Premier 2025-26 by AHSC Publications

Welcome to the Faculty of Arts & Humanities at Western University!

We are thrilled to have you here and we want you to have the best experience at Western. There is a lot to take in at the beginning, which is why the Arts & Humanities Students’ Council publishes Premier. The pages you hold are a guide to A&H and Western at large. You’ll find maps, resources, introductions to some very important people, first-year survival tips, and more.

We know it can be a little jarring throwing yourself into a completely different environment, but you have a network of people ready to support you AHSC, the Soph team, your Academic Advisors, your Professors

We hope you make the most of your first year and if we missed anything in Premier, the AHSC and Soph team are happy to answer questions and provide guidance!

Wishing you all the best in your endeavours,

Nicole Hennigar & the AHSC

M a p o f C a m p u s ! M a p o f C a m p u s ! - Council Office, Dean’s Office, Academic Counselling - Blue Light Emergency Phones - Pharmacy, Eateries, Bookstore, USC Offices

WHO WE ARE & WHAT WE DO

The Arts & Humanities Students’ Council are your representatives! We are here to be your voice and provide you with an amazing experience during your time within the Faculty of Arts and Humanities! The AHSC runs numerous initiatives, events, and opportunities for students throughout the year. We are driven by the passionate students of the A&H Faculty We work with you in order to provide the best possible experience!

COME SAY HI

We are more than happy to answer any questions you have or point you in the right direction. AHSC is filled with friendly faces who all love to chat! Our office is located at: University College Rm 2135 Office Hours: Monday to Friday 9:30 a m - 4:30 p m

Meet The team

PRESIDENT CHAHAT GHUMAN (SHE/HER)

The Presidential Portfolio focuses on providing support and resources to other portfolios and members of council. We keep things running smoothly on council, managing more behind-the-scenes tasks such as structure, order, and delegation The Presidential Portfolio plays a key role in long-term planning and fostering collaboration across all areas of council We aim to create a strong foundation so that every initiative, event, and decision is rooted in purpose, clarity, and the best interests of our student community. We strive to ensure AHSC is truly advocating for, representing, and working for the students of the Arts and Humanities Faculty.

The Councillor represents the interests of Arts & Humanities students and liaises between the AHSC and USC alongside the AHSC President

PURUSHOTH MEGARAJAH (HE/THEY) COUNCILLOR

VP ACADEMICSSOFIA KOEHNEN (SHE/HER)

The Academics Portfolio hosts events and study sessions to make the university experience a little less overwhelming! Our priority is to better Arts students’ mental health and make academics fun!

My spoke order is a white chocolate macadamia cookie and triple espresso :)

VP FINANCEHEATHER STANLEY (SHE/HER)

The Finance Portfolio compiles the AHSC budget and facilitates all spending We offer financial support to the Departmental Committees, and we work with the Student Donation Fund Committee to grant money for A&H student projects.

I am obsessed with The Spoke’s breakfast bagels!

VP ADVOCACY ISABELLE FOX (SHE/HER)

The Advocacy portfolio is for the people by the people and of the people We raise awareness and funds through campaigns and events to advocate for equity inside and outside of UWO. The Advocacy team reviews policy, takes notes, and makes suggestions to promote an inclusive arts faculty and a safe space to learn and grow.

I am completely, utterly, and all consumingly afraid of sharks and the notion of a sharknado.

VP EVENTS

THEODORA VULPE (SHE/HER)

The Events portfolio is responsible for planning, organizing, and executing council events that enrich student life, promote community engagement, and showcase arts and humanities! I work closely with other council members to ensure events align with the council’s mission, foster inclusivity, and encourage student participation!

VP PUBLICATIONS

NICOLE HENNIGAR (SHE/HER)

Pubs produces various AHSC publications throughout the year including the one you ’ re currently holding! Each publication has a specific purpose, but they all showcase the unique voices and visions of Arts & Humanities We encourage you to put yourself out there and submit your work to be published!

My go-to Spoke order is a jalapeño cheddar bagel with roasted red pepper cream cheese and a cold brew!

My favourite film is Alice in Wonderland!

department

representatives

FRENCH DR

MARIE JOHNSON (SHE/HER)

Read the Millenium series by Stieg Larsson! :)

ENGLISH DR

MADISON MAYBURY (SHE/HER)

The Perks of Being a Wallflower is the best watch/read of all time

LLC DR

PAIGE STICKNEY (SHE/THEY)

My favourite study spot is Stevenson Hall or Somerville! My Spoke order is a chicken caesar salad wrap :)

SASAH DR

KHADEEJAH ABDUL KHADIR (SHE/HER)

My favourite author is R.F. Kuang!

