Graduate Programs

RockVIU for graduate students

Grad Student Orientation

Friday, August 29, 2025 | Malaspina Theatre

We look forward to welcoming you to the VIU Nanaimo campus! Grad orientation is your chance to meet students from other programs and learn about everything available to you as a VIU student.

Graduate students are expected to attend the following sessions and may choose from the other activities offered on August 29, based on their needs and interests. 

 

Schedule

10:30 to 11:15 am: Where did you come from? Where are you now? 

In this session, open to all students, you will learn a brief history of our current place, delve into Indigenous protocol, practice a short lesson on the Hul'qumi'num language and be introduced to some Canadian realities.

11:30 am to 12:30 pm: What did you get yourself into?

Start connecting! Meet your Graduate Student Leaders and get to know your group. You will have the opportunity to talk about what to expect in the next weeks and months from someone who knows (your Graduate Student Leader). You will learn about essential resources to help you navigate graduate school and where to find the support you need.

1:30 to 2:15 pm – Grad student mental health and well-being

Learn about the realities faced by students and the resources available at VIU. We will also discuss what we can all do to help and introduce you to some of the activities offered by the Office of Graduate Studies.

Three students play pool at the campus pub

All students welcome

You are invited to take part in the RockVIU events for all students. 

Learn more about the RockVIU event