Your Adventure Begins: Orientation at St. Mikes Editorial
Lights, Camera, Action
Lucia Chen &
Sariha Dewan
2024 SMC ORIENTATION
COORDINATORS
Broadcasting live from SMC TV, we are your 2024 Orientation Coordinators! We are so excited to welcome you to our amazing community!
Over the next few days, get ready to explore our beautiful campus, meet new friends, and start creating memories that will last a lifetime. We’ve got a jam-packed schedule of fun events inspired by your
favorite TV shows, designed to introduce you to academic resources, campus facilities, and student organizations. There’s something for everyone from campus tours and info sessions to concerts, dances, and friendly competitions!
Our awesome orientation staff is here to help you every step of the way. Got questions? Need advice? Just want to chat? We’re here for you! We want to make sure you feel right at home as you start this exciting new chapter.
Remember, university life is more than just hitting the books. It’s about personal growth,
making new friends, and discovering your passions. Dive into the opportunities we’ve lined up for you, get involved in campus activities, and don’t be afraid to try something new. This is your time to learn, shine, and have a blast!
We can’t wait to see all the amazing things you’ll do here. Welcome to the St. Mikes family! Tune in to SMC TV this season and let’s bleed blue together!
Embark on Your SMC Journey with The
Mike
Your Journey Starts Here: Get Involved with The Mike
Darian Trabold & Sun Sur
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & CHIEF RETURNING OFFICER
“Deep in the heart of the St. Mikes jungle you can hear the students rumble, Hooo ha, hoo ha, hoo ha, hoo ha” As you emerge into the busy and energetic realm of orientation, your official post-secondary journey begins! In most cases, you will be navigating all the clubs and extracurricular options for your first year, and finding clubs to join is overwhelming. One apprehensions is, “ What if I am not good enough for this club?” or “Who would want a first-year like myself to be part of any club?” Many SMC clubs welcome first-year students to contribute as members. At The Mike we welcome you to join our Masthead as a writer and run in our fall by-election! All students are welcome to participate in the Masthead as a contributor, where you submit written original articles to be published in the school’s newspaper. However, if you
are searching for officially registered position, consider running for the upcoming byelection! The only requirement is you are an SMC student or resident - it’s that simple!
The vacant positions are Copy Editors, Associate News Editors, Associate Features Editors and Associate Opinion Editors. Should you be interested in learning more about each role, head to our website – readthemike.com - or speak to any members of our Masthead!
The electoral process is quite simple and broadly consists of the following: application period, town hall, campaigning, voting period, electoral result announcement, and accept/reject offer. The first stage of this election is the application period, where you submit our application, which opens September 9th. Then, you will attend the town hall and explain to voters why you think you are the best candidate for the position you are running for. After the town hall, you can promote your campaign on social media, print out posters, and so much more- let your
THE MIKE
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Darian Trabold editorinchief@readthemike.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Rosie McDonald managingeditor@readthemike.com
BUSINESS MANAGER
Jenna Brown business@readthemike.com
SENIOR COPY EDITOR
Elise Caroline Cressatti srcopyeditor@readthemike.com
EDITOR-AT-LARGE
Sara Moretto editoratlarge@readthemike.com
DESIGN MANAGER Diana Radenko
DELIVERY MANAGER
Dimitrios Gkiokmema
NEWS EDITOR
Ethan Chan news@readthemike.com
OPINION EDITOR Carina Mercado opinion@readthemike.com
FEATURES EDITOR
Lauren Sarney features@readthemike.com
ARTS EDITOR
Angelina Fernandez arts@readthemike.com
creativity shine! (Note: please consult with CRO for any campaigning) Soon, the voting period will arrive, and you can cast your ballots onto the online voting platform called SimplyVoting. After all your hard work, the CRO will provide you with your candidacy status, and if elected, you can either accept/decline your offer. When you accept your offer, your status will be reviewed by the current Masthead, who will officially welcome you to The Mike.
If you would like to learn more about the workload or the vibes of our Masthead, please do not hesitate to contact our Editor-in-Chief, Darian Trabold, at editorinchief@readthemike. com.
I hope to see you craft your creativity and brilliant words shine in our community!
Should you have any electoral questions please contact the CRO (cro.themike@ gmail.com).
