Feature Article

 

New Campus Recreation and Student Life Facility Creates Connections

Where living and learning go beyond the classroom

Students who are more engaged. Students who are less stressed. RDC is committed to creating an environment that celebrates diversity and connects students not only to the College community, but to each other.

Building connections is front and centre in the new Campus Recreation and Student Life facility at RDC.

“In this new space, we’re offering activities that go beyond the average experience,” says Trent Rix, Director of Student Services.

The facility, which opened its doors last December, integrates the social, physical and co-curricular opportunities, will go a long way in supporting a well-rounded student experience. “With so many student-focused social and recreational opportunities available, it’s a great place for students to have fun and de-stress,” Rix explains.

Located just inside the main entrance of the College, this exciting new student-centred space provides a welcoming setting where students can meet, access services and explore a variety of wellness and social opportunities.

Formerly known as the RBC Student Support Centre, this service has recently been updated and centrally located. Although the name has changed, the generous support hasn’t. Much-needed support continues from the RBC Foundation. 

“We want to continue to honour RBC Foundation’s donation and their investment in our organization,” says Rix. “Now the investment has an even greater profile in the College.” Ensuring that all students on campus have a place to go where they feel safe and supported has always been an essential element.

Keeping residents connected.  The connections keep growing. A heightened connection to the Students’ Association and to Residence Life will help these three areas work together more efficiently, to offer and cross-promote activities and events. Now, a sole Student Life Coordinator, Lee Wiebe, is responsible for “connecting the dots” between these types of student activities. 

The new space is also helping create more connected relationships to residents on campus. By coordinating efforts with areas that are already doing similar work, building outreach in a more focused way is that much easier. 

For example, Rix explains that every few weeks the RDC Residence Assistants make a personal visit to all residents, to let them know about activities and to offer information on a variety of student services and learning support. “We’re doing everything we can to ensure students are aware of all of the services and supports, focusing on their success both in and out of the classroom.” 

Retention is key. Students who enjoy their overall campus and classroom experiences are more likely to be successful. The aim is to keep students well and enhance their experience so that they enjoy being part of the RDC community.

Here are just some of the activities and services available: • Student Ambassador Program, volunteer and leadership training • Student clubs and group workspaces • Referral services and advocacy • Aboriginal resources • International coffee houses • Drop-in activities and special events • Tournaments • RDC Recreational Royals sports teams • Fitness classes • Recreational/student clubs This new facility supports students in reaching their full potential as effective leaders, lifelong learners and responsible members of their own communities.

Offering tools and resources.  The Campus Recreation and Student Life facility is a resource and reference point for all of RDC’s service areas, offering information on counselling, tutoring and learning supports. If someone is reaching out for stress management, for instance, the students who work in the facility can help their peers connect the dots and find that help.

This month, as students return to class, Rix says they’re holding a space-naming competition and an open house. “Students need to know that this is a space for them and they’re always welcome.”

Fun for all – movie and game nights, a meeting room for student groups, work stations to sign up for campus rec classes and plenty of drop-in opportunities, to name just a few highlights. 

Student life at RDC now has a fresh, new and engaging environment – where all students are challenged and supported as they grow the skills to become our leaders of today and tomorrow.

This new facility is truly a place where RDC connects with students and students connect and grow with their RDC community.