Nicola Valley Institute Of Technology

Student Housing Handbook2017-2018

nvithousing.ca

Important NumbersGENERALNVIT Front Desk 250-378-3300 x300 Nicola Valley Institutie of Technology 250-378-3300

SECURITY Emergencies 911 Royal Canadian Mounted Police (non-emergencies) 250-378-4262 Nicola Valley Aboriginal Community Justice Program 250-378-5010

MEDICALGranite Medical Clinic 250-378-9020 Nicola Valley Health Centre (Hospital) 250-378-2242

STUDENT HOUSING NVIT Student Housing Phone: 250-378-34144165 Belshaw Street Fax: 250-378-3332Merritt, BC Email: info@nvithousing.caV1K 1R1 Web: www.nvithousing.ca

WELCOME Dear Student: Welcome to the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology Student Housing. As the Manager, I would like to officially welcome you to your new home. Our mission is to provide an environment that supports the educational and social development of our students. Living in Student Housing is a unique experience that will provide opportunities for you to learn more about yourself. You will have the pleasure of meeting people of varied backgrounds and ethnicities and will become part of this dynamic community through an active Student Housing Life Program designed to meet your needs as a student and guest of our facility. In addition to your fellow students, elders and colleagues of the Student Housing are available to assist and guide you throughout the year. We are committed to being a positive influence on both your social life as well as your academic life. We will endeavour to ensure that your stay with us will be pleasant and enjoyable, where you will meet many new people and create memorable experiences that will last a lifetime. I would like to extend you my best wishes for your current and future academic studies, and look forward to meeting you. Joel Ingram General Manger TABLE OF CONTENTS Contact Information 4 Important Dates 5 Housing Staff 6 Living In Housing Move-In Day Procedures 7 Student Housing Agreement (SHA) 7 Insurance 7 Appliance Information 8 What To Bring & Not To Bring 8 Decorating Your Suite 8 Living With Floor Mates 9 Housing Open Forum 9 Healthy Living 9 Personal Safety 9 Withdrawal From Housing 10 Move-Out 10 Extending Stay - Summer Term 10 Supporting Your Success - Personally & Academically 10 STUDENT HOUSING Community Living Standards Objectives of the Housing Community Living Standards 11 Rules that Affect You in Student Housing 11 Housing Citizenship 13 Offenses and Sanctions 15 Judicial Procedures 23

Emergency Procedures Fire 29 Students with Disabilities 29 Health Emergency Procedures 30 Alarms/Smoke Detectors 30 General Information Housing Security 31 Smoke Free Facility 31 Keys 31 Visitors & Overnight Guests 32 Noise 32 Parking 32 Cleaning 32 Laundry 32 Kitchen 32 Dining 32 Lounges 33 Vending 33 Maintenance 33 Garbage & Recycling 33 Internet 33 Telephone 33 Protect Your PC 33 Energy Conservation 35 Frequently Asked Questions 37 Parking 37 Telephone Directory 38 Nvit Staff Directory 40 Community Services 41 Library 42 Directions 43 Office SerVICES 43 CONTACT INFORMATION IMPORTANT DATES SUMMER SEMESTER 2016 May 2, 2016 Summer Move-In Day May 4, 2016 Classes begin

May 8, 2016 Summer Room Inspection Form Deadline FALL SEMESTER 2016 September 5, 2016 Official Move-In Day September 8, 2016 Orientation Days September 8, 2016 Classes begin September 9, 2016 Room Inspection Form Deadline November 1, 2016 January Acceptance Package Distributed November 15, 2016 Application for Winter Break Stay-over Available November 30, 2016 Fall Move-Out Package Distributed December 1, 2016 Application for Winter Break Stay-Over Due December 8, 2016 Acceptance for Winter Break Stay-Over December 20, 2016 Housing Closes for Winter Break December 20-21, 2016 Housing Room Inspections WINTER SEMESTER 2017 January 8, 2017 Housing Re-opens for Winter Semester January 9, 2017 Classes begin January 30, 2017 Housing Advisor Applications Available February 13, 2017 Reading Week Begins February 17, 2017 Reading Week Ends March 15, 2017 Move-Out Package Forms Distributed April 1, 2017 Summer Acceptance Package Distributed April 1, 2017 Fall/Winter Move-Out Package Forms Due April 1, 2017 Applications available for the Academic Year 2017-2018 April 22, 2017 Move-Out Day HOUSING STAFF Our Housing staff are available to help students adjust to all of the new experiences that come with post-secondary education, such as how to sign up for classes, what services are available on campus, social activities and events on campus as well as around town, and much more. HOUSING STAFF Housing Staff are responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Housing, the safety and security of students, visitors and staff, the Housing Life Program and the enforcement of the policies and procedures. Hours of operation vary and are posted outside the office and on the common area bulletin boards. Housing staff are committed to making your time in Housing a positive and memorable experience that will benefit you for life. HOUSING ADVISORS (HA) The role of Housing Advisor is filled by new or returning students who drive the social activities and community building within the Housing. HA’s provide valuable support and guidance to students, while at the same time acting as a liaison with Housing Staff and Management. The HA’s complete nightly rounds of the building and are a great resource. They have the tools and knowledge to get you the answers, direction and/or assistance you need, or can simply be someone to talk to. HOUSEKEEPING AND MAINTENANCE Housekeeping and Maintenance personnel are responsible for the cleaning and maintenance of all common areas in the Housing. Maintenance will assess Work requests on a daily basis and perform repairs on the

