VIU Student Impact Projects are designed to provide meaningful, skill-building opportunities for VIU students while supporting faculties in completing short-term projects. Funded through the VIU Foundation, the program emphasizes academic engagement and professional development for eligible students.
Students will receive awards for their project involvement. The awards will be deposited directly to the student’s account. Deposits will happen twice per semester, with 50% of the award deposited mid-semester and the remainder deposited at the end of semester. Please see below for award amounts per project hours and anticipated average hours per week.
Project Hours per Semester | Award |
|---|---|
65 | $1,500 |
55 | $1,300 |
45 | $1,000 |
35 | $800 |
25 | $550 |
2026-27 student projects
Dates: September 2 to November 30, 2026
Hours: up to 65
Location: Nanaimo campus
Description
The RREC Assistant supports Arts & Humanities with multiple annual and one-off initiatives. Duties: logistics, scheduling, organizing activities, correspondence, and hosting RockVIU, VIUFest, BA Class Shadow Days, Career Fairs, and Global Citizens Forum. Marketing, developing promotional materials, generating socials content, connecting with students, sharing publicity, leading events, and hosting information tables all celebrate the scholarly activity of A&H faculty and students.
Student learning opportunity
- communications, graphic design, public speaking
- awareness about all areas in the faculty of arts and humanities
- event coordination, video editing, uploading content to diverse socials platforms
- keen to learn about university processes and contribute to raising the profile of Arts and Humanities on campus and beyond
- organizing, scheduling, correspondence, problem solving, team dynamics
Required skills and scholarly background
- Arts and Humanities major preferred, but all disciplines welcome to apply. Communication, social media, graphic designability to work some evenings and weekends
- public speaking, hosting, connecting with people
- knowledge of VIU and Arts and Humanities programs
- personable, enthusiastic about University education
- friendly, able to multi-task
Preferred Skills
Ability to build partnerships, develop relationships.
Expected schedule
The RREC schedule features RockVIU and VIU Fest in the fall, plus Global Citizens Forum, the new BA Class Shadow Days project, and various departmental initiatives that are not yet scheduled.
On campus/hybrid/etc.
Multiple locations including outdoors, Malaspina Theatre, Liberal Studies lounge, Gustafson Lecture Theatre, Royal Arbutus Room
Dates: August 3 to August 31, 2026
Hours: up to 25
Location: Nanaimo campus
There are two positions available for this project.
Description
Key tasks and responsibilities are as follows:
- read articles related to setting up a studio
- inventory of current ECEC program curriculum learning supplies in Building 180 Room 412 and move to Building 356 Room 215
- list of supplies that we need to purchase
- label cupboards in Room 215 to show what ECEC supplies are in them
- box up supplies from Building 180 for movement to Building 356
- invite room provocations in its set up
- set up as environment as third teacher
Student learning opportunity
Student learning opportunities are as follows:
- bring the ECE Early Learning Framework to life.
- create an intentional environment for their peers and faculty that replicates the ECEC field.
- budget materials and choose learning materials.
- collaborate with another student to create the studio space.
- creation of play space learning.
- create a 'living" space.
Required skills and scholarly background
ECEC student currently completing their first year of study and heading into the fall semester or 1st year ECEC student going into the fall semester.
- good communication skills
- organized and takes initiative
- self starter
- curious/creative
- committed to timelines set out for the project
- collaborator /team player
- must be able to lift 25 lbs
- independent but will ask questions when needed
Preferred skills
Must be available during the month of August to complete the 25 hours.
Expected schedule
The two students / project lead will create a schedule for the 25 hours for each student once hired.
On campus/hybrid/etc.
Nanaimo campus.
Special requirements
n/a
Dates: September 9 to March 31, 2027
Hours: up to 65
Location: Nanaimo Campus
There are two positions available for this project.
Description
The project supports two Media Studies students assisting the Colloquium and related Conversations podcast. Responsibilities include:
- transport, test, dissemble cameras
- run multiple cameras to record the Colloquium event
- liaise with Theatre students (record)
- post-production of audio/visual content
- upload recordings to YouTube and manage channel
- record, mix, and edit the Conversations interview
- upload the interview to the Conversations website and maintain website
- liaise with CHLY 101.7FM (broadcast)
Student learning opportunity
Students will leverage technical audio, video, web, and design skills and knowledge of public relations, audience, and events obtained while receiving production credit for a public event. This will be invaluable experience on their portfolios/resumes. The project also champions on-campus, interdisciplinary collaboration as students will work with a variety of faculty and network with those in the audience, as well as CHLY staff and procedures.
Required skills and scholarly background
Media Studies first-to-fourth-year courses. Students should have completed applicable production courses in Media Studies (MEDI 110, 270, 370, 280, 380, 220 or 320) or have related experience working on or off campus in a similar capacity.
