This session will provide an in-depth look at how Vancouver Community College (VCC)’s International Education team designs and delivers a holistic onboarding and orientation process that supports international students from the moment they receive their VCC Letter of Acceptance through their first weeks on campus. With a strong emphasis on early engagement, social connection, and cross-departmental collaboration, our approach aims to help students feel a sense of belonging before their studies begin. This presentation highlights the distinctive elements that shape this model.

Attendees will learn about VCC’s multi-phase approach, including:

• Seamless transitions from Admissions to International Student Services (ISS) and early engagement strategies.
• Comprehensive pre-arrival supports, such as bi-weekly newsletters, in-market pre-orientations, and our self-paced Moodle resource course, the International Student Success Toolkit.
• Community-building initiatives, including in-person peer mentorship and social connection activities designed to strengthen belonging before classes begin.
• International Student Orientation (ISO) components, including phased online orientations, family-focused supports, partnerships with Service Canada/CRA, and integration with the college-wide Welcome Week.
• Collaboration with internal campus partners, highlighting how multiple departments contribute to a cohesive pre-arrival and arrival experience.

The session will also share outcomes, lessons learned, and practical insights relevant to institutions seeking to enhance international student transition and success. Participants will be invited to exchange best practices and discuss approaches that foster confidence, connection, and readiness among incoming students.