Thousands of first- and fourth-year students have a chance to shape Brock University’s future by sharing their experiences both inside and outside the classroom.

The 2026 National Survey of Student Engagement, commonly known as NSSE (or “Nessie”) is now open. Eligible participants have received an email from the “National Survey of Student Engagement” to their Brock email with the survey link. All responses are anonymous.

Data collected by the survey plays an essential role in informing teaching, campus life and student supports at universities and colleges across North America, with student feedback directly influencing campus priorities.

Past NSSE results highlighted strong leadership involvement at Brock, for example, and underscored the importance of belonging, connection and accessible support. In response, the University has strengthened the overall student experience by boosting initiatives in these areas, including:

• Continuing to invest in identity-affirming spaces such as the Black Student Success Centre (BSSC).
• Amplifying formal student leadership opportunities such as the Foundations in Leadership Certificate, Mentor Link, the Brock Student Leadership Summit and the BSSC Future Black Leaders Academic Conference.
• Expanding initiatives such as Coffee with a Prof and enhancing first‑year transition programming through events like the New Student Welcome and Academic Orientation, which gives students a chance to meet faculty, learn expectations, and connect with their academic community before classes begin.

Brad Clarke, Brock’s Associate Vice-President, Students, says NSSE remains a key tool for continuous improvement.

“Essentially a census for first- and final-year undergraduates, this survey allows our students the opportunity to provide feedback on what aspects of the student experience are the strongest and which could be improved. This valuable insight helps Brock continue to provide the exceptional student experience we are known for,” he says.

Students who complete the survey will automatically be entered in a random draw to win a set of Apple AirPods, a Brock-branded gift pack or one of 10 $50 Pen Centre gift cards.

Students with questions or wanting to learn more about the survey are invited to drop by the upcoming NSSE event on Wednesday, March 18, where snacks will also be available. Visit the BU4U Student Services Hub in the Thistle Hallway for more details on time and location.