Welcome!

The Office of Intercultural Affairs (OIA) supports International Students in their transition to life and study at the University of Guelph and serves the campus community by fostering an environment of cultural competency and diversity.  At the intersection of academic and co-curricular learning we offer intentionally designed programming and services that foster leadership and community development within an intercultural and international context.  There are two main functional areas within the OIA that support the growth, development and learning needs of students from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, and undergraduate and graduate International students.

International Student Programming, Advising and Support

From the moment an international student accepts an offer of admission, the OIA reaches out to lend support, resource materials and advice.  The International Student Advisor is here to serve the needs of all international students, visiting scholars, new immigrants and refugees. He welcomes everyone to his office - located on the third floor of the University Centre, in Student Life. We also provide a range of programming designed to ease the transition to life and study at the University of Guelph.  From our comprehensive welcome program to LINK, OIA Ambassador initiatives, UHIP information sessions and ongoing workshops and events, we aim to support all International students throughout their time here.

Intercultural Transition Support, Programming and Resources

Our team of staff and Peer Helpers are committed to providing a wide range of educational programming, resources and support services to raise awareness of cultural diversity on campus; to support students from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds in navigating their transition experiences; and to forge important connections between and among cultural groups in the City of Guelph and the campus community.

Contact Us:

Location: We can be found on the south side of the third floor in the University Centre. Our office hours are from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. 

Tom Lusis, Manager, Office of Intercultural Affairs:  tlusis@uoguelph.ca or call 519-824-4120 ext. 52189.

Benny Quay, International Student Advisor: bquay@uoguelph.ca or call 519-824-4120 ext. 53954.

Candace Stewart, OIA Transition & Engagement Coordinator: candace@uoguelph.ca or call 519-824-4120 ext. 58686.