H E A D S O P H

AS HEAD SOPH, I WORK WITH MY AMAZING PROGRAMMING ASSISTANTS TO MAKE SURE OWEEK RUNS SEAMLESSLY! TOGETHER, WE ALSO LEAD A TEAM OF 28 SOPHS—UPPER-YEAR STUDENTS DEDICATED TO SUPPORTING YOU THROUGHOUT THE YEAR WITHIN THE TEAM, I’M IN CHARGE OF THE ACADEMICS PORTFOLIO! WE TAKE THE LEAD ON PLANNING FACULTY DAY AND STUDY SESSIONS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

ASK ME ABOUT : VOLUNTEERING WITH CHILDREN IN LONDON!

JADYN SMITH (SHE/HER)

P R O G R A M M I N G

A S S I S T A N T

AS THE SPIRIT PROGRAMMING ASSISTANT, I HELP LEAD OUR TEAM AND KEEP THE ENERGY HIGH DURING OWEEK AND BEYOND I OVERSEE THE SPIRIT PORTFOLIO, WHICH MEANS I CREATE CHEERS AND MANAGE OUR SOCIAL MEDIA TO KEEP YOU CONNECTED AND EXCITED ALL YEAR LONG!

ASK ME ABOUT : LITERALLY ANY MUSIC (ESPECIALLY COLLECTING VINYLS)

P R O G R A M M I N G

A S S I S T A N T

AS THE EVENTS PROGRAMMING ASSISTANT, I HELP LEAD OUR TEAM AND I FOCUS ON PLANNING EVENTS LIKE FAMJAM AND ARTS CAMPFIRE! WE’LL ALSO BE PLANNING EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR SO STAY TUNED FOR WHAT’S AHEAD!

ASK ME ABOUT : F1, FOOT PATROL, AND MUSIC.

MADI MAYBURY (SHE/HER)

LAURA NADEAU (SHE/HER)

CAT WALKE

PRONOUNS

ASK

PRONOUNS

ASK

PRONOUNS

DANIELLA LOUBANDHA

PRONOUNS

ASK

PRONOUNS

ASK

JANE OBIYAN

PRONOUNS : SHE / HER

ASK ME ABOUT : BOOKS (LITERALLY ANY GENRE ESPECIALLY MURDER MYSTERY) AND LANGUAGE LEARNING! :)

LIA NATALE

PRONOUNS : SHE / HER

ASK ME ABOUT : SHAKESPEARE

ASK ME ABOUT : HOW TO GET INVOLVED IN THEATRE AT WESTERN

KHADEEJAH ABDUL KHADIR

PRONOUNS : SHE / HER

ASK ME ABOUT : BOOKS!!! MY FAVOURITE GENRE IS HISTORICAL FANTASY :)

MARIE JOHNSON

PRONOUNS : SHE / HER

ASK ME ABOUT : 90S CANADIAN ROCK

RACHEL WEIS

PRONOUNS : SHE / HER

NICOLE WATSON

PRONOUNS : SHE / HER

ASK ME ABOUT : HORROR MOVIES!

ASK ME ABOUT : ANYTHING!! I’D LOVE TO CHAT AND ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT EVERYTHING FROM SCHOOL TO THEATRE TO YOU

RAVEN HUBBER

PRONOUNS : SHE / THEY

ASK ME ABOUT : SUMMER CAMP HOZIER THE SIMS

TALYIAH LERANT

PRONOUNS : SHE / HER

ASK ME ABOUT : VOLKSWAGEN BEETLES AND 90’S NU METAL

PRONOUNS : HE / HIM

ASK ME ABOUT : SUCCESSION, MOVIES, AND MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE

YUAN (FIONA) GAO

PRONOUNS : SHE / HER

ASK ME ABOUT : FUN RHYTHM GAMES

Hi! My name is Amanda. I am an alumna of Western U from way back and more recently of U of Toronto I have worked at the University in different roles for over 20 years My degrees are in Anthropology, History, and Medieval Studies

In advising, we help students navigate different program options and learn about faculty and university resources and opportunities If you ' re experiencing any academic or personal difficulties, it's really helpful to see us as soon as possible so we can work with you to stay on track.

Hi! I’m Ben! I graduated from Western with degrees in English and History and I loved my time here as a student.

I’ve worked at Western for over 20 years and I absolutely love being in Arts & Humanities Our students are the best!

I love reading (especially mysteries), watching films, and listening to music I’m also very fond of animals, especially cats.

Fun fact: I’ve seen over 10,000 films (maybe that’s also a geeky fact)

Get to know your future profs

M. Jane Toswell Professor of English and Writing Studies

I'm a medievalist, working principally on the book of Psalms in early medieval English manuscripts, notably in Old English (the language spoken in England from 500-1100, which is the origin of modern English, but it looked and sounded pretty different). I teach Old English, medieval studies, and medievalism at Western. I started here in January 1989, before which I taught a few years at the University of New Brunswick in Fredericton Over the years at Western I've gotten interested in governance and in how universities work, including many years on Senate and now (for a decade) on the Board of Governors

A course I teach: Medieval Studies 1022

Book or film recommendation: I've been reading the murder mysteries of Tana French this summer; set in Dublin and each excellent in a different way

Professor of Art History

Christine Sprengler

I have been teaching at Western for well over 20 years I teach everything from the first year survey up to the PhD Seminar, with a focus on contemporary art, film, and video I've published three books on various topics: cultural memory and nostalgia in visual culture, how art can function as a form of film theory, and how film constructs (and challenges) our conceptions of history I am currently writing a book on AI and art I am an avid long-distance hiker and enjoy canoeing, camping, off-roading, and archery

A course I teach: Art and Visual Culture: Baroque to Contemporary

Book or film recommendation: Bradford Angier, How to Eat in the Woods: A Complete Guide to Foraging, Trapping, Fishing, and Finding Sustenance in the Wild granted not the usual kind of book recommendation!