Preferred skills
- assemble cameras, lighting, filming, & troubleshooting
- edit audio/visual for clarity, angle, sound, framing, captions, credits
- record, mix, & edit podcasts
- manage and brand social media content and dedicated websites/archives
- liaise professionally with media partners, Colloquium committee, and faculty/peers
Expected schedule - Wednesdays
- September 16
- September 23
- October 21
- October 29
- November 11
- November 18
- February 17
- February 24
- March 10
- March 17
On campus/hybrid/etc.
Nanaimo campus
Special requirements
n/a
Dates: September 21 to November 30, 2026
Hours: up to 65
Location: Nanaimo campus
There are two positions available for this project.
Description
For this project, two Academic and Career Preparation (ACP) students will create media showcasing students across our Faculty’s programs. Media will include a series of short videos highlighting authentic student journeys and lived experiences, which will contribute to a more inclusive understanding of ACP and VIU programs and opportunities. Peer-to-peer connections created through digital storytelling will reduce barriers to access, and support recruitment, orientation, and community awareness.
Student learning opportunity
This initiative is an applied learning opportunity that supports the development of key transferable skills, including communication, reflective practice, leadership, and digital storytelling. Through project planning and execution, students will develop time management and goal setting skills. This opportunity will develop confidence, independence, and agency as students gain experience in decision-making, problem-solving, and navigating responsibilities in a supportive, real-world context.
Required skills and scholarly background
Required:
- strong communication
- reliability
- ability to work independently and collaboratively
- digital literacy
- willingness to support coordination
- organization
- peer engagement
Must be current or former learners in an ACP program.
Encouraged: interest or experience in digital media.
Preferred skills
Interest in storytelling, communication or digital media. Experience with basic video recording, editing, or photography is an asset but not required. Willingness to learn and engage in creative processes is valued.
Expected schedule
Flexible schedule including planning, interviews, filming, editing, and regular check-ins. Schedule will be discussed and finalized by the supervisors prior to the commencement of the work.
On campus/hybrid/etc.
ACP classrooms and campus spaces across participating programs (ABE, WEST, IUBP, and ELL) for planning, filming, interviews, and headshot sessions, subject to availability. Majority of work will be required to be completed at the Nanaimo campus.
Special requirements
Adherence to institutional privacy, media consent, and ethical guidelines required. Training will be provided. Participation includes consent for video and headshot use in approved institutional materials.
Dates: September 14 to November 30, 2026
Hours: up to 65
Location: Hybrid
Description
Support development and implementation of the “More Than” campaign highlighting the value of recreation and tourism careers and their contributions to wellbeing, community connection, environmental stewardship and quality of life. The student will assist with:
- storytelling
- content creation
- educational outreach
- student activity programming
- stakeholder engagement
- communications promoting recreation and tourism career pathways
Student learning opportunity
This project provides hands-on experience in
- advocacy communications
- educational outreach
- event programming
- storytelling
- stakeholder engagement
- campaign development
The student will strengthen skills in
- professional communication
- collaboration
- community engagement
- public awareness initiatives connected to recreation, tourism and wellbeing sectors.
Required skills and scholarly background
Open to undergraduate or graduate students in Recreation, Tourism, Kinesiology or related disciplines. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, organization, professionalism, creativity, and ability to support or lead group recreation or outdoor activities in collaborative settings.
Preferred skills
Experience with:
- group facilitation
- outdoor or recreation leadership
- event programming
- Canva
- social media
- storytelling
- communications/content development
Expected schedule
Flexible schedule with occasional daytime meetings and collaboration deadlines.
On campus/hybrid/etc.
Nanaimo Campus/Hybrid
Special requirements
n/a
Dates: January 4 to April 30, 2027
Hours: up to 65
Location: Remote
Description
Key tasks and responsibilities include graphic design of an interpretive sign for the VIU woodlot, educating visitors about any of the following: BC woodlots, forestry practices, local ecology, history, trail networks and regulatory rules. The lead will work with the Graphic Design student to determine key theme(s), visual selection (maps, illustrations, etc.), readability and layout. The lead will also provide the interpretive text.
Student learning opportunity
This could provide an opportunity for:
- design and technology skills
- collaboration
- leadership
- public engagement
- educational outreach
- project management
Required skills and scholarly background
- proficient in graphic design software
- technical communication skills
- design and technology skills
Preferred skills
Proficient in GIS or mapping tools.
Expected schedule
Flexible
On campus/hybrid/etc.
Can be completed in person or remotely.
Special requirements
n/a
Dates: September 1 to December 18, 2026
Hours: up to 35
Location: Hybrid
Description
The student will organize a grab-and-go kit to be used for biology outreach focusing on anatomy education. The student will document a skeleton assembly workflow and help create clear instructions and educational materials for future student volunteers. The result of their work will be accessible to all outreach volunteers as a unit on VIULearn.
Student learning opportunity
This project provides hands-on experience with human anatomy and biological teaching materials while developing organizational and problem-solving skills. Students will gain experience creating workflows and educational resources, which are valuable skills for careers in biology, health sciences, education and research.
