Communication sent to International Students on March 19, 2020
We know the situation with COVID-19 is moving quite quickly so we hope you’re keeping well during this time. As Public Health advisories have gone out recommending social distancing, closing of restaurants and other safety measures, we want you to have some information about services, supports and resources available for all international students at York.
York International services remain open and accessible to all international students at York. See below for a new way of getting in touch with us!
York International Services Moving Online
As of March 18, York International will move to online, phone or email advising for all our services. You can meet with an advisor virtually from wherever you are!
Immigration Advising:
You can now meet with an International Student Advisor & Immigration Specialist online! Sign up for an appointment and our Advisors will use Zoom to have a video advising session with you. Prefer to talk over the phone? That’s available as well! Just let us know what your preference is when you sign up. You can also email us at iadvisor@yorku.ca.
UHIP Advising:
UHIP Advising will also move online to Zoom! Sign up for an appointment with our UHIP Administrator over Zoom or the phone. You can also email uhip@yorku.ca with your questions.
Social Distancing Can Still be Social!
Social distancing doesn’t mean you’re alone! We’re moving our weekly Coffee Breaks online so you can still connect with other York students. Starting Monday March 23, we will run Coffee Breaks every weekday afternoon from 2-4pm. Connect with us online over video chat with your own cup of coffee from home and check in to see how your York community is doing. Our Student Staff and Peers will be available to chat, laugh, and share their strategies of staying healthy, active and connected during social distancing. Check out our YI Events calendar or our social media starting Friday for more info and how to join!
Can’t wait for Monday? You don’t have to! We’ll be hosting our first Virtual Coffee Break this Thursday March 19 from 2-4pm. Check our YI Events page for more info!
What’s Open on Campus and in Toronto?
Many restaurants and campus dining facilities are no longer open for dining but are still open for take out and delivery. If you are living in residence, you’ll receive information on which cafeterias are open for service. You can also download different food delivery apps like Door Dash, Foodora or others to get meals delivered if you need.
You should also get a few supplies for your residence room or apartment. Some groceries and snacks for some easy and healthy meals may help you get through some late night cravings, eat healthier and save money. Only have a microwave? No problem! You can use the microwave to make cheesy scrambled eggs, steamed veggies, “baked” potatoes, frozen meals, even cake in a mug! Also make sure to have some things like any medicines and other health necessities on hand.
International Students in Residence
If you are already in residence at York and you can’t travel back to your home country because of recent travel restrictions/border restrictions or other circumstances, you are not required to move out of residence. Make sure to fill out the form sent to you by Housingto let them know of your plans whether you’re staying or leaving early.
Stay Informed
Whether you’re looking for what the experts are saying about staying safe or looking for the latest info about COVID-19 at York, we’ve got the resources for you!
Toronto Public Health’s COVID-19 Health Advice: for how to protect yourself, what social distancing means and more!
York’s Coronavirus site: for the latest updates on what’s happening at York around COVID-19
FAQs for International Students: we’ve compiled the most commonly asked questions from international students and some that we think you should know more about!
Student Counselling and Development at York: provides essential mental health support and resources for York students
Good2Talk: confidential support services for post-secondary students in Ontario for professional counselling and information and referrals for mental health, addictions and well-being. Call 1-866-925-5454 or text GOOD2TALKON to 686868
Stay safe everyone. Wash your hands, practice social distancing and support each other!
York International