M.J. Kidnie Professor of English and Writing Studies

I was inspired to pursue a career in Shakespeare studies after seeing Romeo and Juliet and King Lear at the Stratford Festival The passion and intelligence that actors bring to their craft floors me I try to bring that same passion and concern for the "audience" to my own classrooms, which I think of as a space to work and share and collaborate

A course I teach: So many! TS2201 (Understanding Performance) and ENG3330 (Shakespeare)

Book or film recommendation: Fight Club Read the book or watch the movie They're both fantastic

C

What is a Major? What is a Minor?

Major: A major is a primary area of academic focus It requires a significant number of courses and is a core component of a degree program Students spend a large portion of their studies on this subject, and it defines the specialization within their degree (e g , Bachelor of Arts with a major in Art History).

Minor: A minor is a secondary area of academic concentration. It requires fewer courses than a major and allows students to explore another field of interest without the same level of commitment. Minors complement a major by adding breadth to a student's education (e.g., an English major with a minor in Political Science).

Intent to Register

If you plan to return to Western in Fall 2026, you need to fill out an Intent to Register online through the Student Center By completing your ITR online, you are letting Western know that you are returning, and the program that you plan to take next year If you do not do this, you will not be able to register for courses.

Module Requirements

A module is a collection of courses that defines an area of study. The number of courses included in the module is defined by the amount of specialization in the topic.

Breadth Requirements

In first year, students must include 1 0 course from each of two of the three categories A, B, and C. Prior to graduation, students must successfully complete 1 0 course from each of Categories A, B, and C. SASAH students must also complete a language requirement prior to graduation.

Your Western Photo ID is your lifeline here at Western! It is used for essentially everything.

Gym Membership Your identifier

Meal C ard Needed during midterms & final exams

Bus pass

The publication you’re currently reading is Premier! It’s a guide made specifically for first-year students

by a small team over the summer.

Here we feature important resources and other information we believe you should know!

Premier Premier Semi-colon Semi-colon

The publication you ’ re currently reading is Premier! It’s a guide made specifically for first-year students by a small team over the summer. Here we feature important resources and other information we believe you should know!

of of

Apprentice Apprentice

Semicolon is published twice a year, once every semester.

Semicolon features academic

Apprentice is a publication all about first year. Apprentice features essays from 1000 level courses and creative work from all first-year A&H students. It’s a great way to break into the realm of publications on campus and see your work in print.

Apprentice is a publication all about first year Apprentice features essays from 1000 level courses and creative work from all first-year A&H students. It’s a great way to break into the realm of publications on campus and see your work in print

Semicolon is published twice a year, once every semester Semicolon features academic papers which have received a grade of 80% or higher! Covering a wide range of essay topics and courses, Semicolon allows students to showcase their academic passion

papers which have received a grade of 80% or higher! Covering a wide range of essay topics and courses, Semicolon allows students to showcase their academic passion.

Symposium is published alongside Semicolon and focuses on creative works. It includes creative fields such as poetry, paintings, digital art, photography, short stories, and so much more! Symposium allows innovative students and artists to exhibit their creativity in a upportive environment!

Spotlight is a publication featuring a series of interviews, conducted by current arts students, with UWO A&H Alumni! Spotlight is an amazing way to make further connections and test your writing skills!

Occasus Occasus

Occasus is the Department of English and Writing Studies undergraduate literary journal. It publishes creative work by students enrolled in Department of English and Writing Studies courses. For more information about the journal and submitting to it, visit the department website.

SNAPS SNAPS

SNAPS is the Coterie’s poetry chapbook. It exists to celebrate poetry and the poets who write it. There is one edition per semester with a guiding theme, and everyone is welcome to submit! Keep an eye out for their Fall theme and submission deadline on their Insta @westerncoterie

Tulips: The Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies Undergraduate Journal serves as a platform for undergraduate students to showcase their innovative, interdisciplinary work within the field of gender, sexuality, and women’s studies. The Gender Studies Student Collective, who develops the publication, starts accepting essays and other GSWSrelated work as submissions in early 2025.

Tulips: The Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies Undergraduate Journal serves as a platform for undergraduate students to showcase their innovative, interdisciplinary work within the field of gender, sexuality, and women ’ s studies. The Gender Studies Student Collective, who develops the publication, starts accepting essays and other GSWSrelated work as submissions in early 2025.