SPORTS EDITOR Lucas Carpignano sports@readthemike.com
LIFESTYLE EDITOR
Stefanie Menezes lifestyle@readthemike.com
ASSOCIATE ARTS EDITOR Adela Cucu
ASSOCIATE SPORTS EDITOR Arrianna Toolsie
ASSOCIATE LIFESTYLE EDITOR Karen Maktabi
PHOTO EDITORS
Aidan Joel Fung
Emily Tung
ILLUSTRATION EDITORS
Mattea Shuen
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGERS
Megan Panicker
Miranda Leong
COPY EDITORS
Serena Williams
SENIOR STAFF WRITERS
Joseph Pontisso
Maryam Riaz
VACANT ROLES
Copy Editors (multiple)
Associate News Editor (2)
Associate Features Editor
Associate Logos Editor
Section Editor
Ethan Chan news@readthemike.com
SMC’s September Lineup: From Clubs Fair to Michaelmas
Do you remember? What’s goin’ on in September?
Vaishu Koduri
VICE PRESIDENT, SMCSU
Back to school season is upon us, and as usual, St. Mike’s has got you covered with several events and opportunities to join our community! Whether you’re new to SMC, or a seasoned student, we’ve got something for you.
To start off, the best way to get involved in campus is through clubs, so head to SMCSU’s clubs fair on September 6th from 2-5pm at Elmsley Place to find where you best fit! Several SMC clubs will be in attendance along with free ice cream for participants.
But the fun doesn’t stop there, later that evening will be SMC’s very first all ages Pub Night of the year happening at Duke of York as a collab between SMCSU and SMRC! Meet us at Duke of York at 8:00pm (and don’t forget your ID) for
a night of singing, dancing and pub fare! Pub Nights are a great way to meet new friends and reconnect with those you met at Orientation. There will be plenty of Student Leaders there to help you make some connections.
For all our sports fans, don’t you fret! We’ve got plenty of athletics programming this September as well. On September 18th, SMCSU will be taking students to a Toronto Football Club (TFC) game to cheer on our soccer stars! If that sounds like your thing, run, don’t walk, to the @usmcsu Instagram page to purchase your tickets at an extremely discounted rate! Intramurals will also be kickstarting in September so check out our VP Athletics’ piece (add page) to learn more about how you can get involved in SMC sports.
Now what if you’d like a lowkey way to learn new skills and better prepare yourself for the
school year? SMC Campus Life is organizing their first “Grow Week” for the week of September 9th. It’ll be a week of fun, skill-building activities.
One of SMC’s biggest events, Michaelmas, will be happening on September 26th, hosted by SMCSU’s VP Spiritual Life and Campus Ministry. This event will be from 1-4pm, followed by a Family Dinner Night from 4:30-8:30pm.
But the fun doesn’t end there, you can check out the student life calendar on the stmikes.utoronto.ca website to find several more events occurring this September, including a mobile petting zoo arriving at SMC on the 12th, several wellness studio classes to choose from, and an acrylic paint night on the 24th!
For our commuter students, the commuter coordinators are making a come-back with SMCheese, their grilled cheese event, and a Nintendo switch
tournament, with dates TBD. Check out their Instagram @ smccommuter for more information.
Last, but certainly not least, be sure to check out Pair-ADice’s weekly board game café, happening every Friday which you can learn more about on their Instagram @pairadicebc!
But if events are not your thing, and you’re just looking for a place to chill and hang out, head to the COOP to rest, relax, and hang out with friends. While you’re there, pop your head into the SMCSU office to grab some free coffee, meet new friends, and access our pool and table tennis equipment! SMCSU, The Mike, and the Commuter Coordinators will start offering office hours in September, which is a great way to learn more about the events happening this year! All in all, SMC has a jampacked September waiting for you. We hope to see you there!
Section Editor Lauren Sarney features@readthemike.com
Welcome to SMC Residence from Don Arib
Settling In: What to Expect During Your First Days in Residence
Arib Hassam RESIDENCE DON
It is with great excitement and heartfelt warmth that I welcome you to St. Michael’s College Residence! My name is Arib, I am the Don of More House, and it is my privilege to greet you at the threshold of this new adventure. Whether you’re stepping into the world of university for the first time or continuing your academic journey, know that SMC residence will be your home away from home—a place filled with opportunities, challenges, and countless memorable moments.
