Arts & Science Welcome Guide 2022

University of Toronto Arts & Science St. George Campus Welcome Guide Welcome 2019/20 Guide 2022

THERE IS SO MUCH HERE FOR YOU.

In this guide you will find information about your next steps, as well as candid stories and advice from students who have been in your shoes. There is no single formula for success at university, but finding inspiration and learning from the experience of others is a great place to start.

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WELCOME!

Faculty of Arts & Science

You have completed an important chapter in your life and are about to start another.

Welcome to Arts & Science. The experience here is pretty special. You have access to all the resources of Canada’s number one university, the most diverse and flexible program options available and an incredible network to help you shape your education and your future. All the while, you will be studying on an awesome and inspiring campus, with a world-class city right at your door.

Opportunity has knocked, and you are uniquely positioned for success.

INSIDE

Welcome Guide 2022

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Your New Home

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University of Toronto

WHAT’S

Your campus is right at the heart of an amazing place to live and learn.

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My Academic Adventure

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5 Tips for Planning Your Studies

You will apply to a program at the end of first year, which means this year is an excellent opportunity to explore a range of interests.

Your education should take you where you want to go.

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What My College Means to Me

Your college community provides a small and supportive home within U of T.

12 14 A glimpse into the lives of four Arts & Science students.

You only need a snapshot to see what makes this city one of a kind.

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Thrive in First Year & Beyond

University may feel like a big adjustment. Rest assured, a wide range of support is available for you.

18 Things to Do

This checklist of key dates and deadlines will help you keep track of your next steps.

Faculty of Arts & Science

My Toronto

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A Day in My Life

Welcome Guide 2022

St. George Campus

“What I love most about this school is the campus itself. There are so many libraries, cafés and green spaces — I promise you it will become a defining part of your experience here at U of T.” Semhale, Double major in political science and criminology

YOUR NEW HOME

1. Study Haven

Hart House Library is a quiet, cozy place to study with beautiful window seats that are flooded with natural light.

2. Indoor Escape

It’s pouring outside but you’re craving some time in nature. Grab a coffee and relax at the Bamboo Garden in the Donnelly Centre.

3. Campus Life

Front campus is the centre of life on campus in the summer and the setting of a campus-wide snowball fight in winter!

4. Go Blues

Take a break from the books to cheer on your classmates and other world-class athletes at Varsity Stadium.

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University of Toronto

5. Room with a View

Your campus is right at the heart of an amazing place to live and learn. Here are a few iconic spaces and student favourites that will make your experience exceptional.

Graham Library has that quintessential library smell, fireplaces, couches and cubicles. Bonus: it overlooks the spectacular Munk School Garden.

6. Hub for Everything

There are many reasons to visit Sidney Smith Hall — for class, a study group, fundraising for your club or for information sessions that run throughout the year.

Start exploring: uoft.me/as-tour

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Faculty of Arts & Science

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Welcome Guide 2022 University of Toronto 6

Getting Started

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Plan for Success

The recommended course load for full-time, first-year students is five courses per term. Your first year will be comprised of courses related to your intended program(s), small classroom option(s) and electives. Contact your college registrar's office if you have any questions.

Course enrolment takes place in July and now is a good time to start researching the courses that will help provide a solid foundation for your studies.

Check out our New Student Guide for more information about course selection and enrolment: uoft.me/nsg.

TIPS FOR 1 PLANNING YOUR STUDIES

It’s important to branch out and try fun electives, and first year is the best time to do that. I started U of T in the life sciences admission category, but I took sociology as an elective in first year. I discovered that I really enjoyed it, so I switched my direction to social science.

Nicole, Double major in health studies and sociology

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I want to assure you that there is no expectation for you to have your programs all figured out coming into first year. A big part of first year is adjusting to the new environment, experiencing new fields of study and discovering your interests.

Ryan, Specialist in biological physics, minors in psychology and mathematics

FYI Breadth Requirements During your studies, you are required to meet a breadth requirement, which allows you to discover courses outside of your program. Breadth categories are:

WHAT IS AN ADMISSION CATEGORY?

When you applied to Arts & Science, you selected one of six admission categories based on the area of study you want to pursue. This means you have priority enrolment in courses in that admission category — but you are not limited to courses in that category. In first year, you have the flexibility to explore your interests and take courses across the arts and the sciences.

CCR: Creative & Cultural Representations TBB: Thought, Belief & Behaviour SII: Society & Its Institutions LTE: Living Things & Their Environment PMU: Physical & Mathematical Universes The New Student Guide provides more details about Breadth Requirements: uoft.me/nsg

WHAT IS A PROGRAM OF STUDY?

