A transition group for first-year international students at the University of Victoria.
A six-session educational support group designed to help participants make sense of being in-between — between cultures, between identities, between the expectations of home and host. Grounded in Schlossberg's transition model and self-regulated learning theory.
Most first-year university students are emerging adults — navigating an intense period of identity exploration, expanding autonomy, and meaning-making. International students are doing all of that and a cultural transition from heritage culture to an unfamiliar Canadian context.
These overlapping transitions are associated with poorer adjustment during the first years of university. This group exists to give that layered experience the structured, reflective space it deserves — a place to pause, name what is shifting, and connect with others walking the same path.
Drawing on Nancy Schlossberg's transition model, each session is organized around one of the four Ss — with reflection, structured activity, and a light take-home task.
Recognizing the dimensions of transition — shifts in roles, relationships, routines, and assumptions. Making sense of what is shifting in each individual's particular situation.
Identifying personal characteristics, values, and cultural strengths carried into the transition. Affirming what is already there — and what each participant can carry forward.
Mapping sources of support across ecological layers — peers, family, institutional resources, community networks. Recognizing barriers to help-seeking and reaching toward connection.
Exploring regulatory and adaptive strategies across academic, social, and personal domains. Trying out approaches, evaluating fit, and selecting what works for each situated context.
From orientation through working stage to integration — a deliberate rhythm of check-in, educational input, group activity, and reflection.
Open to first-year international students whose secondary education was completed in their home country — those whose cultural and educational transitions are arriving together.
Enrolled in a degree program at UVic, in your first year of post-secondary study, with secondary education completed in your home country.
At UVic's English Language Centre, taking credit courses alongside English language preparation through the University Pathway Program.
A short 7–10 minute confidential survey to help us learn about you and ensure good fit.
A brief follow-up with the facilitator to clarify expectations and answer your questions.
Confirmation, calendar, and your first session — beginning mid-fall or mid-spring semester.
This is a professional-led educational support group with peer-support elements — not counselling or therapy. It is not designed to address acute psychological distress, ongoing mental health concerns, or immigration consultation. Students whose needs fall outside this scope are warmly referred to UVic Counselling Services, International Student Services, or other appropriate campus and community resources. The screening process is designed to ensure each student receives the right kind of support.