tootooba/SMU_FAQDataset huggingface dataset:
Question: How do I drop all my classes for a 100% refund?
Answer: Refunds are based on a refund schedule. Please view the Course Withdrawal Regulations?page for specific dates and deadlines. Courses must be dropped online through Self Service Banner. For the course drop process, please visit the Dropping Courses page.
Question: Will there be restrictions placed on my account if I don't pay the balance owed?
Answer: Restrictions are placed on accounts with an overdue balance. Students with an overdue or outstanding balance will not be able to register for future terms, and will not have access to transcripts, parchments and other official letters and documents from Saint Mary's University.
Question: Where do I find Student Account Center assistance?
Answer: For assistance with your Student Account Centre, please contact the service centre, by email to servicecentre.touchnet@smu.ca or visit the Service Centre in person at McNally Main (MM), room 108.
Question: Are students required to participate in the Co-operative education program?
Answer: At Saint Mary's Co-operative Education is an optional program. Undergraduate students (Commerce, Science, and Arts) must meet and maintain certain GPA requirements and must also have a minimum of 60 credit hours completed before beginning their first work term. Those Master of Science in Applied Science students whose major is listed below are eligible for Co-op provided they meet and maintain their own program's academic requirements.
Question: What are some of my responsibilities as an employer?
Answer: Co-op work terms should provide a solid business exposure, related as closely as possible to the student's major. Employers are responsible for providing a paid employment, full time hours (at least 32.5 per week) for a minimum of 12-16 weeks. To ensure success of the program, a midpoint evaluation with the employer and student once during the work term is required.
Question: For co-op, can I hire an international student?
Answer: Yes, you can hire an International student and there are no special requirements to do so. International students are required to apply for a work permit through Citizenship and Immigration and the work permit allows International Co-op Students to work off campus in Co-op approved positions. The Co-operative Education department will assist International students with this process and students are required to have a work permit prior to going out on work terms. International students are also required to have a Social Insurance Number (SIN). Employers may also wish to contact their Human Resources department or hiring managers to review company policies and procedures on hiring International students.
Question: What are the benefits of hiring a co-op student?
Answer: There are many benefits of hiring a Co-op student. Students are available year round and can provide solutions to short term staffing needs. Students are energetic and eager to learn and will bring creative fresh new ideas to the workplace. Companies can also use the Co-op Program as a recruitment tool to pre-screen future employees. In addition to the above mentioned benefits that any co-op student offers to the workplace, International students can enrich the workplace by providing staff with an opportunity to learn about another culture, they may have other language skills an employer may find useful and like their domestic peers they are eager to make positive contributions.
Question: If I hire a co-op student, what is our role?
Answer: The Co-operative Education program is a method of learning where students can apply what they have learned in the classroom to real world situations. The Co-op Program is a great opportunity for students to learn and gain hands on work experience from a mentor within your organization. Students can ask questions and gain knowledge from mentors. As well, mid-way through the work term, a member of our Co-op team will contact you to set up a midpoint evaluation to discuss the student's responsibilities and progress. We also meet with the student to discuss their progress and accomplishments. If you have any questions or comments about the student or the Co-operative Education program at any time, you can contact any member of our team at coop@smu.ca.
Question: Is there any additional paperwork employer needs to complete if they hire an international student?
Answer: Students will already have their Work Permit and a social insurance number prior to being hired. Additionally, employers are required to fill out a Cooperative Education agreement, which will be sent to you by either your coop student or our office. The only paperwork that is required is the necessary paperwork for your organization.
Question: Who helps with applications for research grants from the Tri-Agencies (NSERC, SSHRC, CIHR)?
Answer: SMU's Research Grants Officer (RGO), Marlene Ramos (marlene.ramos@smu.ca) , is the main point of contact for faculty applying for grants to the Tri-Agencies. Any faculty considering applying for a Tri-Agency Grant should contact the RGO ahead of time to see what kind of assistance may be available, and to determine what the internal SMU application deadlines for particular programs are. NOTE that the RGO will normally set internal submission deadlines that are earlier than the posted federal application deadlines, since internal review and approval may be required - so please check with the RGO early.
Question: What is the process for applying for research grant from a funding agency outside of the federal Tri-Agencies?
Answer: There are opportunities for faculty to apply for research grants from agencies/foundations other than the Tri-Agencies, and when such opportunity is identified we strongly encourage faculty members to let the Research Grants Officer (RGO) be aware of an application being made. This way, if there are any institutional requirements that need to be included with the application, FGSR will be able to assist; also, this gives advance notice to FGSR/RGO of any application that requires institutional sign-off, and ensures the timing is managed to get applications submitted on time. Also note that some opportunities have to be looked at closely to determine whether the program is for research grants, or research contracts/agreements (with contracts/agreements following a little different process, as outlined in the FAQ section below).