CONOCLAS ONOCLAS

ICON is a space to explore our connections between art, identity, and politics in any medium imaginable. Whether it be through poetry, short fiction, creative nonfiction, photography, or visual art, each publication is a conversation between us, you, and the cultural landscape. We want to hear your voice and know your work without inhibitions, filters, or constraints—ICON urges you to be part of the discussion each publication brings forth. We release issues biannually.

ICON is a space to explore our connections between art, identity, and politics in any medium imaginable Whether it be through poetry, short fiction, creative nonfiction, photography, or visual art, each publication is a conversation between us, you, and the cultural landscape. We want to hear your voice and know your work without inhibitions, filters, or constraints—ICON urges you to be part of the discussion each publication brings forth. We release issues biannually

KINO, Western University's oldest film publication, has been produced by the Western Undergraduate Film Society (WUFS) for over a decade, promoting student work through an annual zine that selects the most significant academic papers. In line with WUFS's shift toward student-produced materials, KINO has expanded to include a broader range of content from Western's filmmakers and critics, offering opportunities for students to publish scripts, storyboards, essays, filmmaker interviews, and class papers related to film.

hapbook hapbook

In 2023, Penned by Western published its first chapbook—a collection of diverse written works by club members. Each year, members have the opportunity to contribute to the Penned by Western Chapbook, which showcases their writing and artistic expression. To learn more, follow @pennedbywestern on Instagram, where you can also find the Linktree to explore past chapbooks and discover how to submit your work for the upcoming volume.

Departmental Committees Departmental Committees

Classics Society Classics Society

Our goal is to bring together those with a love for Classics to meet, socialize, and participate in a variety of Classics-themed events, from craft nights to art contests to study sessions! Students from all faculties are welcome and our events are free to attend!

Our goal is to bring together those with a love for Classics to meet, socialize, and participate in a variety Classics-themed events, from craft nights to art contests to study sessions! Students from all faculties are welcome and our events are free to attend!

The Coterie The Coterie

TheCoterieisWestern’sUndergraduateEnglishSocietyandDepartmentCommitteeunder AHSC WeplansocialeventsforstudentsinEnglish&WritingStudies(butyourfriendsinother programscancometoo!),publishcreativework,andprovideacademicresources Each semester,wepublishathemededitionofourstudentpoetryjournal,SNAPS,andhostlaunch partiesaswell!StudentsfromanyprogramcansubmittheirpoetrytoSNAPS Wealsohostan annualthemedLiteraryBallcompletewithfood,drinks,anddancing!KeepupwithTheCoterie onInstagram@westerncoterie

Gender Studies Student Collective Gender Studies Student Collective

Each semester,wepublishathemededitionofourstudentpoetryjournal,SNAPS,andhostlaunch partiesaswell!StudentsfromanyprogramcansubmittheirpoetrytoSNAPS Wealsohostan annualthemedLiteraryBallcompletewithfood,drinks,anddancing!KeepupwithTheCoterie onInstagram@westerncoterie Co-Presidents: DeeDee El-hage and Zoe Li Co-Presidents: DeeDee El-hage and Zoe Li

The Gender Studies Student Collective (GSSC) is a departmental club that represents and advocates on behalf of students enrolled in any Gender, Sexuality, or Women’s Studies (GSWS) modules, as well as our new Black Studies modules Our biggest event is the Feminist Mixer, where GSWS students engage with the knowledge of panelists and speakers from feminist careers We also publish Tulips, an undergraduate publication for GSWS academic and creative work

The Gender Studies Student Collective (GSSC) is a departmental club that represents and advocates on behalf of students enrolled in any Gender, Sexuality, or Women’s Studies (GSWS) modules, well as our new Black Studies modules Our biggest event is the Feminist Mixer, where GSWS students engage with the knowledge of panelists and speakers from feminist careers We also publish Tulips, an undergraduate publication for GSWS academic and creative work

ICONOCLAST was founded on a dorm room floor by a group of SASAH students who wanted to start an interdisciplinary conversation to connect artists across faculties

to connect artists across faculties

Running as a bi-annual publication and accepting your submissions - whether it be poetry, short fiction, creative nonfiction, photography, or visual art - ICON explores the relationship between the social, creative, political, and our internal identities

Running as a bi-annual publication and accepting your submissions - whether it be poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, photography, or visual art - ICON explores the relationship between the social, creative, political, and our internal identities

Come grab a magazine, submit your artwork for our next publication, or just attend one of our killer launch parties!

Come grab a magazine, submit your artwork for our next publication, or just attend of our killer launch parties!