The residences at SMC are a vibrant and tight-knit community where everyone plays a part in creating a supportive and inclusive environment. The
essence of St. Mike’s is found in the friendships you’ll make, the late-night study sessions, and the laughter shared over meals in the Canada Room. Our community is a mosaic of diverse backgrounds, interests, and perspectives, all contributing to a rich tapestry of campus life. We are a family, bound by our shared experiences and the unique traditions that make SMC truly special.
As you settle into your new surroundings, I encourage you to embrace the full spectrum of the university experience. There will undoubtedly be moments of sheer joy and exhilaration - those are the highs that make life exhilarating. Cherish these moments, celebrate your successes, and share your achievements with those around you. However,
it’s equally important to remember that your experience at UofT, especially during your first year, can have its share of challenges. Whether it’s academic pressures, homesickness, or just the adjustment to a new environment, these lows are a natural part of the journey. In those moments, lean on the support systems around you: your peers, the residence don team (including myself), and the many resources available at SMC and UofT. Stay strong and resilient, knowing that each challenge you face is a stepping stone towards personal growth and maturity.
One of the most valuable pieces of advice I can offer is to master the art of time management. Balancing academics, social activities, and personal responsibilities can be daunt-
ing, but it’s crucial for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling life. Don’t underestimate the impact of keeping up with everyday chores like doing your laundry, tidying up your room, and taking out the trash. These seemingly mundane tasks can significantly enhance your mental well-being and state of mind, creating a sense of order and calm in your living space. To make this easier, consider setting aside time each week (perhaps Sunday evenings) as your dedicated housekeeping time. Having this routine not only keeps your space clean but also provides a structured break from academic work, allowing you to reset and prepare for the week ahead.
Remember, SMC residence is a place where you can grow, learn, and discover more about
yourself. It’s absolutely okay to ask for help and to seek out resources when you need them! We have a wonderful team of residence life staff, academic advisors at the SMC registrar, and mental health professionals ready to support you in any way they can. Whether you need advice on managing coursework, navigating social dynamics, or
just need someone to talk to, we’re here for you. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your Don, whether it’s through a casual conversation or a more formal appointment. Your well-being and success are our top priorities.
As you embark on this exciting journey, take the time to explore all that SMC and UofT
have to offer. Get involved in clubs and activities, attend events, and make the most of the vibrant campus life. These experiences will enrich your time here and help you build lasting memories and friendships.
In closing, I want to once again welcome you to St. Mike’s. We are so thrilled to have you
St. Mike’s Clubs Highlight
Lucia Chen
VICE PRESIDENT – STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS, SMCSU (studentorg.smcsu@gmail.com)
For me, the transition from high school to U of T was a huge change, and I remember feeling disconnected from the university community in my first year. As time passed, I started getting outside my comfort zone and jumping at the various opportunities to get involved at St. Mike’s. The first step I took was becoming an Orientation Leader. From there, I met many members of the St. Mike’s community and joined various clubs, meeting many people whom I now consider my closest friends. There are many chances to get to know the student community at the University of St. Michael’s College (USMC). From various clubs, student groups, and course unions, St. Mike’s has it all! Check out some of the many opportunities to become more integrated into the St. Mike’s community, meet peers from all backgrounds and disciples, and gain new experiences.
Pride SMC: Pride SMC is allied with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and focuses on diversity, inclusion, and representation. Not only do they build a community for students to feel welcomed, but they are also involved in advocacy, workshops, and community service. They host various events from a Drag Brunch to Queer Cafe, and more. You can follow them on Instagram @pridesmc.
St. Michael’s Troubadours: The SMC Troubadours (or Troubs) are a student-run drama society that strives to foster a community that creates space for students to showcase and develop their artistic capabilities. Every season, they put on many
plays, musicals, and other theatre pieces. Some of their past shows include Millennium Approaches, Into the Woods, and Cabaret. To find out how to join follow them on Instagram @smc_troubadours.
Pair-a-Dice: Pair-a-Dice is a board game club with weekly meetings to create a comfortable environment for people to drop in, play games, and make friends. They have a massive collection of over 50 board games and run roleplaying games like Dungeons and Dragons. They’ve hosted themed events like Night of Mystery, as well as collaborative events like Game of Pride and Family Games Night. To find out when they’re playing, follow @ pairadicebgc on Instagram.
