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A tip sheet to university

From learning assistance to wellness to clubs, there’s something for every need at Ryerson
By: Will Sloan
September 04, 2018
Eggy the Ram in the quad with students

Photo: Our mascot Eggy welcomes you to campus. 

The university experience stretches beyond the classroom. Whether you’re an incoming student who needs help navigating a new campus, a master’s candidate looking for a little extra tutoring, or just someone who wants to connect with friends over a shared interest, there’s something for you at Ryerson. Here are some tips for finding what you need at university.

For learning assistance
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of the classroom, or just need a little homework help, Ryerson has many resources to help you on your learning journey.

Student Learning Support offers services and programs to teach academic skills and study techniques, with workshops, bookable appointments with tutors, and a range of online resources. SLS  focuses on math, writing, study skills, English language, academic accommodation, as well as support for graduate students pursuing master’s and PhD degrees.

Coming to Toronto from abroad? International Student Support provides resources and community for students new to Canada. The office will guide you through the administrative process of visas, work permits, health insurance, and family visits, and help connect you with mentors and peers.

Looking to learn from a peer? The Tri-Mentoring Program (TMP) pairs first-year students with upper-year students in the same program to help ease the transition into postsecondary life. A truly cyclical program, TMP has seen first-year students return as mentors, and connects mentors with industry professionals.

For wellness
Staying in shape is a breeze with Ryerson’s state-of-the-art Mattamy Athletics Centre (external link) . In addition to housing the Ryerson Rams, the facility has everything from personal training to group fitness to open basketball, soccer, hockey, swimming, and other activities.

At Ryerson, we take mental health and wellbeing seriously. The Mental Wellbeing website hosts resources for students, families of students, faculty, and staff, and information for 24-hour crisis services. Personalized counselling is available to deal with loneliness, stress, homesickness, mourning, and whatever you’re feeling. You can book an appointment at the RU Medical Centre, or you can even arrange cuddles with the RU Therapy Dogs.

Ryerson is also committed to fostering a safe campus that is supportive of survivors. Consent Comes First—The Office of Sexual Violence Support and Education provides individual support for survivors and a range of workshops and events.

For your social life
Did you know that Ryerson has an Improv Club? Or a Debate Association? Or that there are groups for Filipino, and Ukrainian students, plus dozens more countries. Ryerson is home to more than 80 student groups where you can explore your passions while also connecting with like-minded peers. If you have a passion for politics, there’s the Ryerson Model UN. If you love what the written/spoken word can express, there’s Poetic Exchange. If you love the pop culture coming out of Asia, check out RU K-Pop or the Ryerson Anime Club. If you love the sound and culture of rap, there’s the Urban Hip Hop Union. We could go on, but there’s a full list here (external link) .

For Indigenous students, the Ryerson Aboriginal Student Services creates a supportive environment that balances academic learning with traditional teachings and culture. For queer and trans voices, RyePride (external link)  offers education, advocacy, and support. The Centre for Women and Trans People (external link)  is an organizing space for issues ranging from reproductive freedom to gender empowerment.

For your career
Whether you’re about to enter the job market, or just want to learn how to build your first LinkedIn page, Ryerson’s Career Centre  offers a constantly evolving slate of development programs tailored for each faculty. Its services include appointments with career education specialists and resumé/online profile advisors, career fairs, case competitions, and networking events all year long. It can also connect you with a diverse set of on-campus jobs, from administration to research to peer advising and more.

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