An introductory column from the new MASU Student Liasion
While the end of Mt.A’s International Week was marked by student models from around the world walking down the runway at the International Fashion Show, prepared by the hardworking International Centre, the recognition of international students should not come to an end. The Mount Allison Student Union (MASU) is honoured to have over 250 international students from 85 different countries. Every student at Mt.A plays an important role in shaping the character and culture of its community. The MASU does its best to ensure a comfortable transition from one country to another, minimizing the culture shock and providing an inclusive experience. But there is always room for improvement. Adjusting to a new home can be challenging, and the MASU wants to ensure that Mt.A can truly be your home away from home.
International Student Coordinator, Jia Brijwasi, said: “My job is to make sure that we foster a community between international students as well as Canadian students and to be able to collaborate between the two and also have […] equality between the two in a way where we are celebrating international students and the local students equally.”
The MASU is actively working on strengthening multiculturalism within the university. MASU believes that cultural diversity is one of the most defining features of Mt.A. Each international student plays a big role in the student body, and MASU wants to ensure that no student will be left behind. Through advocacy, celebratory events, and mindfulness, they plan to establish an equal learning environment where every student will feel celebrated. The MASU highly encourages events which celebrate cultural diversity, such as Diwali Night, organized by the MOSAIC Society, and International Student Week. Whether cultural clubs host events or clubs take part in international showcases, several events receive MASU support in marketing, resources, and event space. The MASU believes that advocacy is not a privilege — it is a right. Their current goal is to establish a stronger voice for international students, a system where everyone is heard, and where no international students feel forgotten or neglected. They also want to ensure that every international student has access to all the necessary resources, to allow for a smooth transition into their time at Mt.A. Whether this is through providing academic and wellness guides, or assisting with healthcare coverage, the MASU looks to make these resources accessible, simple and ready for use.
Vice President of Finance and Governance, Lakshmi Koduvelil Sayan, an international student from India said, “We could do a lot better, […] we don’t have enough feedback to work on to do a better job. We don’t have enough information. We don’t have enough feedback for us to be able to help the students to the maximum.” MASU is always seeking feedback to improve how we serve the student body and ensure that the needs of every student are met. This is your sign to reach out to the student union if you have any questions or concerns. The MASU does not bite, they promise.