We foster a supportive and healthy environment for every student to thrive.
Navigating healthcare in a new country is a critical part of your student experience. Dorset College provides guidance to ensure you are fully covered.
All international students residing in British Columbia for more than six months are required to enroll in MSP, the provincial healthcare plan. Our administrative team assists students with the application process upon their arrival to ensure seamless access to essential medical services. For more information, please visit the official MSP website.
For the initial waiting period before MSP coverage begins, we advise students to arrange their own private health insurance plans. It is crucial to have coverage for medical appointments, emergency care, and hospital visits during this time.
We prioritize your mental well-being with confidential and accessible support services designed to help you navigate the challenges of student life. Our dedicated Student Services and Counselling team is here to assist you.
Professional Counselling: Our counselor is available for one-on-one sessions to provide personalized support for academic pressure, personal challenges, and stress management. These confidential services are a cornerstone of our commitment to your emotional health and resilience.
Workshops & Wellness Activities: We host regular workshops and activities focused on critical wellness topics such as mindfulness, stress reduction, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. These sessions provide practical tools to enhance your overall well-being.
Academic & Career Counselling: In addition to personal support, our team offers guidance on academic planning, course selection, and career advice to help you achieve your professional goals.
You can connect with our Student Advisor and Counselor, Ms. Soni Vidushi, who holds an MA in Clinical Psychology.
For additional mental health resources, we recommend these community services:
Your safety is a top priority. We provide clear guidelines and resources to ensure you are prepared for any emergency.
All students are equipped with essential information on how to contact local emergency services (police, fire, and ambulance) by dialing 911 in Canada.
Dorset College is committed to fostering a safe community. For assistance with addiction or harm reduction, we encourage students to seek support directly from reputable community resources.
For more information on harm reduction and addiction support, please refer to the following resources
Your health and safety are a top priority. Dorset College is committed to supporting students by providing guidance and access to resources for addiction and overdose prevention, in accordance with health and safety guidelines set by the B.C. government.
We encourage all students to educate themselves on the risks associated with substance use. Reliable information and resources are available through public health authorities, and our staff can help guide you to trusted sources.
Naloxone kits are available at the front desk of Dorset College. Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. We encourage students to seek training and learn how to use it safely.
In an emergency, always dial 911 for immediate medical assistance. For non-emergency support related to mental health or substance use, please refer to the resources below.
8-1-1 HealthLink BC: A provincial health line where you can speak to a health professional for non-emergency medical advice.