May 27, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented unprecedented challenges to the entire world. Post-secondary students have been hit particularly hard by this crisis. From February to March 2020, the number of post- secondary students in the workforce, aged 15-29, decreased by 28%1. Post-secondary students have had to quickly adapt to changing circumstances, and are worried about the effect of the  pandemic on their ability  to continue their studies, find and maintain stable summer employment, afford expenses such as rent and food, and pay tuition in the fall. Students nearing graduation may face difficulty in finding employment in their field of study, reducing the value of their education over the long term.

In April 2020, the SFSS administered a survey to all undergraduate students at SFU and received 2,474 responses. This survey asked a series of questions to better understand how the SFSS can support and advocate for students during this time.

The mentioned report summarized the results of the survey and present recommendations to SFU to ensure the continued success of SFU undergraduate students and recent graduates.

Students are currently facing many challenges, including negative financial, academic and mental health impacts. Many are appreciative to have been given a platform to share their thoughts. According to the Survey, 89.3% of SFU undergraduate students believe that SFU should consult more with students before making big decisions on topics such as grading options and instructor requirements. However, there were many positive comments in the survey commending the work that SFU and the SFSS has done to support students, including specific professors that have made the transition to remote learning during the pandemic easier. We must all work together to improve the lives of students during this unprecedented time.