Pathways to success: The Access Program from Extended Education
Access combines the
place, people and programs that help students succeed on their university journey.
Someti
mes students face obstacles on the way to academic success, be they social, economic or health-related. Regardless of barriers that can make the path forward seem difficult, students can find their way with the supportive place, people and programs of the Access Program from Extended Education at the University of Manitoba.
This government-funded program is free to all Manitoba residents, with preference given to Indigenous people (Status, Non-status, Metis and Inuit), newcomers to Canada, residents of Northern Manitoba and low-income earners.
Access offers a supportive place, people and programs that foster a path to academic success at the University of Manitoba.
To be eligible for the program, applicants must qualify for regular University of Manitoba entrance, or be mature students who are 21 or older and are admissible to University 1.
Access promotes a supportive and welcoming environment designed to foster student success.
THE PLACE
University is a time of transition and Access offers students a place to develop connections with others who have similar experiences. Migizii Agamik – Bald Eagle Lodge – is a culturally-rich building that provides a home-away-from-home for students.Th e space is inspired by Indigenous worldviews and is a place of pride for the 2,400+ Indigenous students and staff at U of M.
This smudge-friendly environment features a computer lab, student lounge, gathering space, and a kitchen. The building also features a Circle Room for ceremonies, meetings, and classes that require a sacred space.
This welcoming atmosphere helps ease the transition to university.
With Access, students find their comfort zone and a space to relax and recharge.
Access to a Place
“JUST BEING IN THIS BUILDING (MIGIZII AGAMIK) IS AMAZING. IT HAS SO MUCH TO OFFER TO INDIGENOUS STUDENTS AND PEOPLE IN ACCESS. IT’S A PLACE WHERE YOU FEEL LIKE YOU BELONG”
– Cameron Longo, Access Student
THE PEOPLE
Access students are part of a rich community. Bonds are formed with other Access students who have similar backgrounds and experiences. That sense of community is forged as fourth year students address a group of high school students, friendships are formed during orientation, and people gather to honour their shared success. It’s a welcoming environment.
Students can seek guidance from Elders in Residence, student advisors, and administrators ready to encourage them on their academic journey.
With Access, the path is shared with many.
Access to People
“WE ALL KIND OF LOOK OUT FOR EACH OTHER, AND WE CHEER EACH OTHER ON. IT’S A FAMILY. IT’S A HOME BASED COMMUNITY.”
– Erin Cunningham, Access Student
THE PROGRAMS
Access offers many resources that support students in achieving their goals, including academic, personal, and financial programs.
Individual academic advising, tutorials, and regular consultations with Academic Advisors are available as students navigate some of the scholastic challenges they encounter along their path. Personal support can be found in individual and family counselling, housing assistance, childcare assistance, university/urban adjustment assistance, communication and personal development workshops, and career counselling. There is also limited financial support available to Access students.
With Access, students travel their path to success.
Access to Programs
“THE AMOUNT OF SUPPORT THAT ACADEMIC AND PERSONAL COUNSELLORS BRING TO THE TABLE IS QUITE ASTOUNDING. THEY’RE THERE TO HELP YOU SUCCEED. ALL THEY WANT YOU TO DO IS SUCCEED.”
-Art Satean, Access Student
