Students: We can’t wait to see you in January!

You did it! The first semester of the academic year is almost a wrap. I want to congratulate you for all of the hard work you put into completing this term, as well as thank you for your patience and flexibility as we gradually began our return to campus.

Understandably, this transition hasn’t been easy. However, despite the challenges, you continuously showed up – whether on Zoom or in person – with a smile on your faces. You’ve worked hard, were incredibly resilient and demonstrated what it means to be a Ram. I wish you success, happiness and good health over the exam period and the winter break. 

I also want to thank the more than 40,000 of you who have already submitted your proof of vaccination and to all who are following our established protocols to help keep one another safe. Your continued efforts and compliance will ensure our broader return to campus in January will be smooth, safe and successful. 

With the majority of classes being offered in person next semester, I’m so excited for you to finally experience the vibrancy of our campus and don’t want anyone to miss out. 

Not only are all eligible students able to come to campus to attend classes, to participate in extracurricular activities and to access the university’s many services and supports, you’ll also be able to experience all the unique things our campus has to offer, like visiting the Ryerson Image Centre (external link) , grabbing a coffee at Balzac’s Ryerson Image Arts (external link)  and exploring the different floors of the SLC. Most importantly, you’ll be able to build a sense of community and connect with one another in person so you can enjoy a safe and well-rounded university experience this winter.

Don’t forget to attest to your vaccination status

We really want to experience the winter semester with you, so if you haven’t gotten vaccinated against COVID-19 or attested to your vaccination status in the RyersonSafe app or webpage (external link) , I strongly encourage you to do so by Wednesday, December 15. The submission is quick and easy, and remember that you need to attest to your status even if you don’t plan on being on campus. 

If you don’t submit your vaccination status by this date, you will be removed from any in-person winter courses and may lose access to key Ryerson systems – and we don’t want that to happen. If you have an exceptional circumstance that is delaying your compliance with the university’s COVID-19 Vaccination Policy, please fill out this form (external link) .

For more information about the policy and additional details you should know, please visit the university’s COVID-19 Vaccinations web page. While you’re there, you should also brush up on our Masks and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) guidelines, and our other campus health and safety protocols. We also have tons of information on the site dedicated to students, which has everything you need to prepare you for the winter semester.

Reminder: You will need your OneCard to gain entry to campus buildings

During the winter 2022 semester, exterior entrances to campus buildings will be locked and only accessible by tapping your OneCard against the card reader to gain entry. If you do not already have a OneCard or need a replacement, please visit the OneCard website for more information.

The last day to apply for, or to schedule an appointment to pick-up your OneCard before the winter break, is December 22, 2021. The online OneCard application portal will reopen on January 1, 2022 with appointments to pick up your card resuming on January 7, 2022.

We’re really excited to see you in January. Until then, stay safe, good luck on exams and enjoy your winter break! 

Jen McMillen
Vice-Provost, Students