Question: What is the Saint Mary's University process for applying for Canadian Foundation for Innovation (CFI) programs?
Answer: All CFI programs (e.g. John Evans Leadership Fund, Innovation Fund) require institutional submission of applications, and Saint Mary's has a specific amount of funding envelope provided through each of these opportunities. Therefore, any faculty member interested in applying for a CFI program must first contact the RGO to learn how Saint Mary's will be managing each specific competition. Due to the limited funding envelope provided, careful discussions are had with interested faculty members to determine which opportunities are able to be supported.
Question: Who helps with research agreements?
Answer: The Office of Innovation and Community Engagement is the primary contact for all research agreements - oice@smu.ca
Question: What is the new rate of overhead charged to cover indirect costs?
Answer: The University will charge a minimum flat rate of 20% based on the total direct costs of research delineated in a funding agreement. In cases where a separate line item for overhead costs does not show on a contract or funding application, the overhead charges can be built into other costs. Advice on how to build in overhead charges is available through the Office of Innovation and Community Engagement and the Faculty of Graduate Students and Research.
Question: What are the indirect costs of research?
Answer: Indirect costs mean support costs common to research activities undertaken at the University. Indirect Costs include, but are not limited to: Use of laboratory capital equipment and general University buildings/equipment Support and technical staff time Cleaning and maintenance Utilities (heat, power, water, telephone etc.) Accounting, administrative and computer services Legal and consultative services Library expenses General and project coordination/management Ethics, animal use and health and safety committees Depreciation and other indirect costs
Question: Is overhead charged on student salaries?
Answer: Money that is used to directly pay for student salaries may be exempt from overhead charges.
Question: How are overhead costs received by SMU distributed?
Answer: Funds recovered by the University from overheads charges on external funding agreements and contracts will be distributed as follows: 30% to the Dean of the primary placement of the lead faculty member 30 % to the Dean of the Faculty of Research and Graduate Studies 20% to the lead faculty member of the project 20% to general university revenue
Question: Who has signing authority on research agreements?
Answer: The President; Vice-President, Academic and Research; and the Associate Vice President, Research have authority to sign Research Agreements. Research Agreements without the signature of one or more of these officers are invalid and not legally binding on the University.
Question: How long does it take to get a research agreement signed?
Answer: A minimum of two weeks is required for reviewing and signing research agreements. Note that more time is required for complex agreements that require significant negotiation between SMU and the partner. Faculty are encouraged to reach out to the Office of Innovation and Community Engagement (oice@smu.ca) as early as possible to discuss research agreements and what is required to avoid delays.
Question: What are the requirements to be accepted into the Co-operative Education program?
Answer: Completion of all application activities Must declare a major. Have completed 45 credit hours (students typically apply to the Co-op Program the first semester of their second year of study and are accepted into the program based on their December grades). Students must have at the time they apply and maintain, a minimum 2.5 CGPA
Question: What happens once I am accepted into the Co-operative education program?
Answer: Once you have gone through the application process and have received your acceptance letter from the Co-operative Education Department you will be assigned to an Work-Integrated Learning Advisor (WILA). The role of the WILA is to assist you with all aspects of the job search process. As well, there will be training you are expected to attend.
Question: Is there a fee for joining the Co-operative education program?
Answer: No, there is no fee for joining the co-op program. However, there is a registration fee for each work term. This fee is paid when you secure a work term. Current co-op registration fees can be found athttp://www.smu.ca/academics/undergraduate-tuition-and-fees.html
Question: How can I plan my work terms and academic schedule?
Answer: Academic terms are alternated with Co-op work terms; your first work term would normally be in the summer after your second year and then academic terms and work terms are alternated until you complete the requirements of the Co-op program. Work terms are not guaranteed. In some cases students are required to meet with their Co-op Academic Advisor. Most Co-op students spend an additional six months to one year to obtain their degree with Co-operative Education experience.
Question: For co-op program, what if I am an international student?
Answer: All International Students must apply to get a co-op work permit. It is the responsibility of the students to ensure their documentation is up to date. Co-op work terms are not granted until students prove they have applied for the work permit. Once you have applied to the program, the co-op office will explain how to apply.
Question: How do I subscribe or unsubscribe to Alumni communications?
Answer: As SMU alumni, you are automatically added to our alumni mailing lists unless you have indicated that you do not wish to hear from us. This means you will receive our monthly e newsletter and important updates or event invitations. To unsubscribe from communication, simply send an email to alumni@smu.ca and we will note your communication preferences in our database.