building and in suites as required. They also conduct preventative maintenance to reduce the probability of deficiencies that may cause inconveniences to our visitors and staff. LIVING IN HOUSING Move-in Procedures FALL SEMESTER MOVE-IN DAY PROCEDURES Tuesday, August 26 11:00 am to 6:00 pm Wednesday, August 27 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Thursday, August 28 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Friday, August 30 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Saturday, August 30 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Sunday, August 31 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday, September 1 9:00 am to 6:00 pm **please advise Housing staff ahead of time if arriving after hours listed above After temporarily parking in front of the building, students will first proceed to the front desk where they will review, complete, or drop off any necessary or incomplete forms.(Note: any students missing a payment or Housing forms, has incomplete forms, or needs pictures will not be checked in until the above is properly completed and submitted to the Management of the Housing). Students will pick up their Room Key, Mail Key, Kitchen Cupboard Key, Voice Mail Password and Room Inspection Instructions from the front desk. After checking in at the front desk, students can move their belongings into their assigned room. Students should then move their cars into the parking lot and finish moving their belongings as needed. WINTER & SUMMER SEMESTER MOVE-IN DAY PROCEDURES Saturday, January 4 11:00 am to 6:00 pm **please advise Housing staff ahead of time if arriving after hours listed above Saturday, May 3 11:00 am to 6:00pm **please advise Housing staff ahead of time if arriving after hours listed above STUDENT HOUSING AGREEMENT (SHA) Your SHA is a legal contract. You received this contract in your Acceptance Package. The SHA outlines your financial obligations as well as the rules and regulations we expect you to follow in order to maintain a secure and pleasurable living environment. It is your responsibility to read the SHA carefully and refer to it throughout your stay. If you have any questions regarding the contents of the SHA, please speak to a Manager at the front desk. Please ensure you have a copy of your SHA for your records. If you do not have a copy, see the front desk. INSURANCE You are responsible for arranging adequate insurance coverage for all of your belongings. The Housing’s insurance policy does not cover damage to or loss of your personal items. You should contact your family insurance agent to determine if you are covered under your parent’s home insurance and if so, for what amount. APPLIANCE INFORMATION Other than the fridge supplied in the room, no other refrigeration appliances are to be brought into the Housing. Open element hotplates, deep fryers, indoor barbeques, and fondues are prohibited because of

potential fire and health hazards (i.e. hot oil, open elements/flames, smoke). Irons, toaster ovens, Foreman grills, electric frying pan, coffee makers, electrical kettles that are protected by an “automatic shut-off feature” may be used. A visible serial number and a CSA or UL identification tag must be present and each student must identify and register their appliances with the front desk. Appliances found in rooms that have not been registered at the front desk and / or do not have a CSA or a UL identification tag will have to be removed from the Housing. WHAT TO BRING

• Bed linens – single suite (suitable for a captain’s bed - 39 inches by 80 inches) • Bed linens – family/shared suite (suitable for an oversized double bed) • Blankets, comforter, pillows • Family/Shared suites – toilet paper, toaster, coffeemaker • Towels – bath, face, dish, etc… • Laundry Detergent and Fabric Softener • Personal Hygiene Items, First Aid kit, etc. • Iron with board • School supplies; books, pens, pencils, ruler, stapler, 3-hole punch, tape, etc… • Dishes, glasses, mugs, utensils, pots, pans, etc… • Garbage bags • Alarm Clock/Radio • Computer (if required) – ensure computer has an Ethernet card, modems do not work in Housing • Cleaning Products; Dish Soap, Broom, Dustpan, Rags, Hand-held vacuum, Swiffer duster, Mop

WHAT NOT TO BRING

• Animals/pets, not even fish • Weapons: hunting knives, swords, firearms • Hot plates and deep fryers or appliances with open elements • Candles and incense • Drug Paraphernalia, Drugs, Alcohol • Hooks or nails that will be placed in the wall • Refrigerators or freezers

*Please keep in mind that absolutely nothing is to be pinned, taped, screwed, nailed, or stapled into any wall or furnishing within your Housing room. DECORATING YOUR SUITE

• Nothing is to be affixed to your window to deface or compromise the general aesthetics of the outside of the building.

