More study space added for engineering students
Engineering students will find they have more space to study this year and more room to work on their design projects after some updates to the Vari building and lower Kerr Hall.
"Study and collaboration space is essential to learning and as Ryerson's student body grows, we are committed to addressing these needs," said Julia Hanigsberg, vice-president, finance and administration. "This new space for engineering students to study and the renovated room to collaborate on team projects is part of that ongoing initiative."
The faculty/staff lounge in room 273 in the George Vari Engineering and Computing Centre has been turned over to students and repurposed for study space, the first dedicated room for studying in the building.
"All engineering students are welcome to study here," says Rose Ghamari, president of the Ryerson Engineering Students Society (RESS). "This room will be a tremendous support for students to help them work productively and excel at school." A meet-and-greet by RESS is planned for Sept. 20 at 1 p.m. to open the space, now named Hardhat Quarters (HQ) through an RESS facebook poll.
Also in the Vari building, on the lower ground level study space, students will find a new food kiosk and two more study tables in addition to the existing tables. Some of the tables will be wired so students can plug in as they work together.
An area in lower Kerr Hall formerly known as the Rye-O-Mat has also been renovated to accommodate student engineering teams working on design projects and competitions. The room, set to open in early October, features enclosed workspaces and locked storage space. The initiative aims to provide much-needed dedicated space for group projects such as the Formula SAE team, where students design, build and compete with an Indy-style race car. The area will be managed and supervised by the Faculty of Engineering and Architectural Science.
"Creating study and design space for our engineering students is a great initiative and it’s one they will truly appreciate," says Heather Lane Vetere, vice-provost, students. "The collaborative approach to this project serves as a great example of students, staff and faculty working together to support learning and make a difference for our students."