Diversity and Immigrant Student Support

Welcome!

Diversity and ImmigrantStudent Support

College Preparation and Orientation Program After being accepted into a College program, new immigrant and international students can receive information about financial aid and scholarships, College services and procedures, and any other resources they may need to prepare for their first day of classes.

Prior to the first day of classes, students have the opportunity to attend the Immigrant and International Student Orientation where they will receive information about College programs and services, a campus tour, and presentations about the Canadian classroom and local culture. The Orientation is also a great way to meet other students and make new friends!

Advising Services Immigrant and international students can meet with a Student Integration Coordinator to receive advising and support for any cultural, financial, settlement, language, academic, or personal challenge they may have while attending classes.

Student Integration Coordinators support all students with resources and strategies to increase their cross-cultural skills and awareness.

Student Integration Notre Dame Campus and Stevenson Campus:Contact: (204) 631-3309Exchange District Campus, Language Training Centre, and Regional Campuses:Contact: (204) 631-3345

This program provides immigrant and international students with both on and off campus opportunities to experience cultural, social and recreational activities, engage in College life, and connect with the Winnipeg community.

The Program also provides College-wide opportunities to enhance diversity awareness and build connections and understanding across cultures.

Student Life Contact: (204) 631-3345

Campus Life

• Multicultural Potluck Exchange

• Friday Movies at the Centre for Immigrant and International Students

• Group outings to College-wide events and RRC Rebels sports team games

College-Wide Activities

• Annual Welcome Party for Immigrant and International Students

• Annual Soccer Tournament

• Diversity Events

Community Life

• Free tickets and opportunities to visit Winnipeg’s local festivals, cultural attractions, and wilderness areas

• Volunteer opportunities

• Manitoba tourism resources

FIND OUT MORE!https://go.rrc.ca/StudentServices/Diversity/startingcollege/default.aspxhttps://go.rrc.ca/StudentServices/Diversity/advising/default.aspx

FIND OUT MORE:https://go.rrc.ca/StudentServices/Diversity/studentlife/default.aspx

The Diversity and Immigrant Student Support department provides all students at Red River College with the chance to participate in mentor programs that can enhance their College experience and help prepare them for a successful transition into their Canadian career.

Mentor Programs Contact: (204) 632-3847

CHECK OUT THE MENTOR PROGRAM VIDEOCultural and Language Mentor Program:http://vimeo.com/22249287

Cultural and Language Mentor ProgramThis is a Local and Global partnership that pairs immigrant and international students with a Canadian–raised student or staff for friendship, English language practice and cross-cultural exchange. Students from all academic programs can apply.

For immigrant and international students, this is a great way to understand Canadian culture while sharing some of their experiences with a Canadian-raised student.

For Canadian-raised students, this is a great opportunity to learn more about the world outside Canada and develop their leadership skills.

Commitment is 10 hours of time over 10 weeks and the program starts at the beginning of the fall and the winter academic terms.

Professional Mentor Programs In partnership with academic departments, these programs help students gain knowledge about Canadian workplace culture while expanding their professional networks through mentorship in their professional field.

Opportunities can include one-to-one mentoring, group mentoring, practice-interviews and workshops. Start times vary throughout the year.

Contact the Mentor Program Coordinator for more information about these programs or to develop a Professional Mentorship Program for an academic program area.

Give.Make a difference in another’s life by sharing your time, energy and knowledge.

Gain.Increase your confidence, enhance yourskills, and make new friends and contacts.

Grow.Experience personal and professional growth through a rewarding partnership that benefits everyone!

Give. Gain. Grow.BE A MENTOR!

COllEGE MENTOR APPlICATION FORMs:https://go.rrc.ca/StudentServices/Diversity/mentorprograms/default.aspx

Step Out of Your Box Diversity Scholarship Contest

In partnership with the RRC Students’ Association, this contest awards $500, $300, and $200 annually to three students who spend time exploring diversity in their community and produce a project describing the benefits of diversity in Canada and their personal learning from the experience.

Diversity Award for Refugee Students

This scholarship awards $500 annually to a current RRC student who entered Canada as a refugee. The award is aimed at recognizing a refugee student who has shown courage, determination and perseverance in reaching their educational goals, while overcoming challenges and adapting to a new life in Canada.