Undergrad Film Society (WUFS) Undergrad Film Society (WUFS)

WUFS is the Western Undergraduate Film Society for the Film Studies Program With the goal of fostering a strong community for film studies and filmmaking on campus, WUFS is committed to providing opportunities, resources, and support to drive academic excellence, as well as to strengthen and share student-led creative productions Throughout the year, WUFS will host events such as a Film Pitching Event for industry feedback and networking, two Peer Support Socials for exam season aimed at those taking Film Studies courses, the launch of KINO (our Undergraduate Film Studies Journal), and our most anticipated event of the year: the WUFS Film Festival is the Western Undergraduate Film Society for Film Studies Program With the goal of a strong community for studies and filmmaking on campus, WUFS is to providing opportunities, resources, and support drive academic excellence, as well as to and share creative productions Throughout the year, will host events such as a Film Pitching Event for industry feedback and networking, two Peer Socials for exam season aimed at those taking Film courses, the launch of KINO (our Undergraduate Film Studies Journal) and our most anticipated event of the year: the WUFS Film Festival

President: Anna Lu Oliveira President: Anna Lu Oliveira

Director: Jules Lee Director: Jules

Creative & Academic Resources

WRITER-IN-RESIDENCE

The Writer-in-Residence is here to help you with all your creative writing needs From poetry to novel work, the Writer-in-Residence is a professional you can turn to for guidance This year ’ s Writer-in-Residence is Anna Chatterton and the Student Writer-inResidence is Jaya Sinha

Anna Chatterton is a playwright, librettist and actor She is a two-time finalist for the Governor General’s Literary Award for Drama and her plays and operas have been produced across Canada and the United States She is the winner of a City of Hamilton Arts Award, a Toronto Theatre Critics Award, and has been nominated for five Dora Mavor Moore Awards, winning the 2018 Outstanding Production of an Opera. Anna’s work as a librettist for the opera Sweat has won an LA Independent Women Film Award for ‘Best Narrative Feature and the Opera America ‘Artistic Creation Award’, Digital Excellence Awards 2024 She wrote lyrics for the song Breathe (composer James Rolfe), nominated for a JUNO award for Classical Composition of the Year Anna was the 2024-2025 Mabel Pugh Taylor Writer-in-Residence at the Hamilton Library/McMaster University and has been in residence at seven theatres Anna holds a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from the University of Guelph Upcoming Children of Fire (cowritten with Shahrzad Arshadi) published by Book*hug Press in May 2026. Read more at annachatterton com

Jaya Sinha is a fourth-year student pursuing a double-major in English Language and Literature and SASAH Her writing has been published in Semicolon, Occasus, and the upcoming anthology book, The Alchemy of Stories: Essays on Literature and Life, as well as performed twice at Theatre Western’s Purple Shorts Festival She could not pinpoint a theme in her work–largely prose and plays–if you put a gun to her head One of the greatest loves of Jaya’s life is theatre: she is currently either directing a show or thinking about the next one When not writing or directing, Jaya can be found crying in the movie theatre, having a good-natured argument, or taking hours to cook a simple meal

WRITING SUPPORT

Need essay advice, cover letter tips, or help with a thesis? The Writing Support Centre is your go-to for all things writing, editing, and academic success You can visit a counselor by appointment in the office at Weldon Library They offer online writing resources and clinics to help with academic writing Just so you know, appointments book up fast during busy essay times (November and March)

Location: 4th floor of the Western Student Services Building room 4100; Weldon Library, Mezzanine, Rooms M14 & M15

Contact: wsc@uwo ca or (519) 661-3655

Hours: Monday - Friday: 8:30 a m - 4:30 p m

OMNI & WESTERN LIBRARIES

OMNI is Western’s Library database You can find the database at www lib uwo ca You can borrow books on the database from other universities through the Pick-up-Anywhere service.

There are seven libraries on campus: Weldon, Taylor, Music, Law, Education, Business and the Archives!

Follow Western Libraries on Instagram: @westernulibs

STUDENT CENTER

Student Center is where you will find information about student records, transcripts, course registration, financial assistance, tuition & fees, exams, graduation, and so much more It will be one of the most important websites during your time at Western

ACADEMIC SUPPORT & ENGAGEMENT

Academic Support & Engagement is here to support you in all academic and personal matters! They provide programming, support, and resources to help you grow in terms of academic identity, leadership, confidence, and much more This is the place you should look for things like accessible education and learning development!

Location: Western Student Services Building (WSSB), 4th Floor

Telephone: (519) 661-3017

Website: academicsupport uwo ca

Email: ase@uwo ca

ACCESSIBLE EDUCATION

Accessible Education can arrange academic accommodation for classes and other course or program activities, as well as provide digital and Braille textbooks, accessible campus transportation, learning strategy instruction for students with learning disabilities, access to computer labs with assistive technology, referrals for assessments and other services, and bursaries for students who meet OSAP's eligibility criteria

Location: Western Student Services Building (WSSB), 4th Floor

Contact: aew@uwo ca or (519) 661-2147

LEARNING DEVELOPMENT AND SUCCESS

The Learning Development & Success team offers resources and support to all students at Western Staff members help students cope with the demands of post-secondary learning, helping to identify strengths and develop new skills and strategies for success

Location: Western Student Services Building (WSSB), Room 4100

Contact: learning@uwo.ca or (519) 661-2183

TAKE CARE OF TAKE CARE OF

Health & Wellness Services

YOUR BODY... YOUR BODY...