St. Mike’s Wellness Council: The St. Mike’s Wellness Council is a student initiative dedicated to enhancing health and wellness at USMC to foster a campus culture that emphasizes mental and physical well-being. They host many events including Family Games Night, Bracelet Making, and Make-Your-Own Smoothies. To find out more, follow @ usmcwellness on Instagram.
SMC Yearbook: SMC’s Yearbook Committee publishes the annual St. Mike’s yearbook, Windrose. They work behind the scenes to produce the yearbook, transforming students’ experiences into a book filled with memories. At the end of each year, they host a launch party where students can get their yearbooks, reflect, and—most importantly—enjoy the yearbook with friends. For more updates and information on how you can preorder your own copy of the 2024-25 yearbook, check out The Mike website (readthemike.com) and @ lifeatstmikes on Instagram.
SAGA: SAGA is the USMC branch of the PEARS (Prevention, Empowerment, Advocacy and Support for Survivors) Project, which provides sup-
join us and look forward to supporting you every step of the way. Here’s to a fantastic year filled with learning, growth, and unforgettable experiences. Welcome home!
port and resources to survivors of sexual violence across U of T. They are committed to building community among survivors, supporting all students, and dismantling rape culture. They host various events from tabling, Planned Parenthood workshops and Care Package building events. To learn more, check out @saga.pears on Instagram.
Italian Student Association: The Italian Student Association (ISA) is committed to preserving and promoting Italian culture and language at U of T. They have a wide array of events aimed at providing community members with an authentic Italian experience, including Wine Night and Gnocchi Night. To find out about their events, follow @isa.uoft on Instagram.
Arab Student Association: The Arab Student Association (ASA) is dedicated to promoting Arab culture, heritage, and identity to provide a home away from home for Arab students and anyone interested in exploring the rich traditions, languages, and histories of the Arab world. They host many events like charity fundraisers, Trivia Night, and collaborative celebrations for Iftar. To learn more, follow @asa.utsg on Instagram.
Celtic Studies Course Union: The Celtic Studies
Course Union (CSCU) serves to represent the interests of students enrolled in the Celtic Studies program, but all their events are open to everyone. They run many different events annually, which will often include one pub night per semester and an annual Masquerade Ball with MSUS and BMSSA. Other events include Game Nights, Trivia Nights, and Movie Nights, dance lessons, and baking lessons. Follow @celticstudiesuoft on Instagram to learn more.
Book and Media Studies Student Association: The Book and Media Studies Student Association (BMSSA) represents students in the BMS program and students who have taken classes from the program. They hold academic and professional development events and advocate for new courses and advancements in the programs, as well as social opportunities to connect students. Events they’ve hosted in the past include Career Events, Boards and Boba, Masquerade Ball, and Painting Nights. Follow @bmssa_uoft on Instagram to learn more.
Medieval Studies Undergraduate Society: Medieval Studies Undergraduate Society (MSUS) is a group for those interested in mediaeval studies or taking any mediaeval courses.
Photo/Graphic Credit: Emma Oliver (Flickr - Clubs Fair 2023)
Opinion
The Third Space: Alive & Well
Rosie McDonald
MANAGING EDITOR
The third space — not school, not your dorm or apartment, but a place to be (as in, a place to exist). While some might say the third place is going extinct, with people using the internet as an escape in their free (and not free) time, Toronto has no shortage of perfect third spaces for hungry minds and hearts to find connection or solitude. Take it from me: someone fresh out student residence who made it a mission to find places other than my secluded apartment to start building myself as a student and adult living in the city of Toronto.
37
Located just a couple blocks south of campus, Carbonic Coffee is a Baldwin Street staple. Their coffee is classic
and tasty, and they have the perfect set-up for independent reading time or chats with close friends and new faces. Plus, they promote and host independent artists of all trades (I’ve seen both a pottery sale and a house music show within the walls of Carbonic).
The Art Gallery of Ontario
317 DUNDAS STREET WEST @AGOTORONTO
One might not consider visiting an art gallery a third space for a multitude of reasons, but our Art Gallery of Ontario challenges all of them. The Art Gallery of Ontario is free for those under the age of 25, includes a restaurant, a shop, an espresso bar, and many a couch for sitting, chatting, reading, contemplating, and/or intense analyzing. Not to mention, the Art Gallery Ontario houses an enormous collection of art that is worth checking out, to say the least.
