Parents
WELCOME!
Parents & Guardians
On behalf of the First-Year Engineering Office (FYEO), we would like to give you a warm welcome to Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), and the Faculty of Engineering and Architectural Science (FEAS).
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Welcome to the First-Year Engineering Program
Dear Parents,
Welcome to the Toronto Metropolitan community! As the Director of the First-Year Engineering Office at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), it is my great pleasure to welcome you and your student to our institution and the beginning of their engineering journey.
We understand this is an exciting time for both you and your students, and we want to assure you that we are committed to providing them with the best possible start to their engineering education. Our dedicated faculty and staff have designed a comprehensive first-year curriculum to lay a strong foundation for their upcoming years and help them develop the essential skills required to succeed in their chosen field. At TMU, we believe in a holistic approach to education, where a supportive and inclusive learning environment complements academic excellence. Our goal is to foster not only intellectual growth but also personal and professional development. Throughout the first year, we encourage our students to engage in extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations that cater to their diverse interests and passions. This will help them build a network of peers, develop leadership skills, and create a well-rounded university experience.
To ensure a smooth transition into university life, we have organized an orientation program that will introduce your students to the campus, academic resources, and support services available to them. They will have the opportunity to meet their professors, advisors, and classmates, fostering a sense of belonging and community right from the start. We understand the importance of a strong support system and are dedicated to guiding your students every step of the way. In addition to academic support, we have implemented various mentorship programs where upper-year students provide guidance and advice to first-year students. These mentors act as valuable resources, offering insight into the academic workload, time management strategies, and study techniques that have proven successful for them. We strongly encourage your students to take advantage of these opportunities and seek assistance whenever needed.
As parents, your involvement and support are crucial to your student's success. We value your partnership and invite you to participate in our parent orientation event and navigate this website, which is designed to address any concerns you may have and help you stay abreast of what is happening here on campus.
In conclusion, my colleagues and I would like to express our enthusiasm for your student's journey into the world of engineering. The first year may present its challenges, but with perseverance, dedication, and our unwavering support, your student will thrive and grow into a confident and accomplished engineer. We are excited to have them as part of our vibrant community, and we look forward to witnessing their achievements over the coming years.
Together, let us unite to make these next four years truly transformative!
Lamya Amleh, Ph.D, PEng.
Navigate Around Campus
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Located in the heart of Toronto, TMU offers 125+ graduate and undergraduate programs to help prepare and assist 45,000+ students.
By being part of such a large community, it may be difficult to navigate through campus. As such, open from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm on weekdays, FYEO can gladly assist to those in need.
Find us in the ENG building in room 340A!
Find your way around using TMU’s campus map!
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Starting an Engineering degree can be an exhilarating and demanding journey for both you and your student. To assist you in feeling more ready for the year ahead, we have compiled a list of tasks and conversations that you might find valuable to have with your student.
Resource Checklist
Participated in the Parents Info Night (opens in new window) event to gain crucial information about student services, counseling, and the first-year experience.
Downloaded the FYEO Mobile App to stay updated on exams, study halls, enrollment deadlines, and access support services.
Established communication guidelines with your student to stay in touch throughout the semester.
Familiarized yourself with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (opens in new window) to understand your student's privacy rights.
Explored the First-Year Engineering Office (opens in new window) website and the First-Year Engineering Handbook (opens in new window) for essential information and guidance.
Ensured your student has synchronized their schedule with the First-Year Engineering Student Calendar (opens in new window) to stay organized and meet deadlines.
Reviewed the Community Safety and Security page (opens in new window) with your student to prioritize their well-being on campus.
Additional Tips and Strategies
Keeping Up with Communications
Gmail labels for your student's university account, i.e., create a label for any emails from firstyeareng@torontomu.ca (opens in new window)
FYEng Mobile App (external link, opens in new window) to get key notifications and announcements from the FYEO
Managing Course Load
FYEO First-Year in Two Years (opens in new window)
FYEO Transition Program (opens in new window)
Adjusting other commitments
Writing-down deadlines
Keeping on top of key dates
FYEO Workload Calendar (opens in new window)
FYEO Student Calendar (opens in new window) to your calendar
Needing help with course material
FYEO Midterm/Exam Study Halls (opens in new window)
Math and Computer Programming Tutoring (opens in new window)
Supported Learning Groups (opens in new window)
Professor Office Hours
Time Management, Motivation, Concentration, Learning, Note-Taking, Test Prep
Study Skills and Transition Support Workshops (opens in new window)
Academic Peer Coach program (opens in new window)
Student Supports and Services
The First-Year Engineering Office (FYEO)
FYEO is responsible for managing all academic and administrative aspects related to your student's first year of engineering at TMU. We are their primary resource during their initial year! Our objective is to facilitate a seamless, enjoyable, and prosperous transition from high school to university for your student.
