Get Involved
Are you passionate about helping international students transition to life at the University of Alberta? International Student and Visitor Services (ISVS) recruits over 200 volunteers a year. Build your global connections! Volunteer to support international students and become part of a welcoming community that extends beyond the campus, into the city of Edmonton, and the wider Canadian community. Share your expertise, expand your network, and grow your intercultural skills.
Why Volunteer?
- Gain valuable work experience for your resume
- Gain hands-on experience in the area of student services
- Build leadership and interpersonal skills
- Develop cross-cultural communication skills
- Connect with peers from around the world
- Receive Volunteer Activity Confirmation Record if you log 15 or more hours in an academic year
Volunteer Opportunities
Event Volunteer
In addition to orientation activities for international students, ISVS coordinates social and cultural events to support better integration into life in Edmonton.
Responsibilities- Event set-up
- Running event stations (e.g. crafts, karaoke, food service)
- Door greeters
- Assist with event logistics, outreach, and tabling to connect students with resources.
- Minimum 15 hours throughout the academic year
- Must complete the ISVS Online Volunteer Training Course and attend a Pre-event briefing.
Welcome Ambassadors
Help new international students settle in by joining our Welcome Ambassador team. This opportunity qualifies for CIL Points. The welcome ambassador and team lead volunteer positions require the completion of the ISVS Online Volunteer Training Course and attendance at an in-person training session.
Airport Welcome Ambassador
- Welcome international students as they arrive at the Edmonton International Airport
- Track and issue taxi discount vouchers to eligible students
- Answer student questions to help them navigate their first day in Alberta
- Collaborate with student volunteers from 5 other Edmonton post-secondary institutions
- Minimum 7 hours (two shifts) during the last two weeks of August (including weekends)
Airport Welcome Team Lead
- Supervision of up to 5 volunteers during shift
- Volunteer management & motivation
- Coordination of booth operations during shift
- Adhere to and enforce emergency protocols
- Act as primary contact for university and airport staff
- Minimum 7 hours (two shifts) during the last two weeks of August (including weekends).
U of A Welcome Ambassador
- Assist students and/or parents during our Campus Check-In Drop-in Orientation period
- Provide settlement information and answer common questions
- Distribute welcome bags to new students
- Create a warm and supportive environment for international students
- Share the value of orientation activities and encourage students to participate
- Minimum of 15 hours during the Fall and/or Winter orientation periods