Hear about the student experience

Gain valuable insight as Indigenous students share how they have thrived with the exceptional support they received here at Smith Engineering.

Learn more about the resources for Indigenous students at Smith Engineering below:

Indigenous Futures in Engineering (InEng) offers academic services for Indigenous students. Some of these include: 

Tutoring Services 

We offer free tutoring services for Indigenous engineering students. Our dedicated program staff will collaborate with you to find a tutor that is fitted to your needs. Whether you're looking for help with coursework or additional study support, we are here to help you succeed. 

Indigenous Study Space

InEng has a dedicated student study room. It's more than just a place to study - it's the perfect space for group projects and quick breaks between classes. Stocked with snacks during exam time, and a steady supply of coffee, this welcoming space will be a home base during your academic journey. 

Study Groups

Throughout the school year, casual study sessions take place in on-campus designated Indigenous spaces. You'll be able to drop in, study, eat pizza and snacks, and enjoy gathering with your peers. More formal study groups are built around specific courses, particularly in first year.

Indigenous Futures in Engineering offers career supports and facilitates professional development opportunities. Here are some of the supports that we offer:

Industry Liaison

Our dedicated Indigenous Transitions Coordinator works with on-campus partners like Career Services and Corporate Relations to connect Indigenous engineering students with opportunities in industry. Their mission is to create meaningful connections and pathways to success, helping you in your search for career and professional development opportunities.

Conferences and Networking

We support Indigenous engineering students by offering financial assistance for student travel to attend conferences, and by organizing networking events. Take advantage of these opportunities to enhance your skills and develop connections within industry.

Research Opportunities

Indigenous engineering students are eligible to receive a research stipend and are connected with faculty members through the STEMInA Research Experience Program, allowing them to contribute meaningfully and gain valuable research experience. This unique opportunity invites students to explore and make informed decisions about future career paths, whether in industry or pursuing graduate studies in the field of engineering.

Indigenous Futures in Engineering fosters a strong community through our STEM Indigenous Academics  (STEMInA) programming, which brings together Indigenous Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math students from across campus. Some of the activities include:

Transition Week

First-year Indigenous STEM students have the opportunity to move to campus one week ahead of the general move-in. They are invited to participate in Transition Week, an on-campus orientation that also welcomes families/supporters for the first two days. Families/supporters will learn about programs and services, help their student move in, and meet the program staff. After the first two days, students remain on campus to participate in a week-long orientation, getting to know each other and the city of Kingston.

Social Gatherings

Indigenous engineering students are invited to join their peers in STEM degree programs at our STEMInA social gatherings. These events provide a unique space for students to come together, enjoy local takeout, engage in meaningful conversations, study, and socialize. 

Indigenous in STEM

We continuously seek opportunities to connect our students with Indigenous perspectives in STEM. Whether it's linking you with leaders, curating specialized programming and events, or helping you find opportunities, our goal is to bring Indigenous experiences and viewpoints in STEM subjects to you.

 

  

Early move-in and orientation

Transition Week is an on-campus orientation program for Indigenous STEM students, one week prior to general move-in. It starts with a family orientation over two days and continues throughout the week to welcome first-year undergraduate students to their new surroundings, academic programs, and community in Kingston. Accommodations and food for both the family orientation and transition week are provided by the STEM Indigenous Academics (STEMInA) program.

 

Get in touch

Indigenous students considering studying at Smith Engineering at encouraged to contact the Director of Indigenous Futures in Engineering for more information on the services available to them.

 

Indigenous STEM community

Hear from our students as they share how Smith Engineering has become a home away from home, fostering connections and a sense of belonging within our vibrant academic community.