Student Support + Services

The WIHP Team has several members to support students on their learning journey. The Wâpanachakos office has Elders, mentors, and a Community Engagement and Recruitment Coordinator who are are always ready and willing to help on both program and cultural matters. If you would like to speak with one of these individuals please reach out to the office at whipadmin@ualberta.ca.

Supports include:

Assistance During the Admissions Process

  • Indigenous applicants must meet all minimum academic qualifications when applying for Medicine, or any Dentistry program.
  • The WIHP Community Engagement and Recruitment Coordinator will assist with the Indigenous admissions process and connect applicants to available supports.
  • Interview panels are comprised of a majority of Indigenous individuals ranging from current students, faculty and community members. It is conducted using a conversational format and aims to better know the applicant and how WIHP can support them along their academic journey.

MCAT Prep

  • The WIHP Team has MCAT materials available in our office for Indigenous applicants to sign out, free of charge.
  • The 海角社区 currently runs an MD AIDE program for students facing financial barriers and students from underrepresented backgrounds. As an MD AIDE student, you can receive both free MCAT and Interview preparation.
  • WIHP Team Members are available to meet with applicants as they require

WIHP and Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry Activities

  • Every Wednesday from 12-1 p.m., we host a Community Lunch Hour in our office (2-07 HMRC). All are welcome! It is a great way to get to know the team, and meet other Indigenous students.
  • Events take place throughout the year to create a community for our Indigenous students, as well as celebrate academic achievements.
  • We host and facilitate Cultural learning and ceremonies for students throughout the year.
  • Our office regularly goes into communities to give presentations or host booths around entering the FoMD as an Indigenous learner-contact us today to schedule one for you or your students!

The Office of Advocacy and Wellbeing

The Office of Advocacy and Wellbeing (OAW) offers a wealth of resources for students within FoMD. These resources focus on all areas related to both physical and mental health. Their aim is to ensure that undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate learners are not distracted by health matters and are able to perform to the best of their abilities. OAW has created this list of learner resources (2023). This list contains comprehensive resources available to students within the FoMD. Including information on: finding a physician in Edmonton, FoMD support offices, housing, heath coverage (physical and mental), 海角社区 support offices, and other resources for mental health & crisis.

OAW can also provide support on:

  • Career Advice
  • Counselling
  • Minor Funding
  • Accommodating needs with special circumstances