Email: Students can send their questions, concerns and inquiries to firstyeareng@torontomu.ca.
Virtual Advising Appointments (VAR)
By visiting the FYEO'S Academic Advising (opens in new window) page, students can access assistance from our dedicated advisors. They are available to help navigate TMU's system, provide guidance on administrative and technical processes such as using MyServiceHub, course enrollment, plan changes, and academic considerations. Confidentiality is maintained during VAR visits with private break-out rooms for privacy.
Academic Advisors
In case you or your student have more intricate academic concerns, you can book an appointment with an academic advisor through our website. (opens in new window) Our dedicated academic advisors offer personalized one-on-one support tailored to address your student's needs. They can provide valuable assistance with course planning, program selection, and any other academic support you may require to ensure their academic success. Don't hesitate to take advantage of their expertise and guidance on your student's educational journey.
Students are encouraged to seek support at any time and not wait until issues arise. It is important for your student to be proactive and ask for assistance as early as possible. Furthermore, please motivate your student to explore the various programs and services offered by FYEO Academic Supports throughout the year.
Engineering ACES
The objective of this program (opens in new window) is to encourage involvement and provide mentorship, tutoring, and skill-building opportunities for first-year students. Upper-year leaders conduct course-specific study sessions to motivate students to study and create stress-free environments for seeking assistance.
Study Support
FYEO organizes multiple study halls for various courses in each term. Students have access to tutoring services through course-based group learning sessions and private tutoring sessions that can be booked through Student Life and Learning Support (opens in new window) .
Administrative Support
If you or your student require help with tuition payment or have questions about OSAP, the Service Hub (opens in new window) is the central resource for all administrative needs related to enrollment status and fees.
International Student Support (ISS)
ISS is committed to assisting international students in their transition to university life in Canada. They offer events and services designed to facilitate adjustment, along with administrative support pertaining to visas. For additional details, please visit the ISS website.
Accommodation Support
Academic Accommodation Support (opens in new window) (AAS) offers academic accommodation and support services to students with disabilities who require special arrangements to complete their studies.
Common Scenarios Faced By First-Year Students
As your child embarks on their exciting journey as a university student, we understand that you may have questions and concerns. Our website is dedicated to providing valuable insights and practical advice for parents navigating the transition with their child.
Within our comprehensive guide, you will find a wealth of information on various scenarios your child may encounter as a student at Toronto Metropolitan University. We address topics such as adjusting to campus life, academic challenges, managing finances, and fostering a healthy work-life balance.
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Potential Reasons:
- Navigating the transition from high school to university
- Addressing academic success and performance-related concerns
- Developing effective learning strategies and study skills
- Setting clear academic goals and charting an educational path
- Experiencing imposter syndrome (external link)
Signs to Look for in Student Conversations:
- The contrasts between University and High School
- Struggling to adapt to higher workload
- Ineffective High School study habits, such as last-minute cramming, prove inadequate
Identify and Encourage Use of Learning Success Tools and Resources:
Take this opportunity to discuss the reasons behind their grade decline and explore available support programs or services at FYEO or TMU that can assist them this semester. These may include:
- FYEO First-Year in Two Years (opens in new window)
- FYEO Early Intervention Program (opens in new window)
- FYEO Transition Program (opens in new window)
- FYEO Engineering ACES (opens in new window)
- Study Skills and Learning Success Programs and Services (opens in new window)
- International Student Support (opens in new window)
- Health and Wellness Resources (opens in new window)
Encourage them to visit professors and instructors during office hours for guidance and clarification. Additionally, suggest reaching out to the First-Year Engineering Office (opens in new window) and/or their Academic Advisor (opens in new window) for further assistance. If they have a diagnosed learning or attentional disability or suspect having one, recommend contacting Academic Accommodations Support (opens in new window) (AAS) for potential psycho-educational assessment facilitation. For students residing in the university's residence, urge them to connect with their designated Academic Link (AL) (opens in new window) .