• The only acceptable form of affixing items to walls is the use of white sticky tack or 3M Command Strips

• You may not decorate the outside of your suite door, unless for special occasions approved by the Management

• Posters within the Housing that advertise for any group or personal reasons must be pre-approved by the Housing Life Coordinator or General Manager

• Decorations should be fire-retardant or flame-proof • Strings of indoor lights should not be in direct contact with any flammable materials and should not be left

on while the room is unattended • Real trees/plants are not permitted in Housing • Artificial snow is not permitted in Housing

LIVING WITH YOUR FLOOR MATES Having people live next to you, and sharing common areas might be new to some of you, so it is important to talk as a community about what is acceptable and appropriate in the community. A way to look at it is to ask yourselves, as a group, how you feel about:

• Visitors and their frequency? • Noise during the day? • The cleanliness of the washrooms, showers & bathrooms

• Leaving your belongings in the washrooms, showers & bathrooms • Leaving your belongings in the dining, lounge and kitchen areas • The cleanliness of the dining, lounge & kitchen areas • The cleanliness of fridges, microwaves, sinks, counter space and dishes

HOUSING OPEN FORUM To increase open communication between students and Housing staff, a forum will take place within Housing every month or as needed. Students will have the opportunity to express their thoughts and provide recommendations to improve the quality of life in Housing. If students do not feel comfortable attending the meeting, they are able to contact a forum representative (i.e. community leader, HA, or Housing staff) to express their concerns and suggestions for improvement. HEALTHY LIVING In a Student Housing environment it is much easier for communicable diseases to spread. Here are some strategies to help keep you healthy and avoid catching some of the germs that may be prevalent from time to time:

• Keep up to date on your immunizations • Wash your hands frequently • Don’t share drinks or cigarettes • Limit your contact with others when you are ill • Get plenty of rest • Eat a balanced diet • Live a balanced life • Maintain a clean suite

PERSONAL SAFETY

• For safety reasons, lit candles, cigarettes or incense are not permitted in the building. • You risk your life and others’ if you tamper with fire equipment. • If you bring friends into Housing you are responsible for their actions and conduct. • Alcohol is not permitted in Housing. • Illegal drugs are not permitted in Housing. • If you are concerned about your safety or anyone else’s, talk to the HA or Housing staff on duty. • Always lock your room when you are not there.

WITHDRAWAL FROM HOUSING If you find yourself in a situation where you can no longer live in Housing, you must speak with Housing staff immediately. Moving out of Housing early does have financial implications. Please refer to the SHA for an explanation of your financial obligations. MOVE-OUT You will be required to move out of Housing by April 30th. Please note that it will take approximately six to eight weeks after your departure for you to receive your $500.00 Security Deposit refund less any outstanding fees. Care must be taken to avoid damage to doors, frames, walls, floor coverings, and any part of your room/suite and the Housing common areas during your move-out. Please note that “23 quiet hours” will be in effect throughout the exam week(s). EXTENDING STAY - SUMMER TERM During the Summer Semester, the Housing is open for summer students. In your Move-Out Package you will be required to fill out a form that will allow you to transfer your security deposit to the summer term. If accepted, you will be required to fill out the Summer Acceptance Package. SUPPORTING YOUR SUCCESS – PERSONALLY & ACADEMICALLY

Moving into Student Housing is an exciting time, but it can also be difficult. Our student life program offers you many different resources and services to help you be successful. Go to our website, www.nvithousing.ca, to learn more about these programs Check Your Drinking How much do you drink? Do you drink too much? How do you compare to the average college/university student? Take five minutes to fill out this survey and learn a little about your perceptions and habits related to alcohol. Once you complete the survey it will give you information that may have a positive impact on your perceptions and habits. iCopeU Stressed out? Anxious? Feeling down? Or, simply curious to learn more about how to effectively cope with the challenges of student life? This interactive website has games, videos, and multiple resources that will help you cope with some of the things that you may find challenging or stressful while living in Student Housing. Making Your Mark How can you maximize your potential in your program, and be really successful? During orientation all students will receive a workbook that can help you answer this question. Workshops will also be provided to you during orientation week. Check out the student life page of our website for more information about the program and the workshop dates. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES FIRE If there is a fire in your room or suite:

• Advise all suite occupants to leave • Close all doors behind you • Pull the fire alarm on your floor and yell “FIRE” • Leave the building using the nearest stairwell • Contact the Fire Department • Meet the firefighters at the front entrance and tell them where the fire is located

If you hear the fire alarm: Leave the building using the nearest exit. Check the door to your suite. If smoke is entering from around the door, do not open it. Protect yourself from smoke inside your suite as described under the Alarms/Smoke Detectors section. If there is no smoke, brace yourself and open the door a little. If you see smoke or feel heat, close the door quickly and protect yourself. If the corridor is clear, take your keys/card, lock the door and go to the nearest stairwell. Check the nearest stairwell door for heat and smoke, if not hot to touch, open the door carefully and use the stairwell to leave the building. If there is smoke or the door is hot, do not enter. Close the door and try other stairways. If there are no other stairways, return to your suite and protect yourself from the smoke. Never go to the roof. Smoke usually rises to the top of the stairway. Doors leading to the roof are locked and you could be trapped. Remember, if there is smoke stay low and crawl under it. If you remain in your suite: You must protect yourself from smoke by staying low. Stay in your suite until you are rescued or until you are told to leave. This may take time. Do not try to leave your suite a long time after the alarm has sounded because there is greater the risk that heavy smoke has spread into the hallways. To keep smoke from entering your suite, use duct tape to seal the cracks around the door, air vents and ducts, and place wet towels at the bottom. If smoke enters your suite, phone the Fire Department and tell them

