In University, you will say or think ‘I’m going to die’ more than 101 times. You will ‘die’ due to the amount of work you need to submit in the next 48 hours, or the amount of studying you need to do for that upcoming midterm.You’ll also probably ‘die’ due to the amount of social events you are invited to. But the first thing you will absolutely DIE for is 101 Week.
The very first week of September is the first impression you will get of the university, the first impression you will give to your student body, and the first impression you will get of your future best buds.
You will remember 101 Week for the rest of your life because it marks the beginning of the incredible journey you will have at the University of Ottawa. And trust me, the journey is INCREDIBLE.
Organized by the Student Federation of the University of Ottawa (SFUO),101 Week is perfectly tailored to incoming students. Not only is there a general 101 Week everyone can attend (see here), but each faculty also has its own specialized 101 Week. All have a combination of dry and wet (alcohol present) events, with alternatives such as karaoke night, to appeal to every type of student out there!
What are some events to look forward to? Well this year, uOttawa is hosting Lupe Fiasco and Kardinal Offishall during our annual outdoor concert called FedStock! Get ready to enjoy the music in beautiful Confederation Park, and participate in awesome carnival games and obstacle courses! There is also the Home Opener game of the GeeGee’s football team which will be a competitive game and a classic display of our GeeGee spirit! Finally, we end this week at Camp Fortune – a ski resort in Quebec. 3,000+ 101-ers partying to mulptiple DJ’s is an unreal way to end the first week of your time at uOttawa!
What is so great with uOttawa’s 101 Week is the fact that you are in the perfect environment to have loads of fun. The enthusiastic guides are thoroughly trained (with days and days of training) to be able to ensure everyone is having an amazing time, all while staying safe.
However, this doesn’t mean it’s the right time to learn how to drink! Be responsible and drink within your limits. Nobody likes vomit. Nobody.
Uncertainty and anxiety are common feelings students experience prior to arriving at the university. 101 Week is perfect to get rid of your worries. You’ll get to know other students from the same faculty before your first class, which will make the latter that much less intimidating.
If you’re worried about not finding any friends, take a look at the University of Ottawa Class of 2018 SOCIAL-GROUP™ which will prove to you that a welcoming student body is waiting for you with open arms. It doesn’t matter who you were before, you can shine as bright as you wish to, and be who you really are!
My main tips to all you crazy froshers are:
- Don’t be shy: Seriously. This is your time to make new friends and step out of your comfort zone. Many of you have travelled across the province, the country or even the world to attend uOttawa. 101 week is the best opportunity to make friends for life!
- Be the first one who says hi: Be Ron Weasley. Just do it.
- Accept challenges given by your 101 Week guides: Your 101 week guides are there to make sure your 101 week is the best exprience it can be. If they challenge you to lead a cheer, show them how loud you can be! Now it must be noted that hazing is strictly prohibited at uOttawa. So none of that nonsense will be happening.
- Come out of your comfort zone: It’s hard. I get it. But trust me, if you want to remember this week for years to come you’ve got to step out of your comfort zone, and experience new things!
- Most importantly, have fun!
The more you participate, the more rewarding the experience will be. Don’t forget this statement also applies past 101 Week!
If you haven’t gotten your 101 Week kit yet, or would like more information, visit this link!
If you would like to know more about your student federation, visit this link!
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