Sheridan Student Union

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International Students at Sheridan: We Are Here For You

Sheridan Student Union

A Message from your VP of Advocacy and Community Development:

 As your Vice President of Advocacy and Community Development, it is imperative to talk about the issues affecting the student community. Currently, there is an unsettling feeling in the international student community.  The Immigration Refugees and Citizenship (IRCC) announced on September 18, 2024, changes that will affect international students, post-graduation work permit holders, and temporary foreign workers. The Sheridan Student Union (SSU) understands that with the new restrictions placed on international students, many students may feel anxious about what will happen next. Where do we go from here? The SSU is here to guide the students at Sheridan College to where they can get support.

The SSU is a member of the Canadian Alliance Student Association (CASA). CASA represents SSU at the federal level and they have given a response in light of the news from IRCC. CASA responded on September 23, 2024, and they noted the new restrictions placed on international students and the organization's recommendations that the government should consider. CASA is actively in discussion with the IRCC advocating for international students.  

Additional support has been provided by Guard.me for international students whether the need is for supporting their mental, social, or physical well-being. Here are some of the key services available:

  • 24/7 Counseling, Personalized Solutions, Tailored counseling for issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and academic concerns, and Culturally Sensitive Support among others. To access these services, simply download the TELUS Health Student Support app or visit gmssp.org. 

Sheridan College Resources and Supports

To support the students in this time of uncertainties, the International Office at Sheridan College has been hosting webinars and in-person drop-in sessions if any student has students have concerns and questions about their study permit, work permit, or how these new restrictions will affect them.

Students are able to contact the International Student Immigration Advising Office and access counseling services or wellness resources at Sheridan College.  For Immigration Questions and Information (study permit, co-op work permit, PGWP, visa/eTA), please visit the following:

As the student union that represents the students at Sheridan College, we are here to amplify the students’ voices and advocating on your behalf. We are focused on presenting the issues of social impact and social justice. Our mission and vision stand as our guide in supporting students to create an exceptional student experience and to empower students to succeed in a changing world.

This article was written by Amalia Powell.

Amalia is the SSU’s Vice President of Advocacy and Community Development and a current student in Sheridan’s Paralegal program. Amalia is also the Secondary Delegate at both Ontario Student Voices and CASA. Through partnerships with organizations like those, Amalia hopes to implement resources that lead to a more informed and empowered student body. Our Executive team are available to support a variety of aspects of your Sheridan Life.