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14 Things to Consider if You’re Thinking About Moving to Toronto this Fall
June 21, 2021
Wondering whether or not you should make the move to Toronto this fall? It’s a big decision, especially given how much COVID-19 regulations have affected our way of life. However, with vaccination rates going up in Ontario and infection rates coming down, we’re making some changes on campus that you may want to factor in.
No doubt this fall will be a period of transition as we begin to increase the number of on-campus classes and activities in preparation for a full return in January 2022, and specific details about your program are still to come, but here are a few things that may be important to you and your student experience as you consider your options:
2. We’re making room for more students in residence.
If you’re interested in living on campus, we’d love to have you. Keeping your health and safety in mind, we’re planning on increasing our overall capacity for students who want to stay in residence. Visit our residence application page for more info, and keep an eye out this summer for updates from our Housing & Residence Life team about offers.
3. If residence isn’t your thing, we can help you find housing off campus.
If you prefer to live off campus, no problem. Our Housing & Residence Life team knows the ins and outs of finding a place in Toronto, and is great at helping you navigate things like lease agreements, landlords, budgeting and moving. Check out all of the supports available to you on the Off-Campus Housing page.
4. We’re supporting your academic success.
Need help writing an essay? Not sure how to study for that math test? No matter if you’re learning on campus or remotely, we have a variety of academic supports and study skills to help you thrive. From tutoring to study skill workshops to learning in a totally different time zone, Student Learning Support can help you build your academic success toolkit. If you need accommodations, Academic Accommodation Support is here to help regardless of your program or course load.
5. Need to study in peace? We’ve got you.
The Student Learning Centre (SLC), that iconic structure in the middle of campus that you definitely picture when you think of Ryerson, will be open to students this fall. With eight different floors – each with their own theme – you’ve got options to do your best work. Capacity will be managed in accordance with public health guidelines, and access will increase as the 2021 academic year progresses.
6. The resources you need for research will be at your fingertips.
The Ryerson University Library will continue to provide safe onsite and robust virtual services to support you academically, regardless of your location or the mode of your program’s delivery. The Library plans to expand onsite access to learning and study spaces, including computer, and scholarly, research and creative (SRC) labs, as well as specialized experiential learning programs.
7. Tech support is here for you if you need it.
We know tech issues are the worst, but Computing and Communications Services (CCS) is here for all of your IT needs. Whether you’re working close by or from afar, we’re ready to help you navigate any roadblocks so you can get your work done. Find student hours and contact info here, and remember: we’re always interested in how we can provide more useful, accessible, secure and affordable IT services to you.
8. Interested in a side hustle? We know who’s hiring.
We’ve got a lot of employer partners and we can’t wait to connect them with you. Ryerson’s Career & Co-op Centre will be your central resource for accessing relevant and innovative career development support, and we’re committed to providing you with innovative career assessment and development skills so you can excel in the workplace now and throughout your career.
9. We’re offering experiential learning opportunities.
Yes, experiential learning is back (in keeping with local public health guidelines, of course). We’re planning for increased on- and off-campus in-person opportunities this fall, and our Zone Learning network will have the flexibility to host on-campus activities by reopening co-working spaces, providing access to fabrication, technical and science labs, and offering hybrid in-person and online workshops, hackathons and speaker events.
10. We’re here to help you meet people and make friends.
Our Student Life and Learning Support (SLLS) team is here to help you take ownership of your Ryerson experience, and can help you grow as socially, civically and academically engaged community members. Whether you’re looking for clubs to join, information about university events, on-campus job opportunities or academic support, we’re here to help you expand your network and make the most of your time here.
11. You’ll have access to resources that support your wellbeing.
Balance is critical and your wellbeing is important to us, so we encourage you to focus on yourself as well as your studies. Not only will counselling and medical services be available both in person and remotely this fall, we also have a ton of resources on hand to suit your needs. Check out our Student Wellbeing page for more info.
13. We’re committed to equity, diversity and inclusion.
Ryerson is home to a community of people from diverse backgrounds; learn more about how the Office of Equity and Community Inclusion is working to foster community, to create more inclusive spaces and to address barriers on campus. Aboriginal Student Services is also available to help you connect with culturally supportive services that balance academic learning with traditional Indigenous teachings and culture, and the university’s Standing Strong (Mash Koh Wee Kah Pooh Win) Task Force has been working diligently with students, faculty and staff to reconcile Egerton Ryerson’s legacy.
While we can’t make the decision for you, we hope this list helps! If you’re looking to learn more, check out RU4U, your one-stop shop for Ryerson University student updates and resources; we also have specific resources for international students on our Global Learning page. Going into your first year? Our first-year guide can help you find your way and prepare for your first semester at Ryerson.
No matter where you end up, we look forward to welcoming you this fall! Until then, stay safe and have a great summer!
Jen McMillen
Vice-Provost, Students