February 22, 2007 - 4:00pm
“The best in Canada.”
That’s how Malaspina University-College President Dr. Ralph Nilson describes the efforts of Malaspina's International Education departmentwhich received a national award for its Peer Helper program.
Four representatives of International Education - Sheila Swanson, Todd Odgers, Jennifer Jensen-Richards, and international student Kohei Takagi – recently accepted the Lyn Howes award at the annual Canada Language Council conference in Victoria.
The award is presented annually to outstanding programs chosen from across Canada for their commitment to innovation in the delivery of quality English language programs and services.
“Receiving the Lyn Howes Award is one of most amazing things that’s happened during my involvement with the Peer Helper program,” said Takagi, a fourth-year Global Studies student. “Being a peer helper has been a big part of my student life at Malaspina. The fact that our work has been recognized nationally is very memorable.”
Takagi is one of about 45 students who dedicate their time and efforts to the Peer Helper program. The program has helped him build relationships with students, staff and faculty at Malaspina, and increased his confidence in working and helping others.
“When I first arrived at Malaspina from Japan four years ago, it was tough living on my own in a strange country. It wasn’t easy, but I was matched with a peer helper who showed me around campus, helped me register for classes and how to use the library, and many other things. I became a Peer Helper myself because they were such an energetic group and always having a great time. It’s been a great way to make friends.”
The program works because existing students use their positive experiences to support the transition of new international students coming to the Malaspina and Nanaimo communities, said international student activity coordinator Jensen-Richards. “Right now, most of our Peer Helpers are international students who have been helped by the program themselves. Our goal is to expand the program even more to include more Canadian students.”
Each year, Malaspina University-College hosts over 1,000 short-and long-term international students, and is recognized as a leader in international education in Canada.
Bronwyn Jenkins-Deas, Dean of International Education, said the Peer Helper program is one of her department’s “flagships.”
“We’re incredibly proud of the role our students take in helping new international students become comfortable in a new environment,” she said. “We’ve always known that the help they provide to new students is invaluable ."
Nilson said he’s sure many international students remain at Malaspina because of the support they receive from fellow students. “We really do appreciate the efforts of all students involved in the Peer Helper program,” he said. “The national recognition they have received makes this extra special.”
Tags: In the Community
