Photo Courtesy / Anna-Maria Kalesoski
You can’t be at UTSC for four years without having tips to pass on to the class of 2015. So, pull up a chair and start taking notes.
1. If you’re a commuter student, make friends with res students and vice versa.
Seriously, it’s a win-win situation for both parties. If you’re a commuter student, a friend on residence will be your key to res parties. Not to mention, you’ll have a place to crash during exams and won’t have to resort to falling asleep on the bus or in your car. For a res student, there’ll always be something you forgot to buy (most likely toilet paper). This is when borrowing a Metropass or getting a quick ride comes in handy.
2. Bring food to campus.
It’s exam time and you’re pulling a late night study session at school when your stomach starts rumbling and you can’t ignore it. You grab your wallet but realize it’s after 9 p.m, and most of the food outlets are closed. Your only option is the unhealthy (and unsatisfying) vending machines. If you’re meeting a group, it’s a good idea to pool snacks and money for late night munchies. Packing healthy food from home is also a good idea (i.e. dried fruits, granola bars, and nuts).
3. Get involved on campus.
UTSC offers many jobs on campus for students, which is a good way to meet people and make some money. Most of these jobs are well-suited to a student’s busy schedule. Check out resources like the Academic Advising & Career Centre, the SCSU and Intranet. Clubs-wise, UTSC has just about everything covered. Joining a club is a great networking tool and resume builder.
4. Be true to yourself.
Do you suddenly hate the program? The campus? That’s common, and many graduates change programs over the course of their studies. Don’t stress. You don’t declare a major or minor until the end of first year, so take the time to explore your options. Talk to your program supervisor and other students to find out if the program is really for you. Also, take courses that truly interest you and aren’t just program requirements. If you really aren’t satisfied, there’s nothing wrong with switching campuses or even universities
For the love of God, keep writing these arctiles.
“Not to mention, you’ll have a place to crash during exams and won’t have to resort to falling asleep on the bus or in your car.”
Residence actually has rules about letting guests stay over, and it’s a great way to piss off the housemates!