194 QUEEN STREET WEST
@THEREXTORONTO
If you’re looking for a more energetic environment after sitting in class all day, think about getting tickets to see a show at The Rex Hotel Jazz and Blues Bar. The Rex welcomes all ages to enjoy their live shows and dinner, plus drinks for those who are 19+. If you’re really into the show, there is seating up front close to the stage, but if you’re looking more to spend quality time with people in a fun environment, seating at the back is perfect for chatting. The University of Toronto Student Jazz Ensembles take the stage at The Rex quite often, so don’t miss it.
Exile Vintage
60 KENSINGTON AVENUE @EXILEVINTAGE
Exile Vintage is in the heart of Kensington market. In the
Section Editor Carina Mercado opinion@readthemike.com
warmer months, the front of the shop opens on to the street, welcoming passers-by with warm lighting, oldies blaring, and wracks upon wracks of vintage clothing. If you’re looking to shop or play dress up with friends, this is a great stop with some great finds. Occasionally, the “bargain basement” opens to customers looking for some steals.
Your Favourite Toronto Park
Last but not least, Toronto has a variety of parks that are perfect for picnics, summer activities, listening to music, hanging out with friends or alone, and people watching. My personal favourite is Grange Park, but between Queen’s Park, Trinity Bellwoods, Christie Pits, and the like, you’re not at a loss for options relatively close to campus.
YES!
Studying in a post-lockdown school environment, technology has become a more crucial tool in university. One of the tools, like Zoom and Microsoft Teams, has been almost permanently integrated in our academic journey. While other guides list the best study spots on campus, I found that most of the locations listed are either silent spaces or too loud for calls. Luckily, St. Michael’s has multiple spaces and lounges that accommodate all students from those who need complete, pin-drop silence for anything from exams to mic-on-for-thewhole-call group meetings.
Kelly Cafe: Kelly Cafe is the spot for St. Michael’s College students grab a coffee or tea, sit to eat lunch, and attend synchronous classes. It is a lively place, with alluring art, usually full ofstudents. Most surfaces have outlets and cushioned seating. Plus, the Library has books for sale at the door!
Fr. Madden Hall: Located in Carr Hall, Fr. Madden Hall has one table that can be used for online meetings. When it is not occupied for book sales or public lectures, it serves as another hallway to Carr Hall classrooms. If you don’t mind being heard by passers-by, Fr. Madden Hall is a quick stop to set up camp.
Dodig Family Student
Common (The Coop): The Coop is located in Brennan Hall alongside the SMCSU and The Mike Offices. It’s a large, bright space, with various seating, whiteboards, microwaves, and even table tennis for study breaks. I prefer the Coop over all other locations as it is large enough that you’re not disturbing other people’s studying while being a populated place.
YES IF...
Canada Room... If your class does not require cameras to be on. Taking Zoom calls in the Canada Room lets students eat while viewing lectures. Being a student space with a lot of seating, Zoom conversations
might be interrupted by people walking behind you, sounds of dishes clanking, and food being seen by your Zoom audience. Quad Garden Space... If you can tolerate the Canadian weather. While setting down a blanket next to Michael the Archangel and having the beautiful grass and sunlight as your zoom blanket sounds euphoric, that cannot be said for the winter semester. The inches of snow and brutal wind chill may leave you too frozen to answer your professors’ questions. I definitely recommend the Quad for the start of the Fall semester, or if you have multiple winter coats.
The Rex Hotel Jazz and Blues Bar
Kelly Library Study Group Room... If you’ve already booked them ahead of time. Arguably the most secluded space available for Zoom meetings, these rooms let you have online presentations, meetings, classes, appointments with no outside auditory distractions. Most study rooms at Kelly have whiteboards, TVs, and outlets. The downside is that study rooms must be booked in advance and cannot accommodate impromptu calls.
NO!
Kelly Library Second Floor and Up: All floors above the ground floor in Kelly are reserved for silence to near-silence. Kelly Library is perfect
Arts
for exam cram sessions or re-watching lecturerecordings. While the library spaces provide you all the amenities that come with study spaces, it is not fit for zoom calls. Other students enter the library specifically for silence that is not available in public.