Located in Thames Hall 2170, this is an appointment-based clinic providing all types of medical and counselling services to students You can be seen immediately and get a doctor’s note to verify an absence, discuss options surrounding birth control, allergies, immunizations, etc To book an appointment with a doctor at Health & Wellness Services, you can either call or book online Call: (519) 661-3030

Website: https://www.uwo.ca/health/

Hours:

Monday to Thursday 9:00 a m - 7:00 p m

Friday 9:00 a m - 4:30 p m

Student Emergency Response Team (SERT)

The UWO Student Emergency Response Team (SERT) is a student-run, volunteer organization providing emergency medical response to 9-1-1 calls on campus These are students who are trained in emergency medical care and will be the first to arrive at your medical emergency In the case of a MEDICAL EMERGENCY, call 911 For non-emergent issues call Western Special Constable Service directly at (519) 661-3300

Purple Care

As a Western undergrad, you are automatically enrolled in this Health and Dental insurance plan specifically designed to supplement provincial health care and meet students’ needs If you have adequate coverage already and wish to opt-out, you must do so by September 23rd at 11:30 p m

More information is available here: www westernusc ca/services/health-plan/

Pharmacy

Located in the basement of the UCC, the pharmacy provides prescription services and over the counter remedies, as well as items you would find at a variety store like cosmetics and snacks

Hours:

Monday - Thursday 8:30 a m - 7:00 p m Friday 8:30 a m - 5:30 p m

Dietician Services

Saturday 9:30 a m - 4:00 p m Sunday 12:00 p m - 4:00 p m

1:1 nutrition counselling is available on campus for a wide variety of concerns including digestive conditions and sports nutrition These services can be partially or fully covered by the USC’s Purple Care or other health benefit plans Website: https://www uwo ca/health//shs/services/Gut-Healthy-Dietitian html

Rec Centre

Membership to Western’s Student Recreation Centre is included in your tuition There are weight rooms, a pool, cardio machines galore, and many intramural sports to play! For an additional fee, you can purchase a Group Fitness Membership which gives you access to weekly drop-in classes (yoga, Zumba, spin and more!)

Hours: Monday - Thursday 6:30 a m - 11:30 p m Friday 6:30 a m - 8:00 p m Saturday 9:00 a m - 8:00 p m Sunday 9:00 a m - 11:30 p m

Myvirtualdoctor

This service provides eligible students and their dependents 24/7 access to virtual health care through their smartphone, tablet or computer anywhere in Canada! More information can be found here: www mystudentplan ca/purplecare/en/myvirtualdoctor

Counselling services are provided for students living in residence. They provide short-term, confidential counselling to help students manage a variety of mental health and emotional challenges For more information, contact your Residence Advisor or Residence Manager

Location: Ontario Hall, Room 3C10

Email: needtotalk@uwo.ca

Mywellnessplan

Mywellnessplan is a mental health resource open to all students regardless of their enrollment in Purple Care. There are supports for counselling, mental health assessments, personalized action plans, and financial wellness advice

More information here: www mystudentplan ca/purplecare/en/mywellness

Peer Support Centre

The Peer Support Centre is a safe space on campus that provides non-judgemental, non-professional, confidential support from trained peers. Their website offers virtual support and a comprehensive list of mental health related resources Located in the basement of the UCC, it’s also a hidden gem if you ’ re looking for a silent study space.

Location: UCC Room 40 (The Nest)

Hours: Monday - Friday 10:00 a m - 4:00 p m

Mental Health Lines

Good2Talk: +1 (866) 925-5454

The Support Line: (519) 601-8055

9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline: 9-8-8

CMHA Mental Health & Addiction Crisis Centre: (519) 434-9191

Reach Out 24/7: (519) 433-2023

ANOVA 24-hour helpline: (519) 642-3000

First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Helpline: +1 (855) 242-3310

Trans Lifeline: (877) 330-6366

LGBTQ Youthline: (647) 694-4275

YOUR YOUR M I N D MIND

USC Resources

With almost 200 clubs to choose from, there’s something here for you! Get involved during Clubs Week, which takes place in September. This event showcases all of the clubs Western has to offer and provides students with a chance to learn more about the opportunities available within each one! Clubs Week

Spoke & Wave

The Spoke is the home of the famous Spoke Bagels—every Western Student tends to have a favourite combo so make sure to try them out! This casual restaurant and cafe is located on the main level of the UCC and is a great place to meet with friends, grab a bite, or do some studying. The Wave, located one level up in the UCC, has the same benefits (without the bagels), and it functions as a sit-down restaurant and occasional event space. Both locations only employ undergraduate students, so keep an eye out for their hiring events if you ’ re interested in working on-campus!

