Building Community
Find your community at uLethbridge
Moving to a new country and starting university is a big transition. Getting involved outside the classroom can help you meet people, build friendships, learn about Canadian life, maintain connections with your own culture, and feel more at home at uLethbridge.
You don't need to know anyone or have experience to get involved. Whether you have five minutes between classes or want to take on a leadership role, there are opportunities for you.
Start with one small step
- Attend an event.
- Join a student club.
- Meet a peer mentor.
- Try a recreation activity.
- Volunteer at an event.
- Talk to someone in your class.
- Visit the International Centre.
- Participate in an intercultural activity.
- Share your culture with the campus community.
You don't have to choose between Canadian culture and your own culture. University is an opportunity to share your experiences while learning from others.
Student clubs are a great way to meet people who share your interests.
You might find clubs related to:
- Academic programs and careers
- Culture and languages
- Faith and spirituality
- Arts and music
- Sports and recreation
- Games and hobbies
- Social causes and advocacy
- Volunteering and community service
- Professional development
Not sure which club is right for you? Try attending a meeting or event before deciding whether to join.
The International Centre provides opportunities for international and domestic students to meet, socialize and learn from one another.
Look for:
- International student events
- Welcome activities
- Social events
- Cultural celebrations
- Peer programs
- Intercultural activities
- Workshops
- Student trips
International Student Mentorship Program
Connect with another student who can help you navigate your transition to uLethbridge and life in Canada.
A mentor can be someone to:
- Ask questions
- Explore campus with
- Attend events with
- Talk to about university life
- Help you meet other students
- Share experiences and advice
You don't need to be struggling to have a mentor. Mentorship is also a great way to expand your social network and meet someone new.
Give back and gain experience
Volunteering is a great way to meet people, contribute to the community and develop skills that can help you academically and professionally.
You can volunteer:
- On campus
- Through student organizations
- At International Centre events
- In the Lethbridge community
- At festivals and cultural events
- With charities and non-profit organizations
- At sporting and community events
Why volunteer?
Volunteering can help you:
Meet people
Build relationships outside your classes.
Develop skills
Practice communication, teamwork, leadership and organization.
Explore careers
Learn more about organizations and industries that interest you.
Build your résumé
Canadian employers often value community involvement and transferable skills.
Feel connected
Contributing to your community can help you feel more at home.
Get active and meet people
You don't have to be an athlete to participate in recreation.
Consider:
- Fitness programs
- Intramural sports
- Drop-in recreation
- Outdoor activities
- Walking and hiking
- Fitness classes
- Campus recreation events
Recreation can be particularly helpful if you're looking for a low-pressure way to meet people.
Your culture is part of our campus community
One of the best ways to get involved is to share your own culture, experiences, language, food, traditions, music or stories with others.
You could:
- Participate in International Education Week
- Attend or help organize cultural events
- Join a cultural student organization
- Volunteer at International Centre events
- Share your experiences as an international student
- Teach someone a few words in your language
- Participate in intercultural activities
- Help welcome new international students
Lethbridge
Southern Alberta Ethnic Association
The Southern Alberta Ethnic Association is a not-for-profit organization with that represents a wide diversity of ethnic societies and clubs in southern Alberta. Find community cultural groups and associations in Lethbridge.
Association of Nigerians in Lethbridge
The Association of Nigerians in Lethbridge (ANL) is a community-based organization dedicated to promoting the cultural, social, and economic interests of Nigerians living in Lethbridge, Alberta.
LethbridgeLink Cultural Groups Listing