Diversity Volunteer Scholarships

Immigrant students can volunteer 100 hours of time with the department and earn a $500 scholarship.

Diversity Scholarships Contact: (204) 949-8393

The Diversity and Immigrant Student Support department offers financial support to immigrant, international and Canadian students at Red River College.

The Centre for Immigrant and International Students is a

gathering place for all students to relax, study, learn, and

meet other students from around the world.

The Centre offers free workshops about Canadian culture,

College skills, and Canadian workplace culture.

Come to the Centre for social and recreational activities

and to make new friends.

Everyone is welcome!

sCHOlARsHIPs ENTRY FORMs:https://go.rrc.ca/StudentServices/Diversity/scholarships/default.aspx

VIsIT THE CENTRE!The Centre is located in Building D, Room 208,Notre Dame Campus (2055 Notre Dame Avenue)Visit the Centre Mondays to Fridays from 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

Centre for Immigrant and International StudentsBuilding D, Room 208, Notre Dame Campus | Contact: (204) 949-8393

Cross Cultural Consultation Services

Consultation services are also available to faculty, staff, and departments on a variety of

diversity-related issues including addressing cross-cultural challenges in the classroom,

strategies to assist immigrant and international students be successful, inclusive teaching

strategies, resolution of cross-cultural misunderstandings, and strategies to create and

maintain an inclusive and respectful classroom environment.

Diversity and inclusive learning environment workshops for staff and faculty

The department provides leadership and support to the College on

the development of inclusive learning environments that are respectful

of diversity.

• Customized workshops on practical strategies to teach a diverse

student body are delivered to faculty.

• Customized workshops on working with cultural differences are delivered to staff.

Diversity Services for Faculty and Staff Contact: (204) 632-2016

This program supports immigrant and international students in their integration into the

Canadian College environment and their transition from College to the Canadian workplace.

3 Skills Development Areas:

• Cross-Cultural Skills • College Skills • Workplace Skills

3 Delivery Formats:

• Schedule of Workshops at the Centre for Immigrant and International Students

(Notre Dame Campus)

• Made to Order in-classroom workshops across campuses

at the request of faculty

• Intercultural Skills Online with learning modules

in the College Portal

This program also offers Diversity Workshops to assist all students

in academic programs to develop valuable cross-cultural understanding, knowledge and skills to

work effectively in today’s global work environment.

Delivery Format:

• Made to Order in-classroom workshops across

campuses at the request of faculty

Intercultural SkillsContact: (204) 632-2404

INTERCUlTURAl sKIlls ONlINE:www.rrc.ca/interculturalskills

Intercultural Skills Contact: (204) 632-2404

Living in a New CultureAcross cultures, people have developed their own values and behaviours which allow them to understand and interpret the world around them. Students will learn some of the cultural differences that exist between Canada and other areas of the world.• Perceptions and Assumptions• Cultural Shock• Cultural Iceberg• Cultural Values and Worldviews• Dimensions of Diversity

Fall: September 11, 2012 - Winter: January 15, 2013

Managing Cross-Cultural Differences in CanadaIntercultural competence is required to study, work and live in Manitoba. Students will learn how to be aware and sensitive of cross-cultural differences and respond effectively when interacting with people from different backgrounds.• Intercultural Competence • Intercultural Awareness, Skills and Sensitivity• Stereotypes and Generalizations• Intention and Perception• Responding to unexpected cultural behaviours


Canadian Communication SkillsEvery culture favours different communication styles. Students will learn how to express ideas clearly and concisely, and communicate confidently with Canadian classmates, colleagues and friends.• Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication• The Pyramid Style of Communication• Phrases for Success• Do’s and Don’ts in Small Talk• Slang, Idioms and Texting• Body Language: Gestures, Eye Contact, Greetings, Personal Space


Giving and Receiving Feedback in CanadaIn Canada, giving and receiving feedback is expected. It is not considered to be offensive or disloyal. Students will learn common feedback techniques in Canada.• Concept of Feedback• Accepting Constructive Criticism• Cultural Comparisons of Feedback• The Feedback Sandwich• The Four Stages of Feedback


