New Student Orientation
Get ready to kick off your VIU journey with RockVIU: New Student Orientation! This is your chance to explore campus, meet faculty, connect with new friends and discover all the resources available to help you succeed. Activities start on January 5, 2026. Read on to learn more!
Questions? Email welcometocampus@viu.ca. For more info, check out our pre-arrival checklist on the Ready, Set, Go website.
RockVIU Schedule
January 5
Campus Adventures
Our interactive, guided campus tours are led by seasoned students who will help you get familiar with VIU's layout, facilities, services and student life. Tours are about an hour in length and start in front of the Welcome Centre (Building 300 on the Nanaimo campus). You will receive a separate email confirming your tour group and start time.
January 6
Culture Couch
4 to 6 pm
Culture Couch is a weekly, student-led event where students share traditional snacks, drinks, music and conversations. It's a fun, casual way to learn about different cultures and meet new people. The first Culture Couch of the year, Welcome to Canada, takes place in Shq'apthut (Building 170).
January 8
Movie Night
7:30 to 10 pm
Join us for an exciting evening of games, snacks and a great movie - Spiderman Homecoming! Dressing up is highly encouraged. Prizes awarded for the best costume, so don't hold back! Spaces limited, so sign up now!
January 9
Pep Rally
time TBC
Get ready to bring the energy! The Pep Rally, hosted by the VIU Mariners varsity athletics and the VIU Students' Union, will be packed with spirit and excitement. More details to come.
January 14
Winter Connect Fair
11 am to 2 pm
Connect directly with on-campus supports and resources. Sample traditional hot beverages from around the world and play interactive games and activities.
VIU's Got Talent
Think you’ve got what it takes to wow the crowd and win $500 tuition credit?
VIU’s Got Talent is an annual event held at Vancouver Island University where students and faculty have the opportunity to display their talents. Audition by sending in a short video of your talent, singing, dancing, comedy, magic or anything that makes you stand out. The most impressive performers will be invited to compete live on the VIU’s Got Talent stage in front of judges and a cheering audience.
Finalists will have 8-10 minutes to perform for the spotlight and the top three acts will take home amazing prizes and serious bragging rights!
Don’t miss your chance to be part of VIU’s biggest showcase of creativity and talent!
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