Odette Hall: Odette Hall houses the offices of SMC faculty, connected to St. Basil’s Church. While the hall has sitting space and ample lighting, loud conversation can disrupt office work or religious programming.
SMC Art Club Highlight
Angelina Fernandez arts@readthemike.com
Learn more about what the SMC Troubadours, SMC Funnies, and Photography clubs have to offer!
Christina Shnaider
Are you interested in getting more involved at St. Mike’s, while unleashing your creativity and showcasing your artistic talent? Well, you’re in luck! St. Mike’s has a variety of art clubs, both recently founded and well established, ranging from theatre to graphic design. Here is an overview of how to get involved in the arts at St. Mike’s!
St. Michael’s College Troubadours (SMCT) or “The Troubs”: The Troubs are one of six student run drama societies at UofT, founded over 10 years ago. Every year, SMCT produces several shows such as plays, musicals, and original student written work deter-
mined through a pitch selection process done by members of the SMCT executive team beginning in early June. This year, SMCT will be producing five shows (to be announced) and one DramaFest submission to the Hart House Theatre Drama Festival happening in February. There are many ways to get involved in the SMCT season, either as an actor or crew member in one of their shows, or as a member of the club’s executive team. Follow @smc_ troubadours on Instagram to keep track of when these involvement opportunities are announced. Rumor has it that auditions, crew hiring, and executive assistant hiring will take place all throughout September! All acting and production experience are welcome.
SMC Funnies is a sketch comedy group founded this year that plans to run sketch comedy workshops and produce a sketch comedy show each semester centered around a common theme. The name of the club might sound familiar to some, since the SMC Funnies used to be one of the shows produced by the Troubs each year. Like the Troubs, there are many ways to get involved in the Funnies either as a student writer, actor, crew member, or as an executive member. Whether or not you’re new to sketch comedy, all acting and production experience are welcomed. Follow @smcfunnies on Instagram to keep track of when these involvement opportunities are announced!
knowledge of the beauty within Toronto, the SMC Photography club is here. This club was founded just this year with the goal to help students showcase their expression through photography and digital media. Don’t wait, get your cameras and Adobe Photoshop to join all of their planned fun for this year.
On top of these art clubs, SMCSU also has many dropin art events planned for this upcoming school year, such as themed paint nights, pottery class, jewelry making, workshops for beginners, and Kelly’s Korner; the bi-annual talent show. If you would like to start a new art club or initiative on campus, email art.smcsu@ gmail.com your suggestions! SMCSU VP
The SMC Funnies: The
The Who, What, Where with Toronto
Concerts: A Guide for Orientees
Epic Performances and Show
Stopping Moments You Won’t Want to Miss
SMC Photography Club: With an eye for aesthetics and
Cigarettes After Sex
DATE: SEPTEMBER 1, 2024
As the new academic year kicks off, there’s no better way to take in the Toronto area than by immersing yourself in Toronto’s vibrant music scene. From indie to a BRAT summer, the city has something for music lovers everywhere! Here are some upcoming concerts you won’t want to miss:
Why Go: For those who adore slow songs and are suckers for dream-like vibes, Cigarettes After Sex is definitely for you! With the band’s soothing vocals and heartfelt lyrics, you’re guaranteed a good time – plus tickets were less than 60 dollars since writing this article! Performing at the iconic Scotiabank Arena, it’s a must for everyone to go to the arena at least once. Song
Image caption & credit
ARTS EDITOR
Caroline Switkowski
ARTS EDITOR
recommendations include: “Apocalypse” and “Tejano Blue”. Beabadoobee
DATE: SEPTEMBER 15, 2024
Why Go: Another slow vibe artist, this time with an intimate venue very close to the Exhibition Place! This Filipinoborn singer will make your heart sing with her cute songs and stage presence – but hey, that’s just “the way things go”! With her soothing voice and soulful melodies, this show offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of university life. Song Recommendations include: “Glue Song” and “Take a Bite”.
