This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Toronto chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.
- Don’t be afraid to get involved- make sure to join clubs and become involved in different campus groups. U of T has something for everyone: the political junkie, the socially conscious girl, amazing sororities, and cultural organizations just to name a few. Chances are at a big school like U of T, you’ll feel lost on the huge campus and clubs are one of the best ways to make it feel homey, especially if you’re a commuter.
- Talk to your professors- U of T has one of the best faculties in the world and while this may mean that they seem really intimidating, most professors will be impressed that you took the initiative to reach out and contact them. You also never know when you may need to ask your professor for a reference in the future and the better they get to know you, the better your reference will be.
- Go to the gym- on those long days when you’ve been sitting in Robarts for what seems like hours on end, a quick work out makes you feel better and can help keep off the freshman 15
- Make sure to balance your social life- Toronto’s plethora of night clubs, bars, and other forms of night life may seem fun at first but come October mid-terms and your text book remains unopened you’ll regret all those long nights out at the club.
- Explore the campus and map out your classes- chances are you will get lost on your first day, and probably many times throughout your university career. While there are maps around campus, any school that spans more than four subway stations and features winding Harry Potter style corridors (UC, here’s looking at you) will make it hard to find your classes. Mapping your classes will save your life- especially during the first week of school.
- Venture outside of campus- you came to school in the big city for a reason; now buy a token, even if the $3 price can seem a little steep for out-of-towners, and brave the TTC. It’s really not that bad! Make sure to explore areas such as the Fashion District, Little Italy, China Town, Kensington Market all of which just happen to be close to campus
- Stay on top of your reading- we know it can get a bit overwhelming at times but this simple act really can help. U of T isn’t known as the hardest university in the country for no reason, but staying on top of your reading will help you better understand your lectures and come exam time you’ll definitely ace them.
- Talk to strangers in class- you never know when you’re going to need a study buddy or notes when you get sick.
- Bring change- the 24hour Tim Hortons and Robarts vending machines will be your best friends after the food trucks have driven away and even the Starbucks, Subway, and food court have closed down at Robarts. Keeping well-fueled in the midst of a 10 hour study marathon is crucial and having at least a toonie on you will definitely be helpful.
- Keep reading Her Campus U of T because we’ll keep you updated on everything happening on campus and around the city.
Happy reading!