Hello everyone! With school starting around the corner, I want to highlight some important things that you should know as a first year. This is not an exhaustive list, but it sure will help you in starting the year strong. Follow us at @uoftmssa and check out our linktree to get more advice and access more resources like what we have below. We hope to support you throughout your journey here in Toronto. Good luck in your studies!
1. Convert your JOINid to UTORid + Collect your Tcard
If you haven’t already, make sure to convert your JOINid to UTORid! You can book a virtual appointment through CLNx. Make sure to prepare your identification (passport) and your study permit status. In this appointment, the facilitator will provide instructions to set up your school email account as well. If you’re coming to campus, make sure to book an appointment to collect your Tcard. Our Tcard provides access to many facilities on campus, so it’s important to get it as soon as possible.
2. Check out the UofT campus map
Once course locations are available, make sure to use this map to familiarize yourself around campus! Use Google Maps to check the distance between classes and estimate your commuting time. If it’s convenient, check out the course locations the day before your first classes so that you don’t feel too rushed on actual first days.
3. Use Ulife
If you’re joining MSSA, yay! I’m glad you found out about us! Did you use the UofT’s Ulife website? If not, you should check them out. UofT has more than 1000 clubs and student run organizations. You should definitely try some of your interests out! Don’t be afraid to do things that are new. Many clubs are active on social media, so give them a follow to get first hand updates or join their mailing list so you’re notified when they have events planned for their members.
4. Check out the academic resources available
Feeling anxious about transitioning to university life? We got you! UofT has so many academic resources that you don’t have to worry. We have the learning strategist, academic peer mentor, writing centres, peer tutors, and many more. Check out this link here to find resources that cater to your needs. Also, log in to your CLNx to find workshops that discuss important topics. You can find anything from time management to international students Q&A! It’s important to have these resources handy, just in case you need them in the future. Never too late to start building good study habits!
5. Take care of your health
Good grades are not as important anymore if you can’t take care of your health. Make sure to check in with your mental health and personal well being. Familiarize yourself with the available mental health resources by building your mental health toolkit. Engage in activities that help maintain and improve your mood and lifestyle. Did you know that your incidental fees cover access to group fitness classes and several active programs? Join them so that you don’t waste your parents’ money :)
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