Required skills and scholarly background
Interest in biology, anatomy, physiology or health sciences. Previous coursework in anatomy and physiology is helpful but not required.
- strong organizational skills
- attention to detail
- ability to follow instructions
- effective communication skills
- ability to work independently and collaboratively
Preferred skills
Experience with biology outreach, anatomy models or educational resource development.
Expected schedule
Flexible schedule to be arranged with the supervisor.
On campus/hybrid/etc.
Nanaimo Campus
Special requirements
Basic laboratory safety orientation may be required. Comfortable handling anatomical teaching materials.
Dates: September 14 to November 30, 2026
Hours: up to 65
Location: Hybrid
Description
Support first-year Accounting student success through facilitation of weekly peer study group sessions and related academic support activities. The student will help organize collaborative learning opportunities, promote engagement and connection within the Accounting program, foster academic confidence and collaborate with Accounting faculty to support student learning priorities.
Student learning opportunity
This project provides hands-on experience in:
- peer leadership
- facilitation
- communication
- mentoring
- student engagement
The student will strengthen skills in collaboration, academic support, group coordination, and community building while contributing to student success initiatives within the Accounting program.
Required skills and scholarly background
Open to upper-level accounting or business students with strong academic standing and successful completion of first-year accounting courses.
- strong interpersonal and communication skills
- reliability
- professionalism
- organization
- ability to facilitate collaborative group learning activities
Preferred skills
Experience with peer mentoring, tutoring, study group facilitation, leadership activities, or student engagement initiatives.
Expected schedule
Weekly daytime study sessions and occasional planning or coordination meetings.
On campus/hybrid/etc.
Nanaimo campus/Hybrid
Special requirements
n/a
Dates: September 1 to November 27, 2026
Hours: up to 45
Location: Nanaimo Campus
Description
Updating spaces in B315 to be more effective and welcoming learning environments, focusing on the lecture room, Room 216 in Building 315, and the common spaces outside the physics offices.
- work with stakeholder groups (e.g. lecture space users) to re-imagine the learning space
- develop an appropriate lay-out and needed equipment (including work required)
- provide details required to obtain any required quotations and facilitating communicating with required entities (i.e. Facilities)
Student learning opportunity
We anticipate that the likely student will be sourced from the Interior Design program.
This project aligns with skills built within that program and aligns with typical projects that they might normally conduct (e.g. cafeteria re-imagining). Even outside of this program, a prospective student would build skills on effective stakeholder engagement, application of universal design principles within an educational space, and engage with steps within the project management process.
Required skills and scholarly background
Interior Design student. Students should be familiar with CAD and familiar with room lay-out principles. Effective application of the 7Cs of communication.
Preferred skills
Familiarity with inclusive design principles within an education environment.
Expected schedule
Flexible
On campus/hybrid/etc.
On-campus
Special requirements
WHMIS
Dates: September 1 to November 30, 2026
Hours: up to 25
Location: Hybrid
Description
"Pathways and Pizza" has been an annual retention event in the Faculty of Science and Technology. We will be seeking a third or fourth-year BSc. student to help plan the event and serve as moderator for a panel discussion at the event.
Student learning opportunity
Provides leadership, event planning, public speaking skills, as well as collaboration and communication skills.
Required skills and scholarly background
Third or fourth year BSc. student (major or minor in an Science and Technology program or general BSc.). Strong English speaking skills, organized, comfortable public speaking.
Preferred skills
Student rep or student club experience.
Expected schedule
Flexibility during the regular workday to collaborate on the project. One afternoon for the event itself will be required and chosen with the student's schedule in mind.
On campus/hybrid/etc.
Nanaimo Campus/Hybrid
Special requirements
Understanding that any student details are to be kept confidential. The student would have limited access to information on other students, but would likely see student names and possibly student numbers for RSVPs/attendance.
Dates: September 1 to December 18, 2026
Hours: up to 45
Location: Hybrid
Description
This project has two parts: First, a self-guided tour that includes all the locations in and around Nanaimo that Science and Technology programs go to for field trips or classes (e.g. DBMFS, Woodlot, Departure Bay beach, Colliery Dam). A map and descriptions will give prospective students and community members an opportunity to see all the beautiful places our programs partake in. Second, a template for an on-campus scavenger hunt that can be adapted and used for events like VIUFest and PreVIU Days.
Student learning opportunity
A student will get to explore and experience all the places that will be part of the tour. They will build project coordination and organization skills, and possibly design skills.
Required skills and scholarly background
Tourism and Hospitality or Graphic Design student. Strong writing skills, navigation skills, able to hike and climb to certain locations.
Preferred skills
Basic photography, graphic design.
Expected schedule
Flexible
On campus/hybrid/etc.
Various locations, worked out with the student.
Special requirements
WHMIS, Class 5 driver's license.