Natalia, Double major in English and criminology

There are many first-year courses designed to introduce students to topics they aren’t familiar with but may be interested in. I took Introduction to Computer Programming in my first year with no prior experience in coding.

Explore your options because you never know what you might discover.

Adams, Double major in international relations and political science

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Attend office hours with your professors and teaching assistants. You’ll receive academic help while getting to meet faculty and students.

Meeting people from your program is important for long-term success, study assistance and your overall experience.

Sofija, Specialist in computer science, minor in mathematics

WHAT’S IN A PROGRAM?

Courses in Arts & Science are worth 0.5 or 1.0 credits. To receive your degree you must complete 20 credits in a variety of subjects.

Each program is offered as one or several of the following types: Specialist: 10–14 credits Major: 6–8 credits Minor: 4 credits

In order to graduate, you will choose a minimum of one of the following combinations of programs: Specialist: Focus your learning in one concentrated area.

Double Major: Combine two areas of interest to develop a unique perspective.

One Major & Two Minors: Build a diverse academic record while studying many areas of interest.

View your program options: artsci.utoronto.ca/explore-programs

Faculty of Arts & Science

When choosing my major, I reached out to upper-year students and my registrar’s office for advice. Every single person told me: “Do what you love.” For me, that was reading and writing. I chose to do an English major instead of the program I was originally considering, and it was the best decision I’ve ever made. I get to go to school every day and read, which is what I love doing the most.

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You will get additional information and advice at the end of first year when it’s time to make your program selection.

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You will apply for a program of study at the end of your first year. This means you will take courses in first year that are required for the program(s) that you want to study in second year. If you are undecided, don’t worry. You will take a combination of courses that prepare you for multiple different programs.

Welcome Guide 2022

Student Experience

MY ACADEMIC ADVENTUR

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University of Toronto

Network Connections As an Arts & Science student, you’ll become part of an incredible network that will support your success while you are in university and beyond. Learn more at: artsci.utoronto.ca/career-building Backpack to Briefcase (b2B) The b2B program provides opportunities to network with alumni and faculty members who can offer career advice and encouragement. artsci.utoronto.ca/backpack-briefcase-b2b Arts & Science Internship Program (ASIP) Eligible students can combine 12 to 20 months of paid work experience with specialized professional development training. uoft.me/asip

REBEKAH

JONATHAN

Double major in history and Russian language and literature and minor in practical French.

Double major in African studies and history.

Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland.

One thing about me: I love playing volleyball, both on my college’s intramural team and during drop-in hours around campus.

Wish I had known: Getting involved in student unions, clubs and mentorship opportunities can speed up the process of finding community on campus.

I took a First-Year Foundations Ones Program that focused on language diversity in Toronto. We went to Greektown to explore semiotic language diversity and understand how language interacts with space. I was new to Toronto so it was a great opportunity for me to explore the city while also learning more about how language is used to convey meaning. Being in that first-year course was cool because we were able to work on projects in small groups of three. I also got to know my professor really well.

Hometown: Toronto, Ontario.

One thing about me: Once I finish my degree I want to travel abroad and teach English.

Wish I had known: Take advantage of office hours, the writing clinics, clubs, programs and events. The resources will help to shape your university experience.

I had an opportunity to travel to Rwanda on an International Course Module (ICM) for an African philosophy course. I wanted to better understand how Rwandans view life after genocide because their philosophy is rooted in forgiveness and coming together to move on. At one point, we had a chance to meet a Rwandan woman who is a member of a social assistance program that focuses on helping locals out of poverty. Through the ICM, I realized that I want to be as inclusive as possible in everything I do because our North American culture is quite individualistic. From the Rwandans, I saw the healing benefits of coming together as a community.

FYI

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FIRST-YEAR OPPORTUNITIES

With classes of 25 or fewer, these opportunities designed just for firstyear students will help you to get the most out of your academics. Find out more at: uoft.me/firstyearopps

FYF Seminars First-Year Foundations (FYF) Seminars, hosted by the departments, aren’t typical lectures. You will engage in indepth conversations with your peers and professor as you build critical reading, writing, research and communication skills. Enrol during July course selection.

FYF Ones First-Year Foundations (FYF) Ones, hosted by the colleges and the Munk School, are interactive courses that allow you to network with professors, meet other students and explore a range of compelling issues. Applications are required for some Ones Programs.