where you are. If there is no smoke coming in from outside, open the window for fresh air. Show your rescuers where you are by hanging a sheet from the window. Do not return until it is declared safe do to so by a fire official. STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES For students with mobility impairments, please contact the Housing Management upon move-in to discuss evacuation procedures. Students with a hearing impairment will be placed in a suite that is equipped with a strobe light that will notify them of a fire alarm. HEALTH EMERGENCY PROCEDURES Call extension 299 for the FRONT DESK Representative and request that an ambulance be contacted. Provide the front desk with your name, room number, location, and brief details of the problem. This will allow us to direct emergency service personnel to you as quickly as possible. If the office is closed dial 911 for assistance. ALARMS/SMOKE DETECTORS Housing suites are equipped with two types of fire alarms, an audible smoke detector and a heat detector. The smoke detector is activated by minor smoke within the suite. Once the smoke detector has been triggered, only the alarm within the suite will be activated. Do not open the door to the hallway. Open your windows and turn on the bathroom fan to clear the smoke from the room. If the smoke is serious, exit the room and inform the front desk. The heat detector is set off by excessive heat within the suite. Once the heat detector has been triggered, it will set off the main building alarm, and everyone must evacuate the Housing. The Housing hallways are equipped with a smoke detector/heat sensor. Minor smoke or excessive heat will activate the building alarm. Everyone must evacuate the Housing immediately. If someone activates the building alarm, under the Provincial Fire Code, a fine could be applied. The Fire Department has a zero tolerance regarding smoke alarms that are tampered with. Please note the Housing staff will be testing the smoke detector regularly in your suite. Testing the smoke detector ensures that it has not been intentionally disabled. Any occurrence could result in disciplinary sanctions from Management and/or a charge under the Fire Protection and Preventions Act. GENERAL INFORMATION HOUSING SECURITY The Housing buildings offer great security from the moment you pass through the controlled main entrance, until you slide your electronic card into your suite door to let yourself in. We believe the safety and security of our students and staff is paramount. To that end, we require that all visitors in the building be registered prior to entry and provide a valid piece of photo-identification. All of the common areas are video recorded. Safety and security is also the responsibility of every student. All the safeguards and rules put in place by the Housing Management and the Institution are for your safety and protection. Circumventing rules by lending key cards or letting in visitors without permission can only lead to problems. Keep your suite door closed at all times (not “propped open”) and do not leave your valuables unattended as neither the Housing nor the Institution is responsible for missing items. These precautions are for the safety of your belongings and yourself as the suite door allows for a barrier in case of a fire. Why can’t you leave your door open or propped open?

Each suite is equipped with a fire rated door that allows for a barrier if a fire was to happen in Housing. The suite door must be kept closed in order to allow for this barrier to work. Staff will remind students to close their suite door while doing their rounds or close any unlocked door as required. Lock your suite door at all times and do not leave your valuables unattended. You must have a valid room access key to enter any of the corridors and your key will only grant you access to your own room and the common areas. SMOKE FREE FACILITY We are a smoke free facility. Please respect the other students in the building by smoking in designated areas outside the Housing and disposing of cigarette butts in the containers provided. ALCOHOL & DRUG FREE FACILITY We are an Alcohol & Drug free facility. Students and/or guests found consuming or in the possession of alcohol or drugs will be disciplined as per NVIT and NVIT Housing policies. KEYS Room Keycard Upon Move-In, you will be given an electronic suite keycard. Keep your keycard with you at all times as it is your access into Housing, your room, and common areas. Housing Managers and / or staff are not responsible for letting you in your room if you misplace your keycard. Students are responsible for the cost of replacing lost keys. If you are locked out of your suite, you will need to contact the front desk to gain access (charges may apply). Do not lend your keys to anyone! This is a violation of security and you will be subjected to disciplinary sanctions. Mail Key When you check in you will be assigned a mailbox key. If the student loses the mail key, the student will pay a $20 replacement charge for replacing the mail key. VISITORS & OVERNIGHT GUESTS

1. All students are to register their guest(s) at the Housing office. 2. If the Housing office is closed, registration book will be available outside the office and/or with a Housing

Advisor. 3. Students cannot register more than one guest per room or two guests per suite at a time 4. Guests cannot be registered for more than two consecutive nights in a row OR ten nights in any given

month. 5. Guest(s) can ONLY be signed in by the registered paying Housing student of any given suite or room. 6. Students are responsible for any and all guest(s) they sign in and will be held responsible. Students are

responsible for ensuring guest(s) are familiar with all housing rules and regulations & policies and procedures.

7. ALL signed in guest(s) are to be provided with the necessary item provided by the Housing Staff that identifies them as a guest. Guest(s) are to have on their person this item at all times while a registered guest. Failure to abide by this rule will result in immediate removal from housing property.

