A new academic year, under a new institutional identity, begins Tuesday for Lethbridge Polytechnic.
Over the summer, the post-secondary was given approval by Advanced Education to transition from a college to a polytechnic, with Minister Rajan Sawhney announcing the news in a media release June 25.
While the institution has been known as Lethbridge Polytechnic since then, the name change becomes official Sept. 3 – the same day New Student Orientation (NSO) kicks off the fall semester.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming both new and returning students to campus next week for the start of our first academic year as Lethbridge Polytechnic,” says Dr. Brad Donaldson, president and CEO. “While our name and designation have recently changed, our commitment to providing learners with clear pathways to success through industry-responsive and hands-on programming, has not. We are excited for the year ahead and for the opportunities that await our students.”
NSO begins with a check-in from 8 to 9 a.m. and campus-wide program orientations from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Then, new students will attend the keynote kick-off in the Val Matteotti Gymnasium where a series of speakers will welcome them to the polytechnic community.
A Lethbridge Polytechnic Students’ Association barbecue, Be Fit for Life yoga sessions, campus tours, a nature walk and a movie will follow in the afternoon.
An international student check-in and orientation will also take place in the afternoon.
“Attending New Student Orientation is the best way for incoming students to ease themselves into post-secondary life,” says Lindsay Workman, associate dean, Student Affairs. “Over the course of one day, they’ll get to connect with instructors, classmates and other students, learn about available supports, and get help navigating campus so they’re confident and ready on the first day of class.”
Students who are new to Lethbridge Polytechnic or who are starting a new program are encouraged to attend NSO and can register on the Lethbridge Polytechnic website. Students learning from a distance are also welcome to attend.
The first day of classes for the fall semester is Wednesday, Sept. 4.