First Year Survival Guide

Starting university is a big transition- one that can be filled with adventure and challenges along the way, and we’re here to help you make the most of it. This resource guide combines essential information with insider tips to set you up for success in campus life, academics and wellness. 

By Amelie Hamlyn-Lovis Herrera, Program Assistant at the SWC, Level III PNB

The Student Wellness Centre (SWC) is your info and services hub for wellness on campus. Our team provides a range of counseling services, medical care, and health promotion programs to help you thrive both academically and personally at McMaster University. Services are available with no additional costs as they are covered through OHIP/UHIP and student fees. 

• Counselling Services: Mental health resources, individual counselling, single same-day appointments, and group programs. 

• Medical Care: Medical appointments, treatment, referrals, vaccinations, prescriptions, gender affirming care and more 

• Health Promotion: Wellness programs, workshop, resources, & educational campaigns   

• • Keep yourself updated on wellness around campus with our digital blog Wellness@Mac 

• • Wellness Lounge (PGCLL 201): open for all to relax, study, enjoy tea, read, pick up wellness resources, and chat with friends.  

To start off your journey here on campus, check out  the Student Success Centre’s guide to succeed in your first six weeks. 

Campus Life and Housing 

• Watch videos and read articles created by the Student Success Centre’s First Year Experience team  

• Get Familiar with Campus with Virtual Touring 

• Download the Safety App to stay up to date with Mac News 

• Check out FAQ about Living in Mac Residence (scroll to the bottom!) 

• Check out the SWC’s tips for living with roommates (Wellness@Mac blog) 

Relationships/Connections 

• Check out our Wellness@Mac blog for articles on topics like: 

• • Social Anxiety among International students 

• • How to navigate a breakup  

• • Long Distance Relationships 

• • Healthy Boundaries  

• Also, check out our Make a Friend program! (Details coming soon to our programs page) 

Finances 

• Read this SWC’s Wellness@Mac blog post to learn about financial literacy  

• Check out the Student Success Centre’s tips for finding part time job opportunities  

• Check out Mac’s Money Centre for financial wellness support, as well as workshops, tax services and events! 

• Check out the Student Success Centre’s Career Counselling and Job Search support 

Academics 

• Check out the Student Accessibility Services accommodations page for support with how to request accommodations  

• The Student Success Centre offers academic support throughout your time at McMaster. Check out their writing and academic skills page for tips and tricks to ace your first year!  

• Access the McMaster University Libraries webpage to review resources on Communicating with Professors and Group Work Online Tips 

• Find support with your classes through the Undergraduate Peer Tutoring Network 

• Access workshops, coaching, and peer mentorship programs to support first-year students (among other great wellness and resource navigation support!) through the Black Student Success Centre (BSSC) 

• Check out the SWC’s Wellness@Mac blogs on topics like Procrastination 101 , and Dealing with Test Anxiety 

Mental Health  

• If you’re struggling with your mental health, remember that there is support both on and off campus. Check out a short list of a few resources below, and make sure to check out the SWC’s resources page for a comprehensive list of support available to you. 

• • The MSU Assistance Plan is available to all students 24/7 through multi-lingual calls, online chats, or texts, offering counselling with mental health experts, and professional consultation in the areas of nutrition, academic success, life skills, legal affairs, and more. Check out their website to learn more!  

• • Young Adult Substance Use Program- St. Joeseph’s A program designed to support adults aged 17-25 with substance use and harm reduction through 1:1 counselling and group programming. 

• Check out the Spiritual Care and Learning Centre for spiritual care services such as spiritual learning and community. 

• Access the Equity and Inclusion Office for support with: 

• • Human Rights and Dispute Resolution (HRDR) 

• • Sexual Violence Prevention and Response (SVPRO) 

• • Accessibility 

• • Inclusion and Anti-Racism 

• Read the SWC’s Wellness@Mac blogs on prioritize your wellbeing and stress vs anxiety 

Food 

• Check out the list of hospitality locations on campus 

• Check out the SWC’s Food for Thought cooking classes within walking distance of your residence room! 

• Read the SWC’s Wellness@Mac blog for articles on topics like: 

• • International Grocery Stores near Campus 

• • Promoting Healthy Eating when stressed 

• • Food Programs on Campus 

• • Practicing Mindful Eating 

• • A beginners Guide to Meal Prep 

Culture, Entertainment and Staying Active 

• Check out the Welcome Week website to find a list of events and photos 

• Check out Athletics and Recreation’s Intramural Sports options to help you get active 

• Check out all the clubs McMaster has to offer. And don’t forget to go to Club Fest in September! 

• Join the SWC’s Walk in Nature program to explore campus and the surrounding area (and meet new people!). Sign up for program details here. 

• Check out Indigenous Student Services (ISS) for weekly programming to nurture academic and personal growth, build connections and celebrate Indigenous cultures. 

• Check out the Black Student Success Centre (BSSC) for programs and resources to nurture your academic and personal growth and build a sense of belonging and safety.  

• Read the SWC’s Wellness@Mac blog on exploring group exercise 

Physical Wellbeing  

• Book an appointment with the SWC to get STI testing completed. We also offer free take-home HIV kits through the I’m Ready program. 

• Check out the SWC’s unexpectingU page for information and resources related to an unplanned pregnancy 

• Read the SWC’s Wellness@Mac blog to learn tips to get through this flu season 

MSU Peer Support 

• MSU Maccess: A service dedicated to creating a more inclusive campus for students with disabilities. Through advocacy and community-building events, Maccess supports students in navigating university life. 

• MSU Women and Gender Equity Network (WGEN): A safer space for women and nonbinary individuals to connect, access resources, and participate in workshops and community events. 

• MSU Pride Community Centre (PCC): A welcoming space for 2SLGBTQIA+ students, offering peer support, educational programming, and a community to belong to. 

• Student Health Education Centre (SHEC): A peer-run service offering free health supplies, peer support, and referrals. SHEC focuses on holistic well-being, recognizing that wellness looks different for everyone. 

Your journey at McMaster is just beginning and we’re so glad you’re here! Remember, success isn’t just about grades, it’s about growth, balance and finding your community. Don’t hesitate to explore these resources, ask questions, or reach out when you need a hand.  

The Student Wellness Center is here for you 😊 

For any questions on wellness feel free to contact healthpr@mcmaster.ca