**The above rules and regulations are subject to change without prior notice Why do visitors have to sign in? The sign in policy was created to ensure a safe and secure place, reduce noise levels, and limit non-housing traffic flow. NOISE The key to successful Student Housing living is in cooperation with, and respect for, other students. The volume of voices, TV’s, and stereos must be contained within your room at all times. PARKING

Parking is free for students who reside in Housing. You will be given a parking pass soon after you check in. It is your responsibility to make sure that it is displayed in your vehicle at all times, otherwise you may be ticketed or towed (at owners expense). CLEANING Vacuums, mops, buckets, brooms and dustpans are available for use and are located in the storage rooms. LAUNDRY Each floor is equipped with a laundry room. These machines are coin operated (there are no change machines and limited change will be available from the front desk during regular business hours. Please clean the lint traps before and after every load in the dryer. Be considerate by not using all the washers and dryers at one time. As well, do not leave your clothes in the machine past the end of the cycle. KITCHEN There is a fully equipped kitchen on the second and third floors as well as a Barbeque on the second floor for student use. Each student will be issued a key to a cupboard in which personal cooking supplies and equipment may be stored. Please make sure that you leave the kitchen and Barbeque in the same condition as you found it. DINING The second and third floors have an area designated for dining. Please be considerate of others and ensure the tables are left in a clean and tidy manner. LOUNGES Each floor consists of a social lounge which is available for use by all students and their visitors. Furniture is provided to benefit the students that access these rooms and should not be removed for any reason. VENDING A coin operated beverage vending machine is located on the ground floor of building A. MAINTENANCE Should you require routine service of any kind (i.e. electrical, mechanical, heating or plumbing), please submit a Maintenance Request Form to the front desk. When tending to maintenance requisitions, authorized Housing staff will enter the room (usually during regular business hours, unless there is an emergency). Plugged toilets and sinks are the responsibility of the student. Toilet plungers can be found in each bathroom and sink plungers can be obtained from the front desk. If a Housing staff member has to clear the toilet or sink the student is subject to a fee of $20.00. Damages to the common areas of the suite and building are your financial responsibility. Where possible, damages that can be traced to an individual will be billed to that individual only. Damages to the building or property caused by your guests will also be your financial responsibility. GARBAGE/RECYCLING You will be responsible for the removal of garbage from your suite. The garbage bin is located behind building B. INTERNET The Internet service is provided through Nicola Valley Institute of Technology and therefore you are subject to the terms of their usage policies. TELEPHONE Your phone number will be 250-378-3414 + your extension. If you would like to call from room to room within the Housing, dial the 3-digit extension. Long distance calls can not be made from Housing phones unless a phone card is used. For local calls dial 9 followed by the area code and phone number.

PROTECT YOUR PC! Step 1: Get Operating System Updates The Microsoft Windows® operating system includes the Automatic Updates feature, which can automatically download the latest Microsoft security updates while your computer is on and connected to the Internet. Other operating systems may require you to update your software manually. All users should confirm that their Operating System is up-to-date by going to: http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com Step 2: Use Up-to-Date Antivirus Software Help your computer stay healthy by ensuring that you have antivirus software installed. Many major computer manufacturers include at least a trial version of a popular antivirus package on new computers. To look for Antivirus software:

• Click Start, and then click Programs. Look for an item in the list with the word “antivirus” in it. • If you already have antivirus software installed, but you want to install a new product from a different

company, be certain to uninstall your current product before installing the new one. Leaving the previous version installed can cause conflicts on your system.

• Is your antivirus software up to date? Out-of-date antivirus software means ineffective antivirus software. Antivirus software relies on regular updates to help protect against the latest threats. If you aren’t subscribing to these updates, your computer may be vulnerable to threats.

• Make sure you have activated a subscription for continuous updates of your antivirus software. • Most antivirus software updates itself when you are connected to the Internet. To ensure your software is

up to date, open your antivirus program from the Start menu or the taskbar notification area and look for update status. If you still aren’t sure if your antivirus software is up to date, contact your antivirus software provider.

Step 3: Use an Internet Firewall Before you connect your computer to the Internet, you should install a firewall. This is a piece of software that helps protect your PC against hackers and many computer viruses and worms. If you have the Microsoft Windows® XP operating system, you can use its built-in Internet Connection Firewall. Using a firewall is an important first line of defense for computer security. Step 4: Use Anti-Spyware Software In order to ensure that your PC operates as quickly and efficiently as possible it is now becoming extremely important to install Antispyware software. Spyware and adware are quickly becoming as problematic as viruses, trojans, and other malicious software. By following the above steps you have taken precautions to help ensure that your computer runs trouble-free on the Student Housing network. These steps should be completed prior to, or as soon as your computer is connected to the internet, as It only takes a few infected computers on the network to degrade overall performance for everyone. If you are running a version of Microsoft’s operating system please visit: www.microsoft.com/security to learn more. ENERGY CONSERVATION Heating & Cooling

• To save money on heating costs, reduce the temperature when you’re away. • Keep blinds, shades, and drapes closed during the hottest part of the day in the summer. (And open

blinds on sunny winter days!). • Do not block your vents, the vents allow air to circulate. • You can turn off the AC when you leave for the day. Contrary to popular belief, this method uses less

electricity than having the AC constantly maintain a cool temperature! Water Heater

• Let us know if your faucets are leaking – the little drips can add up.