Specialist in environment and toxicology.

Double major in economics and peace, conflict and justice.

Hometown: Aurora, Ontario.

One thing about me: I’m on the U of T synchronized swimming team. It’s so much fun, and it’s nice to have that second home on campus that’s completely unrelated to school.

Wish I had known: It’s important to stay motivated by giving yourself breaks. Join a club, say hello to whoever is sitting next to you in class, find ways to engage with U of T outside of academics — it will make your experience a lot more worthwhile.

In my second year, I did a Research Opportunities Program course on microplastics with Professor Miriam Diamond. Following that, I worked with her as a research assistant studying fluorinated compounds in North American cosmetics.

Working with her was one of the most valuable experiences I’ve had at U of T. I feel confident that I can do something with my degree because I’ve had a lot of hands-on experience and made a huge number of connections.

Hometown: Mumbai, India.

One thing about me: My friends and I started a podcast called Different Boat, Same Storm to capture people’s unique experiences during the pandemic and kickstart conversations about empathy. It’s been truly rewarding because we’ve connected with so many people across the world.

Wish I had known: There’s more to university than just coursework and exams. What has really made my experience special is the people I’ve met and the opportunities I’ve had to engage outside of the classroom.

I’m currently a researcher with the Reach Alliance, a research and leadership initiative started at U of T’s Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy. My case study is focused on Dar Si Hmad, a venture that harvests fog in the Anti-Atlas Mountains in Morocco to alleviate water scarcity for some of the country’s most geographically isolated communities.

OUTSIDE-THE-CLASSROOM OPPORTUNITIES

Enrich your academics with these unique experiences.

CIE The Centre for International Experience (CIE) organizes study abroad opportunities at more than 160 universities in 40+ countries around the world.

ICM The International Course Modules (ICM) are an opportunity to incorporate an intensive international experience into an existing undergraduate course.

ROP The Research Opportunities Program (ROP) lets you earn course credit while working closely with a professor on a research project as early as the summer after first year.

Faculty of Arts & Science

ATHARV

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ANNA

FLCs (or flicks) First-Year Learning Communities (FLCs) are groups of first-year students studying the same core courses who meet bi-weekly for academic, developmental and social activities. FLCs are not for course credit. Register online in June.

Welcome Guide 2022

Student Q&A

Setareh —

Specialist in physiology, major in health and disease.

Hometown:

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University of Toronto

Toronto, Ontario.

WHAT MY COLLEGE MEANS TO ME Your college community provides a small and supportive home within U of T. It’s the place where you will get a lot of core services, such as academic and financial counselling, residence and orientation.

It is also a social network where you will find a range of academic and non-academic programs and activities, special traditions and lifelong friendships.

Q: What did you know about the colleges when you applied to U of T?

A: I didn’t know much about the colleges when I applied, but once I started at U of T, I learned that the whole point of the college system is to provide students with a smaller community within the huge community that is Arts & Science. You have the chance to meet people, which was so essential to my university journey.

A: In my second year, I was an orientation coordinator and got involved with the Woodsworth College Students’ Association. That changed my outlook on university because I was part of something bigger than myself; I was helping first-year students transition to university and that meant a lot to me.

Q: What advice do you have for navigating first year?

A: Join as many clubs as you can. Joining clubs is one of the best ways to meet new friends and get more involved. This is your chance to try new things!

Your One-Stop Shop Your college registrar’s office is a reliable first stop whenever you have questions or concerns or are facing issues that are getting in the way of your success.

Within your college you will find: • Academic and financial advising • Academic success programs • Social events • Health and wellness counselling • Orientation activities • Residence accommodations • Student clubs and organizations

Faculty of Arts & Science

A: My college has been an important part of my university life. In first year, I found orientation to be a very welcoming experience. Many firstyear classes have hundreds of students and it can be hard to meet people that way. Through my college, I was able to make a lot of new friends. I love the community that I’m in.

Q: How are you involved in college life?

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Q: How would you describe your college experience?

Welcome Guide 2022

Student Experience

8 AM

10 AM

Sipping coffee with her roommate in residence

Checking out some books at E.J. Pratt Library

Walking to campus through Philosopher’s Walk

Attending mid-morning class in Convocation Hall

Commuting on the subway

Starting her day with a workout at Goldring Centre

Presenting her research in class

Working on a paper in the Sidney Smith Commons

MANOU

Double major in criminology and linguistics.