InfoSource

The USC InfoSource is a campus information centre offering students general Western information about directions, curbside pickup, retail services (custom clothing, locker rentals, event tickets), Health Plans, and more

Location: UCC Atrium

Hours: Monday - Thursday 9:00 a m - 6:00 p m , Friday 9:00 a m - 5:00 p m

Mustang on Demand

When the buses stop running, use the Mustang on Demand App (with a valid UWO Student ID) to arrange FREE pickups and dropoffs on a limited route around campus and the downtown area. Service runs from 12:00 a.m. - 3:00 a.m. every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night.

Food Support Services

Food Support Services is an on-campus food bank dedicated to increasing food stability while reducing food insecurity.

Location: UCC, Room 40F

Hours: Monday - Friday 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Wednesday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p m

Enviro USC

A student service that seeks to promote environmental sustainability at Western Their mission is to make Western a more environmentally sustainable campus by leading events and initiatives to enhance student awareness of environmental issues on campus, providing volunteering opportunities, and creating a network for students to address their environmental concerns on-campus and in the community.

Email: envirowestern@westernusc ca

Ethnocultural Support Services

ESS exists to embrace and bring awareness to a multitude of diverse racial, Indigenous, and religious issues and groups on campus. The ESS team advocates for diverse ethnocultural communities by creating programs with the purpose of educating students on cultural and religious issues.

Email: ethnocultural@westernusc ca

Indigenous Support Services

A comprehensive list of resources is available at www.indigenous.uwo.ca/students, but there are two specific locations you can go for assistance: Room 2100 in the Western Student Services Building for the Indigenous Student Centre and the Wampum Learning Lodge (1137 Western Rd, Suite 1200, London, ON N6G 1G7).

Theatre Western

Western’s foremost theatre provider, Theatre Western is a vibrant and passionate community dedicated to the captivating world of the performing arts. Check out their Instagram (@theatrewestern) to stay up-to-date with auditions and tickets for the annual Purple Shorts play festival, Fall Play, Project Sparkles Queer Cabaret, and more!

Bookstore/Purple Store

Though it’s not always the only place to get your textbooks and course texts, the Bookstore has been providing for the academic needs of Western students since 1925. Whether you need a book, pens, a water bottle, or some fresh Western gear, this is the place to be. Expect lines during the first two weeks of the semester—it can get busy!

Location: Basement of the UCC

Financial

Assistance

The Bursary, Work Study & Need Based Award programs are all based on financial need, and are all applied for via the Financial Assistance Profile Application. The Fall/Winter 2025-26 application will be available through the Student Center by early September. Once logged into your Student Center, click Student Financials > Financial Aid and Funding > Apply for Financial Assistance > Click here to Apply for Financial Assistance to access the application.

Special Constables

Special Constables provide UWO a safe campus! They have similar authority to the London police officers in order to ensure campus remains a safe place for everyone. Calling 911 on campus will result in Special Constables responding, in most situations.

Email: wscs@uwo.ca

In case of emergency call 911

In case of non-emergency call 519-661-3300, Ext. 83300

Emergency Phones

There are numerous emergency phones located throughout campus, see the map at the beginning of this issue to view the locations. The phones connect to the Special Constables who will provide you with assistance

Alert Western

Alert Western is a mass notification system which is able to connect to your phone and UWO email. Alert Western delivers news and directions in times of immediate danger such as campus safety and dire weather concerns. Download the OnSolve app for immediate notifications.

Women’s Self Defence Training

The Special Constables’ office is able to provide participants with basic knowledge in order to better their safety! “Participants will learn practical defensive techniques that require no special skills.” The course is free, however, you must deposit $20 for a registration package, which will be returned upon completion of the program. Email rad@uwo.ca for more information.

Western Connect connects undergrad students to many different opportunities to further their personal and professional growth They offer a catalogue which enlists resources to better your co-curricular records through jobs, co-op, internships, field experience, etc Visit their website at connect.uwo.ca.

Recruit Western

Recruit Western features multiple listings for job, internship and volunteer opportunities. You can apply for all opportunities directly on the website! Visit recruit.uwo.ca!

EDI Office

The office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion is here to create a welcoming space at Western! They work to increase diversity & equity, combat racism, and engage the already diverse communities at western. Their core values are based on “Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, Excellence, Innovation and Citizenship,” but those few are not the limit! Located in the Western Student Services Building Department Representative

Whether you ' re having issues figuring out Intent to Register (ITR) or finding your way to class, your Department Representative (DR) is here to help Their job is to represent and listen to you, so if you have any concerns regarding your program then don’t hesitate to reach out to your DR! Check out the “Meet AHSC” section to see our current DRs or visit us in the AHSC Office!