Course Load:
If your student is facing difficulties with a particular course, it might be beneficial for them to consider reducing their course load, provided they adhere to the specified deadlines. However, it is important for them to consult an FYEO Academic Advisor and discuss the matter with Student Financial Assistance beforehand to assess any potential impact on their financial aid or scholarships.
It is worth noting that completing an undergraduate degree within four years is increasingly common. Engineering students have up to eight years to fulfill their degree requirements, while those specializing in Chemical Engineering have a ten-year timeframe.
Set Reasonable Expectations:
- Acknowledge that the academic expectations and demands in university are notably distinct from those in high school.
- Demonstrate ongoing interest and support, even if their academic performance may not meet initial expectations.
- It is common for students to experience a decline in their grades during their first year of university, in contrast to their high school grades.
Privacy Considerations:
Please note that student academic records are protected as confidential under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA). As a result, FYEO is unable to disclose specific information about a student, such as application status, grades, or academic standing, to anyone, including family members, without the student's written consent.
Financial Support:
Prior to commencing their studies, it is important to ensure that they have sufficient funds to cover their educational and other expenses. It is worth noting that relying solely on OSAP may not fully cover all the costs associated with their studies. We encourage you to reach out to Student Financial Assistance for further information and guidance in this regard.
Potential Reasons:
- Navigating a new environment
- Transitioning from familiar to unfamiliar surroundings
- Creating a sense of belonging on campus
- Building new social connections and support systems
Signs to Look for in Student Conversations:
- The overall challenges of trying to be social, meeting different people, and fitting in
- Feeling insignificant as they are among a greater student population competing for grades, professors’ attention, and respect
Personal Support
Empathise
- Be accessible and open to communication. Demonstrate attentiveness to your student's emotions and be prepared for a range of feelings, particularly in the initial weeks of their university experience.
Inquire
- Engage in discussions about the actions they have already taken or can consider to improve their well-being.
- Refrain from providing explicit advice or imposing solutions. Instead, express faith in their capability to navigate and adapt to this new experience.
Communicate
- Maintain regular communication with your student who is living away from home, utilizing various means such as phone calls, emails, text messages, and social media, even if they may not respond immediately.
- Arrange planned visits to campus and the city they reside in, creating valuable opportunities to explore together.
- Consider sending them pictures and care packages to show your love and support.
Reassure
- Encourage your student to embrace patience in building new friendships and assure them that they are not alone in their situation.
Support
- During this transitional period, your student may encounter new social dynamics and interests that can potentially strain or end long-standing friendships and relationships. It is important to acknowledge that this can be an emotionally challenging time for your student.
Community and Belonging
- Encourage your student to explore the abundant opportunities available to connect with other students and engage in the vibrant TMU community beyond the classroom. They can actively participate in FEAS chapter, course union or interest group (opens in new window) , where they will find a supportive community and valuable chances to advocate for their peers, as well as develop skills in areas like electronics and networking. Additionally, connecting with First-Year Ambassadors (opens in new window) will provide them with valuable guidance and support during their transition to life at TMU.
- If your student is living on campus, suggest that they reach out to their Residence Advisor (RA). These experienced upper-year students reside in the same building and can offer assistance, resources, and connections to other students on their floor and within the university community. The RA can help your student make the most of their residence experience and fully engage with the diverse opportunities available.
Potential Reasons:
- Adapting to the university culture and embracing the changes in academic demands, structures, and responsibilities
- Understanding and navigating academic and administrative policies and procedures
- Balancing newfound freedom and flexibility with the need for independent learning and increased personal responsibility
- Developing effective time management and task organization skills
Signs to Look for In Student Conversations:
- Juggling academic responsibilities, social engagements, and family commitments
- Adapting to the significant differences in workload and stress levels between high school and first-year university
Personal Support
Encourage
- Familiarize yourself and your student with TMU's academic policies and procedures, which can be found in the First-Year Engineering Handbook (opens in new window) and TMU’s Undergraduate Calendar (opens in new window)
- Encourage your student to prioritize self-care and stress management by emphasizing the importance of the four R's: Relaxation, Recreation, Relationships, and Reflection.