Refrigerator

• Set the temperature for only as cold as you need. • Don’t overfill the refrigerator, as this blocks air circulation. Conversely, a full freezer will perform

better. • Allow hot foods to cool before putting them in the refrigerator.

Stove/oven

• When using the stove, be sure to put lids on pots in order to keep the heat in the pot. • Use an electric kettle or microwave to boil water – not the stove, which is less efficient. • Don’t use a bigger pot than you need, and match it to the right size element. • A general rule: for smaller cooking jobs, use smaller appliances (i.e. instead of the stove, use the electric

kettle, toaster oven, or microwave). • Microwave ovens use up to 75% less energy, so whenever possible use a microwave instead of your

stove or oven. Clothes Washer

• Run full loads whenever possible but don’t overload the machine. • Try using cold or warm water, instead of hot water. Hot water shrinks and fades your clothes, and

wears them out more quickly. Clothes Dryer

• Separate loads into heavy, medium, and lightweight items – lighter loads will take less drying time. • Clean the lint filter after every load. A clogged lint filter can increase energy use up to 30%, and may be

a fire hazard! Miscellaneous

• Computers and related components use electricity even when they are not in use. Plug each computer component into a power bar that can be shut off.

• Make sure you enable your computer’s energy-saving features. • Be sure to at least shut off the computer screen, as 60% of the power used is by the monitor! • Less energy is consumed when computers and monitors are turned on and off (as often as required) than

when left on over time. In fact, all electronic devices use more energy when left on, as opposed to being turned on and off as needed.

Lighting

• Turn off lights whenever you leave a room or don’t need them, even for just a few minutes. • Opening your blinds is a free way to brighten up a room. • Keep light fixtures clean – a cleaner fixture is a brighter fixture. • Contrary to popular belief, less energy is consumed when lights are turned on and off as you come and

go than if a light is left on all the time. HELP SAVE ENERGY!

1. Turn off lights when you leave. 2. Turn off televisions, computers, and radios when you leave. 3. Turn thermostat down or off when you leave. 4. Keep air circulation vents unobstructed. 5. Conserve water wherever possible. 6. Use windows and blinds for natural lighting and climate control whenever possible.

RECYCLING Recycling is important for a lot of other reasons. Every recycled glass jar, pop can or newspaper helps to protect the environment. For example:

• Using recycled paper to make paper products requires 65 per cent less water; • Recycling 1 tonne of newsprint saves 19 trees;

• Recycling 1 tonne of glass reduces the equivalent of 1,057 kilograms of carbon dioxide emissions (carbon dioxide is one of the greenhouse gases which causes global warming)

• Recycling 1 pop can saves enough energy to power the average television set for 108 minutes. What can I recycle?

1. Metal cans 2. Glass jars and bottles 3. Plastic containers 4. Aluminum trays and foil 5. Newspapers, magazines, books, phone books 6. Cardboard

What can’t I recycle?

1. Coffee cups 2. Styrofoam 3. Dishes 4. Plastic tubs (used for leftovers)

COMPACT FLUORESCENT LIGHT BULBS Each room has been fitted with compact fluorescent light bulbs. Compact fluorescent light bulbs last up to ten times longer and use 75% less electricity than an equivalent incandescent light bulb. Global warming is caused by greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, a by-product of all types of energy consumption. By using energy more efficiently we can help to reduce the rate of climate change and the damage to the environment. According to the Energy Star program, if everyone in the U.S. replaced one regular light bulb with a compact fluorescent, it would have the same effect as taking one million cars off the road. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS How many spaces are there in Housing? There are 80 beds in 72 suites at the N.V.I.T. Campus. What security features does the Housing have? The Housing offers great security from the moment you pass through the controlled main entrance, until you slide your electronic card into your suite door to let yourself in. We believe your safety is very important. To that end, we require that all visitors in the building be registered prior to entry and provide a valid piece of photo-identification. All of the common areas are video recorded and we have security on site 24 hours a day. Safety and security is also the responsibility of every student. All the safeguards and rules put in place by the Housing Management and the Institution are for your safety and protection. Circumventing rules by lending key cards or letting in visitors without permission can only lead to problems. Lock your room and suite door at all times and do not leave your valuables unattended as neither the Housing nor the Institution is responsible for missing items. PARKING Permission to park or operate a motor vehicle on NVIT property is a privilege granted by the Institution, and does not guarantee the regular availability of a parking space. NVIT and its employees are not liable for any loss or damage to vehicles or contents of vehicles parked on NVIT property due to theft, fire, impoundment or other causes. TELEPHONE DIRECTORY