Four students, four days in Arts & Science. Watch their stories at: artsci.utoronto.ca/future

GEORGE

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University of Toronto

A DAY IN MY LIFE

Double major in political science and philosophy.

MELISSA

Double major in pharmacology and molecular genetics and microbiology.

Minor in education and society.

MARIA

Double major in international relations and public policy.

Minor in political science.

2 PM

4 PM

6 PM

Reviewing her notes before class

Grabbing a snack with a friend

Working her on-campus job at the Sidney Smith Commons

Attending an evening lecture

Finding course reserves at Innis College Library

Enjoying some downtime between classes

Having dinner outside at Innis College’s courtyard

Heading to an exhibit at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)

Studying with a classmate at Trinity Library

Attending her lab

Satisfying her sweet tooth at a nearby bakery

Meeting up with a friend at the end of the day

Asking a few questions at the Office of the Faculty Registrar

Admiring the art at the Art Museum on campus

Booking an appointment at Health Services

Taking the streetcar home 13

Faculty of Arts & Science

12 PM

Welcome Guide 2022

City Sights

MY TORON 1. Nathan Phillips Square.

Skating at this famous rink is a great way to enjoy winter in the city.

2. King Street. You will be

well-caffeinated thanks to the independent coffee shops with Wi-Fi friendly study spots and seriously good coffee.

3. Queen West. You’ll find

shopping for every style and budget, with all sorts of eclectic spots to keep things interesting.

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University of Toronto

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4. The Beaches. With

three kilometres of boardwalk and sand, you can skip stones, play volleyball or lie in the sun.

5. Major League. If you

like pro sports, this town has hockey, basketball and baseball.

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6. Kensington Market.

This neighbourhood is famous for its good eats and handmade and second-hand finds.

Make Your Own T.O. Bucket List

7. The Distillery District.

The historic red-brick buildings, cobblestone streets, restaurants and galleries make this a great spot.

Living in a world-class city provides endless academic, social and networking opportunities. Visit destinationtoronto.com for fresh ideas and start exploring!

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8. Trinity Bellwoods Park. Soccer, frisbee,

art shows, theatre, drum circles and white squirrels are among the things you might see on any given day.

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9. The ROM. This is Canada’s largest collection of art, culture and natural history. The exhibits are top-notch, and dinosaurs never really get old.

Take a healthy break from studying. This trail is awesome for novice and avid cyclists.

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Faculty of Arts & Science

10. The Waterfront Trail.

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NTO

You only need a snapshot to see what makes this city one of a kind. Here are some of our students’ favourite spaces and places.

Welcome Guide 2022

Student Advice

Coming to university may feel like a big adjustment. Rest assured, there is a wide range of personal and academic support available. You just have to take the first step.

WHERE TO GO WHEN

College Registrar’s Office:

Advising on personal, academic, financial, family and career issues.

Department and program advisors: Specifics on

courses, programs, prerequisites and instructional issues.

College Deans of Students and Student Life Offices:

Information and advice about student-life activities, residence and commuterstudent support.

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University of Toronto

The Office of the Faculty Registrar: Information

Where will your degree take you?

Read stories of Arts & Science alumni and explore the many career options your U of T degree will give you at: careernavigator.studentlife. utoronto.ca

THRIVE IN FIRST YEAR

about transfer credits, exam conflicts, student awards, financial aid, tuition and more.

Sidney Smith Commons: A

physical and online space for students to study, conduct group work and access academic support and resources.

U of T Student Life programs and services: Academic

support, accessibility resources, health and wellness, career planning, diversity and equity offices, community safety and more.

Multi-Faith Centre: Space for prayer, worship and other spiritual practice.

First Nations House:

Academic and personal services for Indigenous students and learning opportunities for all students to engage with Indigenous communities.

English Language Learning Program: Support to

improve your English language skills.

Learn more about these and other resources at: artsci.utoronto.ca/current/ academic-advising-andsupport

I enrolled with Accessibility Services in second year and it completely changed my university experience for the better. It’s important to me to be the best student I can be and I couldn’t do that without the educational aids that U of T offers.

Sophia, Major in political science, double minor in sociology and music history

FYI ON THE RECORD!