Charli XCX & Troye Sivan
DATE: SEPTEMBER 18, 2024
Why Go: With a complete 180 in terms of music style, Charli XCX and Troye Sivan are both here to wake you up during
Sports
your first month in university! Your BRAT summer may have ended, but Charli isn’t letting that happen with her wild tour. Personally, this is a must-go as a long-time listener of Troye Sivan, and lover of Charli’s song “Girl, so confusing”. Both strong and chaotic personalities are contenders for the best September concert, but hopefully, I can provide an update next Issue.Song Recommendations: “360” by Charli XCX and “One Of Your Girls” by Troye Sivan.
Sabrina Carpenter
DATE: SEPTEMBER 25, 2024
Why Go: If heartbreak and heavy pop are more your style, then Sabrina Carpenter is definitely your morning “Espresso”! This singer-actress is performing at Scotiabank Bank and has resale tickets waiting for you. Song Recommendations: “Honeymoon Fades” and “because I liked a boy”.
As a seasoned concertgoer
– My setlist.fm account is pretty sweet – I cannot send you off without a few tips! With that:
1) Stay Safe: Make sure to travel in groups and stay aware of your surroundings, especially when attending late-night shows.
2) Plan Your Transport: Toronto’s public transit is not always reliable. Consider ride-sharing and knowing alternative routes to avoid the post-concert rush.
3) Wear ear plugs: Hearing damage is not a joke! Ensure you bring a pair of soft ear plugs or disconnected Bluetooth earbuds so you can enjoy the concert without a headache.
4) Enjoy the Experience: Most importantly, have fun! Concerts are a fantastic way to take a break from your studies, meet new people, and create lasting memories.
Intramurals 101
All you need to know about UofT’s Intramurals
Sariha Dewan
VP ATHLETICS, SMCSU
Welcome to St. Mikes! As you settle into your new life on campus, you’ll find there are countless ways to get involved and make the most of your university experience. One fantastic option is participating in intramural sports. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just looking for some fun and exercise, intramurals offer something for everyone. Here’s everything you need to know about intramurals and how to get involved.
WHAT ARE INTRAMURALS?
Intramural sports are organized recreational activities within the university, designed to foster friendly competition and physical fitness among students. Unlike varsity or tri-campus sports, which may require a higher level of commitment and skill, intramurals are open to all skill levels and focus on fun and inclusion. They offer a wide variety of sports and activities, ranging from traditional team sports like soccer, basketball,
and volleyball, to more unique games like ultimate frisbee, dodgeball, and even esports.
BENEFITS OF PARTICIPATING
Participating in intramural sports is a fantastic way to stay active and healthy while having a blast. Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining good health, and intramurals provide a fun and engaging way to get moving. Not only does participating help you stay fit, but it also boosts your mood and reduces stress by releasing those feelgood endorphins. In addition to this, intramurals are a perfect opportunity to meet new people and make friends from different backgrounds, creating a vibrant and supportive community. You’ll also have the chance to improve your athletic skills, teamwork, and leadership abilities in a friendly and encouraging environment. Above all, intramurals are all about having fun and taking a well-deserved break from academic pressures, giving you the chance to unwind and enjoy yourself.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
1
Explore Your Options
Start by checking out the intramural sports offerings at St. Mikes. Visit the university’s intramural sports website or check them out on Instagram (@uoftintramurals). There are various leagues and divisions, so you can choose what fits your interests, skill level, and schedule. All sports are offered in women’s, men’s, and mixed leagues with most sports offering a choice of skill level to play at as well. Sports in which multiple divisions are offered will have division 1 as the highest level of play and the lower divisions provide opportunities for participants with little to no experience in the sport.
2
Sign Up
Once you’ve decided which sports or activities you’d like to join, it’s time to sign up. This process involves registering online through a form. More information will be provided closer to fall on SMCSU Athletics Instagram page (@ smcsuathletics).
Whether you’re into pop, rock, or indie, Toronto’s concert scene has something for everyone. So grab your tickets and friends and get ready to enjoy some of the best live music the city has to offer this fall!
Section Editor Lucas Carpignano sports@readthemike.com
3
Show Up and Play
Once everything is set, it’s game time! Make sure to attend your games, give your best effort, and — most importantly, have a good time. Remember that the primary goal of intramurals is to enjoy yourself and foster a positive, inclusive atmosphere.
Intramural sports are a fantastic way to enrich your university experience. They offer a perfect blend of physical activity, social interaction, and fun. So, lace up your sneakers, grab an SMC jersey, and get ready to make some amazing memories on the field, court, or wherever your intramural adventures take you. Welcome to St. Mikes and enjoy your intramural experience!