N.V.I.T (Front Desk) 250-378-3300 x300 City of Merritt 250-378-4224 SECURITY Emergencies 911 Royal Canadian Mounted Police (non-emergencies) 250-378-4262 Nicola Valley Aboriginal Community Justice Program 250-378-5010 MEDICAL/DENTAL Granite Medical Clinic 250-378-9020 Mountain Medical Clinic 250-315-1455 The Medical Clinic 250-378-6222 Nicola Valley Medical Clinic 250-378-5115 Optimum Health Medical Clinic 250-378-6010 Nicola Valley Health Centre (Hospital) 250-378-2242 Lower Nicola Indian Band Health Services Society 250-378-4089 SCW’EXMX Community Health Services Society 250-378-9745 Cascade Dental Care 250-378-4000 Merritt Dental Care 250-378-3620 The Dental Clinic 250-378-6677 BANKING CIBC 250-378-2296 Royal Bank 250-378-5196 Interior Savings Credit Union 250-378-5181 TRANSPORTATION Bus Depot 250-378-2335 Car Rental – High Country RV Rentals 250-378-2234 Nicola Valley Transportation Services 250-378-4080 Leo’s Taxi 250-378-5555 Merritt Cabs 250-378-4444 QUICK PLACES TO EAT Domino’s Pizza 250-315-0123 A&W 250-378-6123 Crystal Gardens Restaurant 250-378-8888 Dairy Queen 250-378-5030 McDonald’s Restaurant 250-378-2170 Subway 250-378-3646 Tim Horton’s 250-378-4661 GROCERY STORES Cooper’s Foods 250-378-5564 M&M Meats 250-315-2348 Extra Foods 250-378-1841 Wal-Mart 250-315-1366 RECREATION FACILITIES Merritt Arena Sports Ltd 2 250-378-4832 Merritt Golf and Country Club 250-378-9414 Planet Fitness 3 250-378-0307 Nicola Valley Aquatic Centre 250-378-6662 Merritt Civic Centre 250-315-1050

Nicolanes Bowling Center 250-378-5252 BAND INFORMATION Nicola Valley Community Band 250-378-9894 Shackan Band 250-378-5410 Nooaitch Band 250-378-6141 Lower Nicola Band 250-378-5157 The Coldwater Band 250-378-4089 Upper Nicola Band 250-350-3342 NVIT STAFF DIRECTORY DEANS Dean of Academic Partnership & Development Weir, Warren 378-3381 wweir@nvit.bc.ca Dean of Instruction & Enrolment Services Chenoweth, John 378-3331 jchenoweth@nvit.bc.ca FACULTY Ahdemar, Faye 378-3362 fahdemar@nvit.bc.ca Instructor Armstrong, Joanne 378-3367 jarmstrong@nvit.bc.ca Instructor Epps, Linda 378-3303 lepps@nvit.bc.ca Librarian Eustache, Darrell 378-3329 daeustac@nvit.bc.ca Instructor Fukushima, Al 378-3338 alfukush@nvit.bc.ca Instructor Jimmie, Mandy 378-3340 mjimmie@nvit.bc.ca Instructor Jules, Harry 378-3328 hjules@nvit.bc.ca Instructor Juricic, Mil 378-3360 mjuricic@nvit.bc.ca Instructor McIvor, Sharon 378-3348 smcivor@nvit.bc.ca Instructor McKay, Nedra 378-3359 nmckay@nvit.bc.ca Instructor Pasco, Matt 378-3321 mpasco@nvit.bc.ca Instructor Wasacase, Kathleen 378-3353 kwasacase@nvit.bc.ca Instructor STUDENT SERVICES Jennifer Lisle - Admissions / Registration Officer 378-3336 jlisle@nvit.bc.ca Student Records Thomas, Kylie 378-3347 kthomas@nvit.bc.ca Registrar Allpress, Amanda 378-3300 admin@nvit.bc.ca Reception Grismer, Jaime 378-3334 jgrismer@nvit.bc.ca Finance Clerk Quewezance, Tessa 378-3336 tquewezance@nvit.bc.ca Communication & Events Garcia, Clint 378-3392 cgarcia@nvit.bc.ca Marketing / Recruiter COMMUNITY SERVICES HEALTH AND COUNSELLING Nicola Valley General Hospital 378-2242 Conayt Friendship Society 378-5107 Dental Clinic 378-6677 Dr. Smith 378-4000 Merritt Health Unit 378-3400 Merritt Mental Health Centre 378-3401 Merritt Victim Services 378-5699