Question: How do I prove my alumni status or get my discount?
Answer: Request your Alumni Card which has your student number on it and will give you access to discounts and benefits. To request a card or to replace a lost card, fill out the request form your card will be sent to you in the mail.
Question: As an alumni, How do I access the SMU network?
Answer: Your Self-Service Banner username is referred to as an A# because every username starts with the letter A and is followed by eight digits (eg. A12345678). In order to access Self-Service Banner, you will require your A# and the Self-Service PIN that you received by mail from the Registrar's Office. You can contact the Alumni Office if you are missing your Self-Service Banner information. alumni@smu.ca or 902-420-5420 Computer Account (S#) This account is used to access email, network drives, SMUport, campus computers, and other services. Your computer account username starts with the letter S and is followed by seven digits (eg. s1234567). To activate your computer account, use Activate. Activate will require you to create/change the s# password. You need your A# and Self-Service PIN in order to use Activate. Your pin by default is your birth date in the form of ddmmyy (Ex July 1, 1985 = 010785). If you require assistance, please contact the Service Centre: Phone: 902-420-5582 Email:service.centre@smu.ca
Question: I'm a new grad. Can you help me find a job?
Answer: In partnership with the Saint Mary's University Career & Experiential Learning office, we offer career services to recent graduates. For three years after graduation, alumni can access career counselling and job search support. If you have graduated within the last three years and need help with your next step please contact Career Services at 902-420-5761 or career.services@smu.ca, or visit their office on the 4th floor of the Student Centre.
Question: I'm an established professional; can I offer mentoring services to new grads?
Answer: One of our greatest resources is our vast network of alumni who are pursuing successful and rewarding careers in government, education, business and the military. For our students, they provide an invaluable resource of intellectual capital; providing mentorship, serving as guest lecturers in our classes, as members on our advisory boards, and as distinguished judges in student competitions. If you are interested in providing speaking or mentorship services for students, please contact alumni@smu.ca
Question: How do I donate to SMU?
Answer: We appreciate the support from our alumni and friends through the Santamarian Fund, capital gifts and bequests. For more information on how you can support Saint Mary's students or to give a gift online, visit the SMU Development website.
Question: How can I purchase SMU clothing or a grad ring?
Answer: Visit the Saint Mary's bookstore to purchase SMU and SMU Alumni clothing or to order a graduation ring. The bookstore is located on the 2nd floor of the Student Centre, you canorder online or contact 902-420-5196.
Question: As an alumni, can I still access library materials?
Answer: SMU alumni are welcome to use the following library resources: Novanet and SMUWorldCat library catalogues (also available off-campus) e-books and e-journals (in-library use on guest computers only)* most research databases (in-library use on guest computers only)* print collections microform and microform readers photocopiers, printers and fax machine reference and research services *Off-campus access to SMU's electronic materials and research databases is restricted to currently registered SMU students, faculty, and staff. SMU alumni can still borrow books. As part of Nova Scotia's Borrow Anywhere Return Anywhere (BARA) policy, members of the public (Nova Scotia residents 19 or older) may use a public library card to borrow materials at any Novanet library. For more information about borrowing materials from the Library, please contact the Circulation Desk at 420-5547 or email at access@smu.ca.
Question: How do I make the most of my first year at University?
Answer: Consider your first year a transition year. You are learning in a new way, making personal contacts, getting used to a new home and exploring new fields of study. Give yourself time to adjust. Meet with your academic advisor to discuss your plans Get to know your professors. Keep an eye on important dates and important information with the help of Welcome Weeks programs, the Academic Calendar, the Community Bulletin and university social media channels. Monitor midterm and final results. Learn from study skill and program workshops, information sessions and handouts. Use resources provided by the University and fellow students. Ask for help. There are many resources available to help you stay on track; seek out the assistance you need.
Question: How do I make sure that my degree program is on track?
Answer: Consult the Academic Calendar for the regulations, pre-requisites, and to find out what course you'll need for a major or minor. Make contact with your Academic Advisor and meet with that person at least once a year. After your first-year grades are in the system and you have declared a major, you can track your progress using Degree Works (on Banner Self-Service).
Question: What can an Academic Advisor do for me?
Answer: choose your program or major sequence your courses for best use of your time understand degree requirements and academic regulations plan strategies to achieve your educational and career goals understand the impact of poor grades (probation and withdrawals) take the right steps to cope with unexpected situations (illness or family circumstances) which affect your studies fulfill requirements to take courses at other universities (letters of permission) fit study-abroad programs into your degreeThe Advisors can also help in tricky situations to: liaise with other university departments informally resolve concerns and questions help you to understand how to make an appeal recommend a skills service such as a workshop, tutoring, or library resource recommend other specialized services such as family care, accessibility services, or career resources refer students to confidential services such as health, psychological and crisis-response services
Question: Who is my Academic Advisor?
