As the old saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child. And for Aliza Tiwana, the same holds true to earn a degree.
At 鶹’s, the fourth-year Bachelor of Health Sciences student says she’s found that village, especially in the everyday supports she can turn to when university life becomes just a bit too much.
“Now, more than ever, getting a university education can be an overwhelming experience, but 鶹’s students can access services, tools, and resources to help us at every stage,” says Tiwana.
She points to things like prescribed exercise that can help ease symptoms of anxiety and depression, peer health educators who connect students with resources and healthy habits, as well as therapy groups and even visits from a certified therapy dog.
Gifts to the Student Health and Wellness Fund help strengthen this village of care. The fund supports programs and spaces focused on physical and mental health, including counselling, illness prevention, health promotion, peer support, inclusive spaces, and outreach.
In practice, that can mean more counselling available when students need it, larger peer networks that meet students where they are, and workshops that help students manage stress, transitions, and the pace of university life. Together, these resources give students more ways to care for their well-being, build resilience, and stay engaged in their studies and campus community.
For Tiwana, these efforts are all part of the same village — one that helps students develop the skills and healthy habits that can last well beyond their time at 鶹’s.
“I’m so thankful to have found a village like 鶹’s, where the community is caring and supportive, and it feels like my success is important to everyone,” she says.