Empathise
- Recognize and appreciate your student's strengths and achievements, while also reassuring them that it's natural to make mistakes. Emphasize that learning from setbacks and moving forward is an integral part of the educational journey.
Recognize
- University culture often demands that students extend their presence on campus beyond the conventional "9 to 5" routine.
Support Services
- Provide recommendations or refer them to campus resources that specialize in Learning Support (opens in new window) and/or Health and Wellness (opens in new window) . These services can offer valuable assistance in managing stress, addressing performance anxiety, and enhancing task and time management skills.
Academic Integrity
- As academic work becomes more demanding, students may face the temptation to engage in academic misconduct. It is important to familiarize yourself and encourage your student to explore TMU's Academic Integrity website (opens in new window) . Be knowledgeable about the various forms of academic misconduct, as the university takes this matter seriously.
Frequently Asked Questions
Settling in University Life
| Question | Answer |
| My student just got an offer at TMU Engineering. What are the next steps? | Congratulations! We recommend that your student carefully review the (google slide) First-Year Engineering Handbook (external link) . It contains important information and support resources to help ease the transition to university. Additionally, the handbook provides guidance on essential next steps such as creating an email account, accessing Ryerson Administrative Management Self Service (MyServiceHub), and obtaining a StudentOneCard. Your student should also explore the FYEO website (opens in new window) , which offers a summer checklist to follow once the offer has been accepted. Furthermore, we strongly encourage your student to attend the upcoming Orientation Week (external link, opens in new window) in September. It will provide valuable information and opportunities to connect with fellow students. Best of luck to your student as they embark on their university journey! |
| How is university life different from high-school? | In university, students have greater responsibility for their learning compared to high school. The academic standards shift, with fewer lecture hours and an emphasis on independent work. For helpful tips on supporting your student during this transition, please visit this link (opens in new window) . It provides valuable information to assist you in navigating this new chapter with your student. |
| What are key purchases that my student needs to make for university? | When your student is moving to university residences, it is important to consider essential purchases to ensure their comfort and convenience. These may include personal bedding items like duvets and pillows, as well as everyday items such as mugs, glasses, and plates. The Student OneCard is also valuable as it offers discounts on food and electronic purchases. Furthermore, depending on their enrolled courses, your student may need to purchase books from the Campus Bookstore. |
| What are some important events that my student will take part in? What are important university deadlines that my student needs to be mindful about? |
You can access the undergraduate calendar through this link (opens in new window) . The (google slide) First-Year Engineering Handbook (external link, opens in new window) also includes the Significant Dates. |
| How can I support my student during their transition to university? | Your student will need to prioritize and balance their work, academic, and personal life. It's important for you as a parent to be prepared to support them if they decide to change their program during their first year. Encourage your student to become more independent and expect changes to your family life as they may have to stay late on campus for studies or other commitments. We recommend checking in with your student regularly and providing emotional support when needed. |
| Are there adequate campus security for students walking back home at night? | TMU offers Campus Security Services that operate around the clock to ensure a safe environment for students. One such service is the Walk Safe Program, (opens in new window) which provides 24/7 escorts for students walking to locations on campus, including the Dundas station and nearby areas. |
Academic
| Question | Answer |
| What are the study resources that can my student avail? | Your student has access to various study resources, including:
|
| My student is struggling with…and needs more support to complete their course satisfactorily. Please advise. | Your student can benefit from various free academic support services, including programs like 'Math Support' and 'Study Skills and Transition Support'. For more information on these services, refer to the (google slide) First-Year Undergraduate Engineering Handbook (external link, opens in new window) . |
| My student may miss an important deadline due to a health related issue. Can you explain how academic accommodation work? | Your student would need to consult the Academic Accommodation Support (opens in new window) . |
| Does my student have the opportunity to connect with other students and learn from their experiences? | During the Orientation, your student will have the opportunity to meet the FYEO team, including the First-Year Ambassadors (opens in new window) (FDYAs). These senior year engineering students play a crucial role in providing guidance and support to incoming students. |
