STM College welcomes new students at orientation session

Entering students hear tips for achieving success, learn about opportunities

By Paul Sinkewicz

Faculty and staff welcomed a new crop of STM students to the College on Thursday, Aug. 31 during an Orientation Session that included tips, tricks and pizza.

The incoming students heard about the opportunities available to them as STM students, and about the types of supports the College offers, as well as academic tips from three faculty members.

An overarching message delivered was to get involved in clubs and events and to explore the scholarships and bursaries available. Both make life at university more enjoyable, said Richard Medernach, Manager of Student Experience and Enrolment.

Medernach, along with Dean Schmidt and Linda Huard serve as Academic Advisors at STM, and help guide the academic journies of STM students from the Main Office where the advising rooms are located. Students looking for advice will find an open door, free snacks and expert guidance.

The session included words from St. Thomas More Students' Union (STMSU) President Abbi Cross and recent graduate Tay Spock. They urged the attendees to get involved with clubs and events at STM to maximize their enjoyment of College life. Also to take advantage of the STMSU advocacy avialable to them and to apply for the STM scholarships and bursaries that are open to all self-declared STM students (along with all the regular USask offerings).

Associate Dean Gerry Farthing hosted a panel of professors on hand to give an insight to academics at STM. Daniel Regier (Philosophy), Saeed Moshiri (Economics) and Sarah Powrie (English), each took a turn speaking and answering questions.

The STM Campus Ministry team was also on hand to welcome newcomers of all faiths to take advantage of the chapel and Campus Ministry services, as well as to participate in the Newman Club, STM Peer Health Mentors and Just Youth. Campus Ministers include Gertrude Rompré, Michael McLean, Fr. Andre Lalach and Celeste Woloschuk, all of whom have offices on the second floor in the hallway across from the STM Chapel.

The day ended with a free pizza lunch, tours of the building and best wishes for a great first year at STM Coilege.

Michelle Gall, STM Student Recruitment intern, Celeste Woloschuk, Campus Minister, and Linda Huard, Recruitment Officer and Academic Advisor, wait to greet students to the 2023 Orientation Session.

Refreshments were on hand for our eager first-year students

Richard Medernach is Manager of Student Experience and Enrolment

Dean Schmidt is Student Academic Services Specialist and the person to talk to about scholarships and bursaries

Linda Huard has a wealth of knowledge about all things STM and is one of our friendly Academic Advisors

Taylor Spock (right) graduated last year and shared her advice with newcomers in a session with STMSU President Abbi Cross

Entering students listen to presentations at the Orientation Session

Associate Dean Gerry Farthing (from left) introduces professors Daniel Regnier, Saeed Moshiri and Sarah Powrie.

Sarah Powrie speaks about challenges ahead with Artificial Intelligence in the university setting

The Campus Ministry Team of Fr. Andre Lalach, Celeste Woloschuk, Gertrude Rompré and Michael McLean

Campus Minister Michael McLean invites students to take part in clubs and activities

Lunch time brought some much-needed nourishment in the form of pizza

STMSU President Abbi Cross chats with new STM students over lunch

Smiles all around after a great Orientation Session to start off 2023