Answer: Consult the Academic Advising page for a list of advisors by faculty.
Question: What are my responsibilities as a Saint Mary's student?
Answer: You are responsible for ensuring that you meet the requirements of your academic program. It is up to you to take advantage of support services, including academic advising, and to ask for help when you need it. Be honest with your advisors, professors, and yourself regarding your program, your progress, and your interactions with the university community. To participate in the free exchange of ideas and to respect a wide range of opinions and ideas.
Question: Is it slower to stream applications compared to locally installed applications?
Answer: The first time you launch software it is slower to start but because it is cached, after the first launch the application runs at a similar speed to locally installed software.
Question: Why can't I find SPSS (or another application) under the Programs Menu?
Answer: Until an application has been run once it isn't virtually installed on the system, so the only way to launch it is through the AppsAnywhere portal.
Question: I closed the AppsAnywhere portal browser window - how do I re-launch it?
Answer: Click on theLaunch AppsAnywhereicon on the desktop.
Question: I inserted my USB key and double clicked on MyProjectStats.sav file, and Windows says it can't find an application to launch it. I thought SPSS was available on my machines?
Answer: It is available, but it isn't installed until the first time it is launched from AppsAnywhere. To open your MyProjectStats.sav file go to the AppsAnywhere browser portal window and scroll, or search for SPSS and launch it. Then open the file from within SPSS. After an application has been run once on a system, clicking on MyProjectStats.sav will launch SPSS.
Question: There are a lot of applications - how do I find my application quickly?
Answer: You can use the search box in the top right corner to search for an application. The keyboard shortcut, s, takes you directly to the search box. See the search video for a demonstration.
Question: Can you save your work locally?
Answer: Yes, the application runs locally on your PC so you can save locally. When using AppsAnywhere on campus lab computers you can save to your OneDrive so that your files will be available anywhere.
Question: Where are the AppsAnywhere servers located?
Answer: They are located in SMU's Azure Cloud location hosted in Microsoft's Canadian data centre.
Question: What happens if AppsAnywhere crashes - will my lab be ruined?
Answer: There are redundant load balanced servers implementing this service, so a single server crash will not affect software availability. In the extremely rare event that multiple servers are down, you wouldn't be able to launch software.
Question: How does AppsAnywhere work?
Answer: AppsAnywhere utilizes app streaming, with CloudPaging software, to quickly deliver applications over the network.Applications must be "cloudified" by SMU ITSS before they can be delivered via streaming.
Question: I see an "Application is no longer authorized and must be re-issued. The application will be terminating" message when I try to launch an application from Cloudpaging Player, which has previously launched.
Answer: This message indicates that the application session has expired. To renew the session, the application has to be relaunched from the web portal. Login to https://appsanywhere.smu.ca, select the application and click Launch.
Question: How does COVID impact residence?
Answer: Individuals are required to abide by any and all University, federal and provincial government, Public Health, and NS Health authority COVID-related directives, guidelines, and regulations at all times. Masks are welcome, but not required, in residence
Question: What if I test positive for covid or have symptoms in residence?
Answer: Please review the applicable information from Nova Scotia Health regarding your situation: https://www.nshealth.ca/i-have-covid-19-symptoms https://www.nshealth.ca/testedpositiveforcovid Follow guidance and instructions provided by Public Health, including getting testing done as directed. Housing & Residence does not track COVID isolations in residence or provide/manage isolation meals. Residents required to isolate or "stay home" should arrange for their own isolation meals / food delivery and follow Public Health / NS Health guidelines. Sick Meals for Residence Information. Sick trays / sick meals can be arranged in advance for pick-up by filling out our COVID / SICK MEAL FORM. Collection and delivery of these sick tray meals are normally via friends/floormates or the student themselves (as long as they wear a mask while travelling to and from the dining hall / while picking up their meals).
Question: How do I apply for SMU residence?
Answer: RESIDENCE APPLICATIONS for the 2024-25 Academic Year will open February 1, 2024.* Students attending Saint Mary's who are interested in living in residence can apply online through our Housing Portal. Please Note: New SMU students must first pay the admission deposit in order to activate their SMU credentials (S# and SMU email). These credentials will then allow them to access the Housing portal. Bed spaces in residence are assigned based on a number of factors, including seniority and deposit date, but preferences are not guaranteed. If your preferences are not available, you will be assigned to any available bed space. Students currently living in residence who wish to re-apply to live in residence the following academic year should check their SMU email in January for information on the re-application / seniority process.