| How can my student better prepare to manage the university workload? | To support your student in creating a healthy balance, we suggest the following:
By implementing these strategies, you can help your student navigate their academic journey while maintaining a well-rounded lifestyle. |
| How can I remain updated about campus news/announcements? | The FYEO regularly shares informative E-Newsletters, accessible to the public. Additionally, you can download the FYEng App (external link) to receive updates, access forms, schedule academic appointments, discover campus events, reserve study rooms, and plan your courses. Stay connected and informed by utilizing these valuable resources. |
Financial
| Question | Answer |
| I would like to get more information on university finances. How much would it cost to study Engineering at TMU? | The tuition fees differ based on the student's classification as a Canadian Citizen/Permanent Resident or International Student (opens in new window) . |
| What is the cost of living in Toronto? | The expenses associated with living in Toronto encompass various aspects such as tuition fees, accommodation, transportation, books and supplies, food, and personal expenses. For a detailed breakdown of the costs, you can refer to the 'Fees and Finances' (opens in new window) section. |
| When will my student get to know about their OSAP payments? | Details on Student Financial Assistance can be found here (opens in new window) . |
| Are there any scholarships that my student can avail? | There are numerous scholarships and awards available for undergraduate students. For further information regarding these opportunities, please visit the provided link (opens in new window) . |
Career
| Question | Answer |
| Are there any training programs that can gear my student towards a career in their field? | The FYEO offers career workshops tailored for undergraduate engineering students. Moreover, there are several competitive programs available for your student to apply to, such as the FEAS Co-op & Internship Program. This program (opens in new window) not only enhances important soft skills but also provides valuable experience in an engineering workplace, fostering networking opportunities with industry professionals. |
| Are there any job opportunities for my student to get involved in? | The Career, Co-op & Student Success Centre (opens in new window) offers valuable guidance on career development and job opportunities for students. |
| What are the different paths after graduation? | The career journey after graduation is not predetermined for engineering students. While many thrive in their respective fields, they also have the option to explore different career paths with limitless possibilities. Some students find their career paths influenced by their minor studies and pursue their passions in those areas. Engineering education equips students with a diverse skillset that can be applied to various professional endeavors. Additionally, TMU organizes alumni networking events throughout the year, offering students the chance to connect with TMU graduates, seek guidance, and gain insights from their academic and career experiences. |
Health and Recreation
| Question | Answer |
| What sports/recreational clubs are there for my student to get involved in? | Engaging in physical activity is beneficial for clarity of thought, stress reduction, improved studying, and fostering positive relationships. TMU (opens in new window) offers a variety of sports and recreational clubs for students to participate in, including clubs, group fitness classes, instructional sports, and intramural sports. These activities provide opportunities for students to stay active and connect with others. |
| Are there any mental health counselling services available? | The Centre for Student Development and Counselling (opens in new window) provides counselling support for students. |
| Are there health and wellness programs that my student can get involved in? | TMU provides a range of health promotion programs, wellbeing workshops, and valuable resources for students to access. These offerings (opens in new window) are designed to support students' physical and mental health. |
| Are there any accessibility services for differently abled students? | The concept of accessibility encompasses various aspects such as the classroom, workplace, and campus environment. For more detailed information on accessibility and how it relates to these different contexts, please refer to the following link (opens in new window) . |
| Are there any doctors on campus? | Located on campus, the Medical Centre offers a range of services including allergy shots, assessments for common medical issues, immunizations and TB skin testing, mental health assessments, physical examinations, and more. More information on booking an appointment with the Medical Centre can be found here (opens in new window) . |
Information Webinar
At the Parents Info Night, you'll hear from FYEO's program director, Dr. Lamya Amleh, about the first-year experience and ways to support your child. Discussions will cover student services, counseling, and an Academic Advisor will also provide insights. The event concludes with a Q&A session to address your questions about your child's program.
Date: August 30, 2023
Time: 6:00 PM EDT - 8:00 PM EDT
Location: Virtual (Zoom) OR In-Person (George Vari Engineering Building)
For those attending in-person, we have tailored campus tours for parents scheduled from 5-6 PM. Students are also welcome to join. Please note that each family is limited to a maximum of 4 guests due to limited space availability.