Early Assist: Student Information

Universities are big organizations, and knowing where to turn to for help is not always clear. An Early Assist program can tell you about campus resources, help you figure out which support works for you, and help you develop a plan for accessing help.

Are you a student who would like to know more about Early Assist? Review our Frequently Asked Questions Guide for more information.

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How does Early Assist work? 

Early Assist does not replace the way Faculty and Staff currently support you but enhances that support. When you are facing difficulties, your Professor/Instructor may reach out to you directly or may use Early Assist to address the concerns they are having. 

When an alert is submitted by faculty, it is reviewed by the Early Assist Team and Academic Advisors to identify the most appropriate way to contact you and connect you with the support you need.

 

Why was an alert submitted about me? 

Early Assist is meant to provide assistance to students who need additional support because of a setback or challenges that may put their academic goals and success at risk. An alert is submitted by Professor/Instructor to Early Assist when there is an opportunity to offer you support.

 

Will Early Assist impact my Academic Record or decisions related to funding? 

No. Early Assist is not connected to your academic record and cannot be used to influence your grades or scholarship funding. Your Professor will only know about an alert they have submitted about you, but they will not know about alerts submitted in other courses.

 

Privacy and Confidentiality 

All of your information is protected under Nova Scotia’s Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIPOP). The only people who are able to review information submitted through Early Assist is the relevant Early Assist Team members who will reach out to you to offer support.

Professors are only able to see information they have submitted. They can not view an alert submitted by another Professor.

 

An alert has not been submitted about me, but I need academic help. Who can I contact? 

Early Assist recommends that you contact your Professor/Instructor first if you are having difficulty in a particular course. Visit them during their office hours, send an email, or talk with them after class. Another option is to visit your Academic Advising Office.  Not sure who best to talk to?  Contact the Student Success Centre for further assistance studentsuccess@smu.ca.

 

Is this a form of surveillance? 

At Saint Mary's University we pay attention and when we see an opportunity to help, we will! Early Assist is not a way for the University to track or keep information about you, it is a tool used to help you succeed. We know that challenges can arise during your studies, and sometimes a bit of help can get you back on track.