Understanding Aboriginal Culture in ManitobaAbout 16% of Manitoba’s total population is composed of Aboriginal People. Students will learn about the important cultural and social contribution of Aboriginal People to Manitoba today as well as their past and present challenges.• Aboriginal Communities: First Nations, Inuit and Métis• Diversity of Traditions • Heritage and History• Current Challenges of Aboriginal People in Manitoba


Successful Study Skills in a Canadian CollegeStudents will learn about the services and support available to them from the Academic Success Centre. Students will also be introduced to practical strategies for academic success in a new cultural environment.• Class Presentations• Grading and Assessment Methods• Multiple Choice Questions• Studying Strategies• EAL Supports• Stress, Anxiety and Time Management• Computer useFall: September 27, 2012 - Winter: January 31, 2013

Do’s and Don’ts in a Canadian ClassroomEducational systems and teaching methods are different from one country to another. What is acceptable in one culture may or may not be acceptable in another culture. Students will learn about the differences that may affect them during their studies at Red River College.• Academic Culture Shock• Student/Instructor Roles and Relationship• Student/Student Relationship• Student Participation in Class• Group Work Dynamics• Concept of PlagiarismFall: October 2, 2012 - Winter: February 5, 2013

Academic Integrity in CanadaEvery student must be honest and accurate in their work in the Canadian classroom. Plagiarism and other forms of academic misconduct are serious matters. Students will learn rules to follow when studying, writing exams and preparing assignments.• Academic Integrity• Forms of Academic Misconduct• Plagiarism• Effects of Academic DishonestyFall: October 4, 2012 - Winter: February 7, 2013

Working in Diverse Groups in CanadaGroup work is used very often in the Canadian classroom. Students will learn how to communicate effectively with their team members, and how to succeed when working in groups.• Why Group Work• Individualism and Collectivism• Direct and Indirect Communication Styles• People Focus or Task Focus• Strategies for working with people from different cultures• Establishing Group Work Rules• The Language of Group WorkFall: October 9, 2012 - Winter: February 12, 2013

Making Friends and Getting Involved at CollegeFor a newcomer to Winnipeg, it can be difficult to make new friends and feel comfortable at the College. Students will learn practical strategies to create great new friendships and participate at College.• Tips on Making Friends• Getting Involved at the College• Student Life Program • The Students’ AssociationFall: October 11, 2012 - Winter: February 14, 2013

CROss–CUlTURAl sKIlls IN CANADAD208 NOTRE DAME CAMPUS – FROM 12:00 NOON to 1:00 PM

COllEGE sKIlls IN CANADAD208 NOTRE DAME CAMPUS – FROM 12:00 NOON to 1:00 PM

Workplace Values in CanadaSoft skills are personal attributes that enhance your interactions, job performance and career prospects. Students will learn what values are appreciated and encouraged in the Canadian workplace.• Understanding Organizational Culture• Leadership and Initiative, Demonstrating Confidence, Conflict Resolution and Negotiation, Flexibility, Equality and Respect• Establishing Professionalism and Demonstrating Credibility• Business Etiquette: Time and Punctuality; Calling in Sick or Late; Dress Code

Fall: October 30, 2012 -Winter: March 5, 2013

The Value of Networking and VolunteeringMany available jobs in Canada are not advertised. Students will learn how networking and volunteering can be effective tools in their job search and may actually lead to a job.• Concept of Networking and Volunteering in Canada• Hidden Job Market• Establishing Contacts• Network of Contacts• Communicating with Contacts

Fall: November 1, 2012 - Winter: March 7, 2013

Job Search and Internet Employment Resources*

Job search goes beyond reading the job ads in the local newspaper.Students will learn job search resources that can assist them in their professional career.• Get to know yourself• Research of industry and companies• Visible and Hidden Market• Job Search Marketing Tools • Job Search Tips


Understanding Job Ads and Resume Writing*

Having a solid resume can greatly improve the chances of obtaining the job we want. Students will learn how to analyze job ads and create effective resumes.• Customize Cover Letter and Resume• Resume as a Marketing Tool• Types of Resumes and Resume Components• Resume Do’s and Don’ts


Interview Skills and Personal Presentation*

Interviewing is a key component when looking for a job in Canada. Students will learn common interview questions, ways to respond in a culturally appropriate manner, and how to present themselves during the interview.• Purpose of the Job Interview• Types of Interviews• Preparing for the Interview• Types of Interview Questions and Effective Answers (BAR)• Personal Presentation and Body Language• Job Interview Follow-Up


* In partnership with Student Employment Services

Intercultural and Diversity AwarenessAcross cultures, people have developed their own values and behaviours which allow them to understand and interpret the world around them. Students will learn some of the cultural differences that exist between Canada and other areas of the world.