Foot Patrol

Foot patrol provides safe walks on all Western campuses as well as certain off campus locations! Download the Western Foot Patrol App or call (519) 661-3650

I M P O R T A N T D A T E S I M P O R T A N T D A T E S

S e pt e m b e r

4th: Fall/Winter Term classes begin

12th: Last day to add or drop a Fall/Winter 24-week course (1 0 credit) or a Fall 12-week course (0 5 credit) Courses dropped by this date will not appear on a transcript; no fee penalty Courses dropped after this date will appear on a transcript with a grade of ‘WDN’ (withdrawn, without academic penalty)

30th: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (non-instructional day)

October

11th - 13th: Thanksgiving Weekend

November

3rd - 9th: Fall Reading Week

D e c e m b e r

5th: Classes resume

J a nua ry

13th: Last day to add or drop a Winter 12-week course (0 5 credit) Courses dropped by this date will not appear on a transcript Courses dropped after this date will appear on a transcript with a grade of ‘WDN’ (withdrawn, without academic penalty)

30th: Last day to withdraw from a Fall/Winter 24week course (1 0 credit) resulting in a grade of ‘WDN’ (withdrawn, without academic penalty) Course withdrawals after this date will appear on a transcript with a grade of ‘F’

31st: Deadline to apply for relief against a final grade in a Fall 12-week course (0 5 credit)

1st: Last day to withdraw from a Fall 12week course (0 5 credit) resulting in a grade of WDN (withdrawn without academic penalty) Course withdrawals after this date will appear on a transcript with a grade of ‘F’ 9th: Fall/Winter classes end

10th: Study Day

11th - 22nd: Mid-year examination period

Feb r ua ry

14th - 22nd: Spring Reading Week

16th: Family Day

A p r i l

3rd: Good Friday

5th: Easter Sunday

9th: Fall/Winter classes end 10th - 11th: Study Days

12th - 30th: Final examination period

Ma r c h

30th: Last day to withdraw from a Winter 12-week course (0.5 credit) resulting in a grade of ‘WDN’ (withdrawn, without academic penalty) Course withdrawals after this date will appear on a transcript with a grade of ‘F’

Go out once in a while, talk to your friends late at night, get fast food, have fun! Studying is important, but so is living

Stay on top of readings

Eat full meals + take vitamins!!

Go to as many O-Week events as possible and talk to as many people as you can, finding your people will help you get through first year!

Eat and sleep properly!

Put yourself out there! There are so many fun things to do around campus and London, and so many people to meet!

Go to class!

Bring LOTS of cold medicine!!!!!

Do not procrastinate! Start your assignments early, even if it’s just working on them for 15 minutes before bed

Take advantage of dining halls!

Soak it all in Be open to new people, new experiences, and even the awkward moments because they make the best memories Have fun, don’t stress too much, and enjoy every second because your first year only happens once

Stay on top of your course readings!!!

go to class!!!!

Take notes during lectures!

Get involved in extracurriculars!!

This is one of the best ways to make friends

Don’t procrastinate assignments and other tasks, they’ll pile up on you fast!

Push through the fear, even if you meet your best friend on your first day never stop pursuing new connections.

University is a community effort, never stop searching for your community.

Try new things and put yourself out there! First year is filled with new experiences and memories, so don’t be afraid to branch out of your comfort zone!

Find a good work–life balance! Work hard, but have fun!

Surround yourself with positive people who will support you and help you get through the year

Take time to find yourself, it’s easy to get caught up in finding friends and focusing on school It’s okay to take some me time, it’ll make all the rest easier when the time comes for it!

Go to office hours when you don’t understand something

Plan things backwards

Know what resources are available on campus! (If you don’t feel free to ask any of your sophs:))

Make sure you get enough sleep and take time to take care of yourself, your health matters more than any deadline It’s okay to rest, ask for help, and find a balance that works for you.

Go to your floor meetings

Get rest, take breaks!

Analyze your study habits—what once worked in high school may not work, now Additionally, engage with your professors, attend office hours, and involve yourself in campus community to ensure support for further years!

Google calendar for scheduling and notion for to-do lists!!!

GO TO CLASS PLEASE!

Join clubs! Meet people! The friends you make during first year are going to get you through a lot of the hard stuff. Also make sure you remember to eat vegetables (:

Participate as much as possible! It’s a great way to meet new people outside of classes!

If you live on res and have dietary restrictions, but find you aren’t getting enough nutritional food talk to the in house nutritionist! They will help make beneficial changes to the dining hall, they just need people to tell them!!!

Redbull and liquid IV

Meeting Game

It’s time for you to get to know everyone around you! For the following game, go around asking others the following questions If they meet the criteria for the prompt ask them to sign their name! AHSC 2025/26

Find someone…

From out of province

From London, ON

From a different country ____________________________

Doing a Double major or minor with a non-arts faculty

Who speaks more than 3 languages

Who took a gap year________________________________

Who has a unique pet

Who writes poetry

Who enjoys gardening ______________________________

Who is a collector _______________________________

Who was born in May ____________________________

Who was born in January

Who enjoys waking up early ________________________

Who is a night owl _______________________________

Who can play a musical instrument

Who has not visited Western’s Campus before ___________

Who went on vacation this summer___________________

Who went to a wedding this summer

Who drinks tea daily _____________________________

Who is incredibly excited for O-Week _________________

Who has a Lego collection

Who plays on a sports team ________________________

Born in the same month as you ______________________