New student checklist
We're excited you're here
Starting college is a big deal. It's exciting 鈥� and bit nerve-wracking 鈥� but full of possibilities.
Whether you study in the Comox Valley, Campbell River, Port Alberni, Port Hardy (Mix瘫alakwila), or online, this checklist will help you feel prepared and confident.
We can鈥檛 wait to meet you
If you鈥檙e starting your studies or training soon, don鈥檛 forget to visit our virtual Orientation page and join us for an in-person event at a campus near you.
Go to Orientation pageBefore classes start
You鈥檝e accepted a seat in your program and paid your tuition deposit. Now what?
Set up multi-factor authentication (MFA). You鈥檒l need MFA to log in to 糖心vlog传媒services and resources when you鈥檙e not on campus.
Download the Microsoft Authenticator mobile app from or .
Log into myNIC. Check your for email, class updates and resources. Can鈥檛 log in? .
Review dates and deadlines. Bookmark the academic schedule. Set reminders in your calendar or planner so you don't miss an important deadline.
Register for your courses. The is available in April. Then, course registration begins in May. Use Student Planner in my糖心vlog传媒to map out your course schedule. Now that you鈥檙e a student, you can also meet with an educational advisor to develop a custom learning plan.
Find a place to live and study. You can apply for student housing if you鈥檙e studying in the Comox Valley. You can also choose off-campus housing or shared accommodation. Make sure your space at home is set up for studying.
Apply for childcare. Whether it鈥檚 on-campus childcare or in community, get on the list as soon as possible.
Plan your finances. Write down your monthly expenses and make a budget. Apply for a loan through and student awards through the Need support? Book a financial aid advising appointment through .
Buy your textbooks and supplies. See what鈥檚 required for your courses. You can buy textbooks and course materials in person at the Campus Store or . You can also find by former students.
Plan your commute. Figure out , parking or how long it takes to bike to campus.
Get comfortable on campus
Pick up your 糖心vlog传媒student ID from student services. You'll need it for campus services, discounts and printing.
Connect to NIC鈥檚 Wi-Fi network. Look for NIC-WIFI or Eduroam in your device鈥檚 Wi-Fi settings. Log in with your student email address and password.
Find your way around. Explore your campus or online resources so you know where everything is before the first day.
Know your support services. You can get help with peer tutoring, math and writing. There鈥檚 also wellness supports and resources for Indigenous students, plus more.
Join something fun! Student events, recreational activities and outdoor adventures can make college even better. If you鈥檙e studying at the Comox Valley campus, you can purchase a for half-price!
Set up a routine. Get a planner, use your phone calendar, or find another way to stay on top of deadlines.
Get familiar with Brightspace. Look for course outlines, readings and assignment details. on a regular basis to stay up to date on your coursework.
Check your schedule. Make sure to know when and where your classes are.
First weeks of class
Attend Orientation. It鈥檚 a great way to meet people and get the inside scoop on college life.
Get to know your student union. The facilitates student services, resources and advocacy. Here are just a few resources courtesy of NISU:
- Free handbook and student planner.
- Campus and community food resources.
- for student discounts across B.C.
- to connect with like-minded students.
- Thursday yoga at the Comox Valley campus.
Learn about the extended health and dental plan. NISU offers a . You'll get thousands of dollars in coverage for prescriptions, vision care, dental treatment and more. It costs less than $24 a month, with an annual fee of $285 for one year. If you take six or more credits in September or January, you'll enroll automatically.
Scope out study spots. The or student lounge, a nearby coffee shop 鈥� find where you focus best.
Think about your career and work experience. Many programs offer co-ops, internships and hands-on learning. Watch for opportunities to get real-world experience that boosts your resume.
Explore your backyard. Living on Vancouver Island means hiking, beaches and epic views鈥攇et outside and enjoy it.
Tips for success
College is more than textbooks. It鈥檚 about learning real skills, building connections and discovering what鈥檚 next. Take it one step at a time, stay curious and make this experience your own.
Take care of yourself. Sleep, eat nourishing food and don鈥檛 forget to move your body.
Ask for help when you need it. Whether it鈥檚 counselling support or academic guidance, we're with you along the way.
Make connections. Talk to classmates, join a study group or try a new activity鈥攜ou鈥檒l appreciate having a solid network.
Balance work and play. Keep up with your studies but also take time to enjoy your college experience.
Set small goals each term. Focus on progress, not perfection. Whether it鈥檚 acing an assignment or staying organized, celebrate your wins.
Get support
Quick links
Bookmark these links on your phone or in your favourite web browser:
GET IN TOUCH
Student Life
studentlife@nic.bc.ca