need. Apply now via Career Connects (log-in required).

Todd Hunter and Jacqueline Greenough, two of the MSVU Counsellors, standing beside the Counselling Services Banner.

4. Your wellness matters.

Balancing school, work, social life, and other responsibilities can be a lot. Take care of yourself by leaning in to supports including, for example, Counselling Services, the Black Student Support Office, the Indigenous Student Centre, and Health Office.

MSVU SAFE app icon with mobile display

5. The MSVU SAFE App and Mount Alerts are safety must-haves.

Mount Alert notifies the campus community of urgent safety threats or closures (like storms – it’s the best way to know when you have a snow day!). Alerts are sent to your @msvu.ca email, but it’s highly recommended to add text and phone notifications.

The MSVU SAFE App is a free safety tool with features like “virtual walk home” and “mobile blue light,” allowing you to quickly share your location and request help from MSVU Security.

Learn more about Safety and Security at MSVU, including the university’s Policy Against Sexual Violence

Full list of services

The links above are just a sample of the extensive services here at MSVU. Check out our A to Z list of services and be in touch when you need us.

You can also drop me a line any time or stop by for a visit (Evaristus Hall Room 201E).

Have a wonderful year!

Keltie

Keltie Jones, JD, DBA,
Associate Vice-President, Student Experience
Mount Saint Vincent University