Nicola Family Therapy 378-9222 Nicola Speech and Language Service 378-4593 Raven Program (Adolescent Outreach Worker) 378-4878 Scw’exmx Child & Family Services Agency 378-2771 Syemyim Transition House 378-0881 Black’s Pharmacy 378-2155 Pharmasave 378-9238 DAYCARE AND EDUCATION Bench Family Daycare 315-1444 Dandelion Childcare Centre 378-9293 Dawn’s Family Daycare 378-4781 Families Matter 378-6005 Honeypot Daycare 378-3729 Jane’s Family Daycare 378-0846 Jeannie’s Family Daycare 378-2609 Karen’s Place Family Daycare 378-2706 Kids Club After School 315-1050 Lisa’s Place Family Daycare 378-1839 Little Munchkins Daycare 378-4976 Little Skipper’s Daycare 378-4849 Maranatha Christian Pre-School 378-2626 Marilyn Long’s Family Daycare 378-3513 Merritt Moms & Families 378-2252 Nana’s Family Daycare 378-4569 Nicola Valley After School Program 378-2973 Roots Family Daycare 378-6008 Head Start 350-3498 Sheri’s Family Daycare 378-9750 Tykes Family Daycare 378-4953 White Bear Daycare 315-1331 ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS School District No. 58 378-5161 Collettville Elementary School 378-2230 Diamond Vale Elementary School 378-2514 Merritt Bench Elementary School 378-2528 Merritt Central Elementary School 378-9931 Nicola Canford Elementary School 378-2172 Coquihalla Middle School 378-6104 Merritt Secondary School 378-5131 Directed Studies Centre 315-1218 South Central Interior Distance Ed School 378-4245 Lower Nicola Band School 378-5527 N’Kuala School 350-3370 Tumbleweed Playschool 378-8885 MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES Nicola Valley & District Food Bank 378-2282 Century 21 Real Estate 378-6166 Homelife Merritt Real Estate 378-6181 Bedford Apartments 378-2581 Grandview Heights 378-2334 Kengard Manor 378-5614 Sumac & Tamarack Gardens 378-5107

Three Eagles Affordable Housing 378-5262 LIBRARY HOURS OF OPERATION: SEPTEMBER - APRIL Monday - Thursday 8:30 AM – 8:30 PM Friday 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM Saturday 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM Sunday 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM HOURS OF OPERATION: MAY - AUGUST Monday - Friday 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM The Institution librarian is Linda Epps, and the library coordinator is Sherry Garcia. Student staff workers are hired in September and sometimes January; attending students are invited to apply. The NVIT library houses over 14,000 texts in a variety of subject material to meet the needs of the NVIT students, and research needs of the local community. A large computer lab is also located in the library to further assist students with accessing the local index catalogue, and catalogues of online resources. Other services include resource material related to writing and citing in the development of essays and research papers, in-class orientation workshops in development of research skills, and interlibrary loans of texts not currently found within the library. For more information on library services contact: Linda Epps 378-3303 or lepps@nvit.bc.ca **For complete and up to date list of NVIT staff and faculty & services please refer to the NVIT website, handbook or NVIT main office DIRECTIONS FROM VANCOUVER AREA

• Take the Coquihalla Hwy (Hwy 5) north to Merritt • Once in Merritt turn off onto Voght St (Hwy 5A) • Turn right on Belshaw Street

FROM KAMLOOPS AREA

• Take the Coquihalla Hwy (Hwy 5) south to Merritt • Once in Merritt turn off onto Voght St (Hwy 5A) • Turn right on Belshaw Street

FROM KELOWNA AREA

• Take Hwy 97 to Hwy 97C to Merritt • Once in Merritt turn left onto Voght St. (Hwy 5A) • Turn left on Belshaw Street

OFFICE SERVICES AVAILABLE AT NVIT STUDENT HOUSING PHOTOCOPYING - Black & white only 8 1/2 X 11 Paper Size $0.50 8 1/2x11 Paper Size $0.10 (5 Pages) $2.00 (25 Pages) $2.00 (10 Pages) $3.50 (50 Pages) $3.50 (25 Pages) $6.50 (100 Pages) $6.50 (50 Pages) $12.50

(100 Pages) $24.50 8 1/2x14 Paper Size $0.25 (25 Pages) $6.00 8 1/2 x 14 Paper Size $0.75 (50 Pages) $11.50 (5 Pages) $3.00 (100 Pages) $22.50 (10 Pages) $5.25 (25 Pages) $9.75 11x14 Paper Size $0.40 (50 Pages) $18.75 (25 Pages) $9.00 (100 Pages) $26.75 (50 Pages) $17.50 (100 Pages) $32.50 SCANNING 8 1/2x11 Paper Size $1.50 8 1/2x11 Transparency $1.50 Black & White graphic (25 Pages) $36.00 (50 Pages) $70.00 8 1/2x11 Paper Size $2.00 (100 Pages) $135.00 Black & White text NOTES

Important NumbersGENERALNVIT Front Desk 250-378-3300 x300 Nicola Valley Institutie of Technology 250-378-3300

SECURITY Emergencies 911 Royal Canadian Mounted Police (non-emergencies) 250-378-4262 Nicola Valley Aboriginal Community Justice Program 250-378-5010

MEDICALGranite Medical Clinic 250-378-9020 Nicola Valley Health Centre (Hospital) 250-378-2242

STUDENT HOUSING NVIT Student Housing Phone: 250-378-34144165 Belshaw Street Fax: 250-378-3332Merritt, BC Email: info@nvithousing.caV1K 1R1 Web: www.nvithousing.ca

Student Housing professionally managed by Campus Living Centres Inc.