The FNC is a culturally safe and accessible environment that offers a wide variety of supports, services, activities and programs that help to improve educational outcomes for First Nations, Inuit and Métis students, create awareness and understanding of Indigenous perspectives and worldviews, and celebrate Indigenous culture.
Tutoring Support
Students can improve their skills and understanding in math and writing with in-house tutoring support offered weekly within the FNC in partnership with the Academic Success Centre.
Tutoring takes place in the FNC Computer Lab (7-105).
Fall 2024 Drop-in Tutoring Hours:
TBA
Internal Services and Supports
All staff at the FNC are able to connect students with the various internal services and supports available at UNBC. Our Indigenous Student Life Navigator is also able to provide advice and guidance on accessing band funding and emergency assistance funds.
Cultural Activities and Resources
Hosting, teaching and facilitating cultural activities are a big part of what the FNC provides to the UNBC community. You can regularly participate in smudging ceremonies, talking circles, drum making, traditional art workshops, singing, storytelling, and crafting at the FNC. Another important role of the FNC is to facilitate workshops and connect students, staff, and faculty with aboriginal cultural resources including Elders and knowledge holders. In this capacity, the FNC staff work to create awareness, build relationships, promote Indigenization and break down the systemic barriers that Indigenous peoples face across UNBC.
External Services
On a case by case basis, FNC staff are able to connect students with external services such as off-campus housing, funding sources, employment opportunities and cultural activities.
Overcoming Systemic Barriers
FNC staff have an understanding of the systemic barriers Indigenous students may face during their time in post-secondary education. Assisting students in overcoming these barriers is an overarching service that all FNC staff work to provide. Providing customized tours, organizing the UNBC Indigenous Orientation, and developing an Indigenous Student Handbook are examples of large, service-based projects that FNC staff coordinate and deliver.
First Nations Centre Graduation
Every year the First Nations Centre is honoured to celebrate the successful graduation of UNBC students who utilize the Centre. Graduating students who access, volunteer, or are regularly involved in First Nations Centre events and programs are invited to come and be a part of this grand celebration.
The annual First Nations Centre Graduation is held on the Thursday before UNBC’s Convocation and features a story ceremony in the Canfor Theatre, followed by a reception with snacks and refreshments in Lhuhuhwhezdel (also known as The Gathering Place). Everyone is invited to come and witness the celebration and to join us as we wish our newly graduating students the very best as they continue on their journeys in life.