We believe learning happens in many ways, in many places. The Co-Curricular Record documents your involvement outside the classroom at U of T. It's a great resource to find opportunities to expand your experience and horizons. It also helps you build your resume. clnx.utoronto.ca/ccr

5 WAYS TO SHAKE THINGS UP AFTER CLASS

1. Join a club or association that sparks your interest ulife.utoronto.ca 2. Sweat it out at one of U of T’s many fitness facilities kpe.utoronto.ca/sports-and-rec 3. Head to an intramural sports game uoftintramurals.ca 4. Join a student government utsu.ca / assu.ca / apus.ca 5. Attend one of Hart House’s free weekly drop-in craft workshops harthouse.ca

Neo, Specialist in applied mathematics

As a student who speaks English as a second language, English Language Learning courses guided me to practice and gain confidence in my reading and writing skills and provided an excellent opportunity to meet new friends.

I always use my college's writing centre for help with essay writing. Even though I’m an English major, it’s always great to have a second perspective and get feedback. They point out things you would never notice and provide great constructive criticism.

Sonie, Specialist in art history

Natalia, Double major in English and criminology

AND BEYOND

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I’m very unapologetic about receiving mental health support through the U of T My Student Support Program and I think every student should be. These resources are there to help you be a better version of yourself.

Faculty of Arts & Science

Want more ideas?

Visit studentlife.utoronto.ca

Welcome Guide 2022

Checklist

THINGS TO DO

You’re almost there! Don’t miss these important next steps towards starting your exciting first year at U of T. Accept Your Offer

If you have not already done so, follow the instructions in your offer package to accept your offer and pay your admission deposit (if applicable) by the deadline and make it official.

Accept Your Residence Placement

If you applied for residence, you will receive a residence placement via email. You must accept your residence placement and pay your residence fees by the deadline. residence.utoronto.ca Research First-Year Opportunities

Check out these small-group opportunities only for first-year students: First-Year Foundations Seminars, Ones Programs and First-Year Learning Communities. uoft.me/firstyearprograms Note: Some of the First-Year Foundations Ones Programs require an application.

Start Planning

Check out the New Student Guide for details on how to plan your first year, enrol in courses, view deadlines and more. uoft.me/nsg

FYI MARK YOUR CALENDAR

June Watch for emails from the Faculty of Arts & Science, your college and your upper-year student mentor to participate in summer programming and orientation events for new students

Early July Registration opens to join a FirstYear Learning Community Find your start time for course enrolment on ACORN, U of T’s online student information service acorn.utoronto.ca

Late July Course enrolment begins on ACORN Activate your UTORid to obtain your UTmail+ (your official U of T student email address) and to get your TCard to access online and in-person student services

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University of Toronto

Submit All Required Documents INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS: Apply for your study permit as soon as you receive your offer of admission and pay your admission deposit by the deadline listed in your offer letter.

Check your JOIN U of T portal to ensure you have submitted any outstanding documents, such as final transcripts, to meet your admission conditions or to be assessed for transfer credits (if applicable). join.utoronto.ca Connect With Us

Chat online or attend a webinar to help you prepare for your first year. uoft.me/welcome-events

Late August Deadline to pay your first tuition fee installment (or defer based on OSAP)

September 8 Classes start

FYI PLANNING YOUR FINANCES

There are many ways to support your financial needs. For information about awards, financial aid and advising, tuition fees and budgeting, visit: future.utoronto.ca/finances

Financial Aid Guarantee U of T Financial Aid (UTAPS) guarantees that financial circumstances won’t prevent you from attending and completing your studies.

DESIGN: UNDERLINE STUDIO / ILLUSTRATION: SAM ISLAND / PRINTING: ANDORA GRAPHICS / PAGE 14 NATHAN PHILLIPS SQUARE PHOTO: CITY OF TORONTO

UTAPS is open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents and protected persons studying full-time. future.utoronto.ca/finances/ financial-aid/university-of-torontofinancial-aid-utaps

In-Course Scholarships If you excel in your program, you are considered at the end of your first, second and third year. artsci.utoronto.ca/current/facultyregistrar/scholarships-and-awards

Working On and Off Campus U of T is one of Toronto’s top employers. There are many WorkStudy positions available on campus.

Being in the heart of Toronto also means you are surrounded by job opportunities. Start your search for on- and off-campus positions at: clnx.utoronto.ca

Special Thanks Many of the photos in this guide were taken by these talented current and former students in the Faculty of Arts & Science: Jemel Ganal Asher Minden-Webb Bryan M. Li Jiachen Yue Please note: Images of large crowds and unmasked people displayed throughout this publication were taken before the pandemic.

Connect with us!

Office of the Faculty Registrar Student Recruitment Team 416-978-3384 recruit.artsci@utoronto.ca @uoftartsci #UofTBound

Prepare for September with our New Student Guide

uoft.me/nsg