Campus Life

Orientation

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The Indigenous Student Centre (ISC) staff are excited to meet you and welcome you to Dalhousie University. Although we offer services, supports, and special events throughout the year, the beginning of fall term will feature some New to Dal orientation programming with new students in mind.

As a new student, it is an important strategy to stay connected. You can connect with the ISC by dropping into the Centre at 1321 Edward Street, or you can connect through our social media channels including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You should also watch for our monthly email, where you will find posts on opportunities, financial awards, and community. If you have any questions, please contact ISC Advisors, Michele Graveline at mgraveline@dal.ca and Kayla Bernard at kayla.bernard@dal.ca.

Keep reading below for ISC events happening this semester for new Indigenous students.

Event Schedule:

September 7

Drum Group

Let's celebrate your voice and the drum. The ISC is looking for Indigenous students interested in learning some songs. We have drums and rattles - we just need you! Sign up today to join our Drum Group on Thursday, September 7 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., Friday, September 15 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., and Wednesday, September 20 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

September 8

Welcome Back/Welcome To BBQ

The ISC invites you to celebrate arriving to campus, or returning back on campus, at our Welcome Back/To Dalhousie BBQ. Get to know our ISC advisors, the Elder, and other folks you will see throughout the year. The BBQ takes place in the back yard of the ISC on September 8 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Fire Circle/Smudging

Join Pipe Carrier/Fire Keeper George Doyle-Bedwell every third week at the ISC for a Fire or Smudging Ceremony. The next events are Friday, September 8 from 12:00 to 4 p.m. and Friday, September 29 from 12:00 to 4 p.m.

September 13

Sacred Medicine Bundles

Join Elder Ann and Michele for this Sacred Bundles session as we prepare a personal medicine bundle. We will be working with stones, plant medicines, and prayers. This event takes place on Wednesday, September 13 from 11:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. Attendees are asked to sign up in advance for this event.

September 14

Traditional vs Modern Gaming

Calling all Indigenous gamers (either casual or serious)! Whether it is Super Smash Bros or the traditional Mi'kmaw game Waltes, we've got games for you. Plus, we'll also have snacks and prizes. Join us at the ISC on Thursday, September 14 from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m for a games day. We'll also be playing Bingo on Thursday, September 28. Games days will be an ongoing event, so keep an eye out for more announcements. 

September 22

Beading Circles

The ISC will host a Beading Circle every other Friday from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m., beginning on September 22. We will have a creative space at the ISC where students of all skill levels can come together to create. The next sessions will be October 6 and October 20.

September 27

Let's Taco About Services

Come enjoy some tacos at the ISC and meet our on-campus partners who spend time weekly at the Centre to support, tutor, and advise students. This event will be held on Wednesday, September 27 from 11:00 a.m to 2:00 p.m.

September 29

Friday Feasts

On the last Friday of each month we gather at the ISC for Friday Feast. The first one of the year is September 29 - stay tuned for more details!

October 18

Mawio'mi

The Dalhousie Mawio’mi was started by a group of Indigenous students wanting to connect and share their culture within the Dalhousie space. Today, the ISC coordinates this event (the largest Indigenous event on campus) annually with the help of community, students, and staff. Each year drummers, dancers, vendors, and other performers gather to celebrate and share culture on the Studley Quad. This year's event will take place on Wednesday, October 18. Stay tuned for more details!