Highlights from this year’s Orientation Week
Road to RU had more than 200 virtual and in-person events to welcome first- and second-year students to campus. Photo by Lucy Lu.
Orientation is all about building connections and community, both of which are even more important this year as the university gradually welcomes back students on campus for limited in-person learning and activities.
Between Aug. 23 and Sept. 6, first- and second-year students experienced what life on campus looks like with in-person events held with safety precautions throughout #RoadtoRU Orientation Week. From campus tours to street fairs, fitness classes and themed welcome parties, students were able to meet their peers and build a sense of belonging to the campus community after many months of remote learning.
Move-in day took place over two days for health and safety reasons, with one-hour time slots assigned to students moving into residence. A total of 862 students will be living in three residence buildings this year – Pitman Hall, International Living and Learning Centre, and the Daphne Cockwell Health Sciences Complex. Photo by RU Student Life.
New students were welcomed by the various faculties at the university, giving them a chance to meet their peers, get familiar with their academic program, learn more about the resources offered and the supports available to them during this period of transition. Photo by Lucy Lu.
The O’Fest Campus Street Fair took place over three days on Gould Street in the heart of campus. A street festival full of music, carnival games and more, students got together to play rounds of miniature golf, interactive basketball, ping pong and much more. Photo by Lucy Lu.
The campus street fair also showcased many of the services available to students such as the Student Learning Centre, Ryerson Eats and Athletics & Recreation. The Sustainability Office engaged with students on how they can join the university’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and gave them potted plants as souvenirs. Photo by Lucy Lu.
From yoga and pilates to Zumba and groove fit, outdoor group fitness classes were offered throughout Orientation Week to keep students feeling energized and stress-free. Certified trainers guided small groups of students through dance cardio, toning, stretching and meditation sessions. Photo by Lucy Lu.
First- and second-year students were able to sign up for in-person campus tours guided by experts. Since the university’s campus and buildings are spread over the Downtown East Toronto neighbourhood, the tour covered a large area and also provided students guidance on using public transportation to access the different parts of campus. Photo by Lucy Lu.
Event series such as Art Attack brought students together to get creative and destress. From engaging mixers to hand lettering, nail art, painting, origami and creating custom tote bags, students were able to showcase their individuality while creating something unique.