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Indigenous Student Supports

From counselling and advising to visiting with Elders to peer support, there are a number of ways First Nations, Métis and Inuit students can access support at U of G. 

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Indigenous Student Advising

The Indigenous Student Advisor is here to support you and walk beside you throughout your learning journey here at the University of Guelph. Here are some of the ways the Indigenous Student Advisor can assist you:

  • Personal Matters
  • Academics
  • Tutoring
  • Finances
  • Culture and identity
  • and more...

Please reach out to the Indigenous Student Advisor with any questions you have as you navigate your time at the U of G.

hands holding red pouch

Counselling Services

First Nations, Métis and Inuit students can access Counselling Services in the JT Powell Building. They offer individual and group counselling to support students as they work through the personal challenges that affect their ability to succeed at school and in other areas of their lives. If you have questions about accessing counselling support, you can discuss them with the Indigenous Student Advisor.

JT Powell Building

Cultural Advising & Supports

The ISC works with a variety of Elders and Knowledge Holders to provide personal consultation, conversation, guidance and mentorship to Indigenous students and the campus community

Elders and Knowledge Holders hold a significant role in First Nations, Inuit and Métis cultures. In the community, they are considered to be respected leaders, advisors, teachers, and caregivers. They possess a wealth of knowledge, skills, life experience and wisdom that they are eager to share with the younger generations. 

Elders and Knowledge Holders are available at the Indigenous Student Centre to provide personal consultation, conversation, guidance and mentorship to First Nations, Métis & Inuit students and the campus community. They engage with students using a variety of methods including one-on-one sessions, group meetings or classes, sharing or teaching circles, storytelling and ceremony.

The Indigenous Student Centre is able to provide connections for Elders and Knowledge Holders to guest lecture, speak on a variety of topics, and provide openings, prayers, or drumming at events. Email elders@uoguelph.ca  for more information.

Let us know and we'll do our best to connect you with someone from the Guelph area. Log in to read the profiles of our Elders, Knowledge Holders and Community Helpers.

smudge and eagle feather

Sharing Circles

These Circles are organized for all interested, self-identified First Nations, Inuit and Métis students. The Circles will be facilitated either by the Indigenous Student Advisor, another member of the ISC Team, or by our community Elders, Helpers and Knowledge Holders.

If you are interested in attending or learning more about sharing circles, please contact the Indigenous Student Advisor at at indigenous.student@uoguelph.ca

Students sitting on couch smudging

After Hours Resources

Indigenous Students outside

Additional Resources