Lifestyle
Section Editor Stefanie Menezes lifestyle@readthemike.com
Master Your Commute: Balancing
Productivity and Relaxation
Making Every Minute Count on Your Way to Campus
Dimitrios Gkiokmema
DELIVERY MANAGER
With many university students being commuters, they often ask themselves what to do during their commute to pass the time and help with their academics. For some, commuting means spending over an hour and a half just to get to campus, so knowing how to effectively use this time is a can be benefical. However, the term ‘effectively’ means different things for everyone. Some people prefer to do some studying on their commute, others prefer to use the time to relax, or even a mix of both! Commuting will play a huge part in your day, so why not make the best of it. For those who want to use the time to be productive, there are numerous things you could do to help your academics! Perhaps the most important of these is planning your day or week. Planning your day’s objectives and goals can be as simple as writing a list of tasks you want to do. Having a plan will keep you focused and increase your productivity as it clearly states everything that must be accomplished! Another great way to pass time and help your academics on your commute is going over emails.
They host many events during the year, including Pub Night, Christmas Tea and Raffle, Movie Night and Masquerade Ball. Follow @medievaltoronto on Instagram to learn more.
New Clubs: After the summer club recognition application period, many new clubs applied for recognition from the University of St. Michael’s Student Union (SMCSU) so be on the lookout for any new clubs that may interest you. All SMC students also have the chance to create a new club, along with requesting recognition and funding from SMCSU. To find out more follow @usmcsu on Instagram!
Other Student Groups: Moreover, there are many other opportunities involving the
As the year progresses, you will find that you get multiple emails each day, so going through them is critical. Read each email carefully and keep track of any key dates or deadlines mentioned. Going through your emails often will keep them from piling up and will keep your inbox clear. Lastly, another other way to pass time and help your academics is by working on assignments and going over readings! Certain courses have tasks for you to do before the next class. These could be pre-class readings or quizzes. Completing these is important as they prepare you for your classes and doing them is a great way to set yourself up for success in your academics!
Given that commuting to and from school for some students happens early in the morning and late at night, sometimes it can be hard to be productive. Taking the time to relax on your commute helps restore your energy and improves your mental health, putting you in a better position to be productive later! One way to accomplish this is by listening to music or watching your favorite show or movie! Additionally, reading a book or listening to a podcast are also great ways to relax and pass time on your commute! It is important to find what you
student groups. These include the St. Michael’s Student Union (SMCSU), St. Mike’s Residence Council, Commuter Coordinators, Orientation, Mentorship, Campus Ministry, and The Mike. These groups have somewhat of a different system in terms of how students can get involved, which can include a hiring process or elections. However, that should not stop you! Many of the student leaders involved in these groups host office hours, which will be posted once the academic year begins. This is a great opportunity to get to know the members of the community and learn how to get involved.
Keep up to date with these groups via Instagram: @usmcsu, @stmikesresidencecouncil,
enjoy and try it on your next commute!
While it would be great if we could always be productive on our commutes, this is not a realistic expectation. A healthy mix of relaxation and productivity on your commute will pass the time and help your academics by increasing your energy and motivation towards working on assignments after commuting!
@smccommuter, @smc_ orientation, @smc.mentorship, @ustmikescampusministry, @ smc.themike.
Takeaways: This article only highlights some of the many clubs at St. Mikes. To discover them all, stop by the Clubs Fair in September! There will be even more clubs to check out, both from St. Mike’s and U of T at large. Most importantly, there will be free ice cream and slushies for those attending. All in all, though university can seem huge and scary, it becomes a lot less frightening when you’re not alone. So don’t hesitate — explore these opportunities now to build your community!
Yearbook of St. Michael’s College
Did you know that St. Michael’s College has its very own yearbook? The Windrose, SMC’s yearbook, is published annually with the support of The Mike Publications and the Office of the Dean of Students. Keep an eye out for information on how you can get your own copy of the yearbook for 2024-2025! If you have any questions or queries, please reach out to Diana Radenko, this year’s Senior Yearbook Editor, via email at: diana.radenko@mail.utoronto.ca.
Image credit: Dimitrios Gkiokmema