---

Whether you’re facing academic or non-academic challenges, it’s good to know you’re not alone. Your Students’ Association has a dedicated resource just for you: the Student Advocacy Resource Centre (SARC) at Wyckham House!

To share everything SARC has to offer at its new location in Room Z211, we chatted with Ayesha, the Advocacy Resource and Support Coordinator, to learn about her role and how SARC’s programs support students with a wide range of advocacy concerns.

Keep reading to learn more about Ayesha’s role at the Students’ Association and how SARC provides essential support and guidance for students facing academic or personal challenges.

Tell us about yourself!

I’m Ayesha Khalid, the Advocacy Resource and Support Coordinator here at SAMRU. I’ve been with the team since 2019, focusing on empowering students and helping them build the skills to advocate for themselves. Outside of work, I’m passionate about travelling and enjoy painting in my free time.

What is the Student Advocacy Resource Centre?

The Student Advocacy Resource Centre (SARC) provides confidential services and support to individual students who have academic and/or non-academic advocacy concerns and questions.

What types of services and support do you offer to students?

Some of our services include final grade appeals, requirements to withdraw, incomplete grades, withdrawal with cause, correspondence review and more. We also help students prepare for meetings and accompany them as support people.

A common misconception is that we advocate on behalf of the student, which is not the case. Rather, we empower and help equip students with the skills they need to advocate for themselves.

Lastly, we also provide internal and external resources to students in need so they feel supported on and off campus. 

What do you hope students take away from their experience with SARC?

I hope that when students leave the centre, they feel empowered, heard and have adequate resources to take the next steps. I want students to be aware that they are not alone in times of distress, and that SARC is there to support them as they navigate through their academic concerns.

Where can students find the Student Advocacy Resource Centre?

SARC is here to support you on the second floor of Wyckham House in Room Z211. We’re open Monday through Friday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm, and while walk-ins are welcome, booking an appointment helps us to best serve you. To make an appointment, head to the SAMRU website and fill out our online booking form or access the link here. Our team will follow up to confirm a time that works for you – either online or in person.

Anything else you’d like to add?

I am aware that advocacy may seem a bit daunting at times, especially in crisis. However, we try our best to help maintain a welcoming and positive environment while we support students through their journey. We look forward to meeting you!

---

You can reach Ayesha at advocacy@samru.ca or book an appointment anytime Monday through Friday, from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm. 

For general inquiries, contact us at info@samru.ca.