• Perceptions and Assumptions

• Cultural Iceberg

• Cultural Values and Worldviews

• Dimensions of Diversity

• Intercultural Communication

• Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication Strategies

• Diversity Strategies for Success

Communication across CulturesEvery culture favours different communication styles. Students will learn how to express ideas clearly and communicate confidently with classmates, colleagues and friends across cultures.

• Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication

• Direct and Indirect Communication Styles

• Body Language

• Concept of Feedback

• Cultural Comparisons of Feedback

Managing Cross-Cultural Differences in CanadaIntercultural competence is required to study, work and live in today’s global environment. Students will learn how to be aware and sensitive of cross-cultural differences and respond effectively when interacting with people from different backgrounds.

• Intercultural Competence

• Intercultural Awareness, Skills and Sensitivity

• Stereotypes and Generalizations

• Intention and Perception

• Responding to unexpected cultural behaviours

Working in Diverse Groups in CanadaGroup work is used very often in the Canadian classroom. Students will learn how to communicate effectively with their team members from different cultural backgrounds, and how to succeed when working in diverse groups.

• Why Group Work

• Individualism and Collectivism

• Direct and Indirect Communication Styles

• People Focus or Task Focus

• Strategies for working with people from different cultures

• Establishing Group Work Rules

Academic IntegrityEvery student must be honest and accurate in their work in the Canadian classroom. Plagiarism and other forms of academic misconduct are serious matters. Students will learn rules to follow when studying, writing exams and preparing assignments.

• Academic Integrity

• Forms of Academic Misconduct

• Plagiarism

• Effects of Academic Dishonesty

Faculty can request any of these workshops to be delivered in classrooms across campuses. Workshops can be customized based on students’ needs.

WORKPlACE sKIlls IN CANADAD208 NOTRE DAME CAMPUS – FROM 12:00 NOON to 1:00 PM

DIVERsITY WORKsHOPs FOR All sTUDENTs

The LGBTT* Initiative at Red River College fosters the development of a safe environment on our campuses so everyone has the chance to work, learn and access services in an inclusive and welcoming manner.

The LGBTT* Initiative provides educational opportunities and resources to build communication, understanding and respect for diversity throughout the College.

This is an initiative for all Red River College students, staff and faculty.

The LGBTT* Initiative coordinates:

• Ally Trainings and Ally Practice Sessions

• LGBTT* Awareness Workshops

• LGBTT* Online Site and LGBTT* Blog

• Educational Publications and Resources

• College and Community Educational Events

LGBTT* Initiative Contact (204) 632-2404

FOR MORE INFORMATION:LGBTT* Online Site: www.rrc.ca/LGBTTLGBTT* Blog: http://blogs.rrc.ca/lgbtt

lGBTT* MEANINGThe acronymn LGBTT* represents lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, two-spirit, and other people who are marginalized in society because of any aspect of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Prospective immigrant students interested in attending Red River College can contact the Diversity and Immigrant Student Support department for general questions about College programs, processes for crediting previous education or work experience, financial supports, language training and settlement supports.

Prospective StudentsContact (204) 949-8393

NOTRE DAME CAMPUS OFFICE: Building D, Room 206 – 2055 Notre Dame Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3H 0J9 - Fax: (204) 632-4225

EXCHANGE DISTRICT CAMPUS OFFICE: Massey Building, Office 103 – 294 William Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3B 0R1 - Fax: (204) 942-1497

FOR GENERAL INQUIRIES: Please call (204) 632-2016 ore-mail [email protected]

WEBSITE: www.rrc.ca/diversity

STAFF COLLEGE PORTAL: https://go.rrc.ca/information/Services/Pages/Diversity.aspx

STUDENT COLLEGE PORTAL: https://go.rrc.ca/StudentServices/Diversity/default.aspx

Diversity and Immigrant Student Support – Red River College

FOR MORE INFORMATION:www.rrc.ca/advisingservices

Documents

Diversity and Immigrant Student Support