Isabel Armiento

Topic

Sexual Violence Prevention & Support Centre

Back To School 2019

School of Cities

Faculty of Arts & Science

Rotman School of Management

Student Life

U of T Mississauga

U of T Scarborough

Summer has come to a close, but that doesn’t mean the fun is ending. Orientation week is packed with exciting – and informative – events that aren’t just for first-year students, including a parade, street festival, carnival and more.

For a break from ��Ƶ-related festivities, check out select TIFF films being screened on-campus. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a celebrity.

There are plenty of September events sure to get you excited about going back to school. Here’s just a sample:

Sept. 1

Sign up with U of T for the Academic Bicycle Challenge and win prizes for biking alongside – or against – peers, faculty members and other cyclists worldwide. Download the Naviki app (Google Play, iOS) from Sept. 1 to 30 to participate in this global phenomenon.

Sept. 3

Tri-campus orientation begins. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable first week by familiarizing yourself with information about orientation at the St. George campus, U of T Mississauga or U of T Scarborough.

Join U of T experts at the tri-campus Facebook Live and Instagram conference ASKme Anything about U of T and get the answers to all your campus-related questions.

Sept. 4

Show your school spirit at the tri-campus parade, beginning at 1 p.m. at Varsity Stadium, located at the St. George campus.

Continue the festivities at the Clubs Carnival, beginning at 3 p.m., located at King’s College Circle. St. George campus students should check out their college or faculty’s website to find out about college-specific club fairs.

Sept. 5

TIFF (the Toronto International Film Festival) begins, running until Sept. 15, with student tickets offered for only $11.50. On Sept. 11, catch the world première of Judy, starring Renée Zellweger as the legendary Judy Garland, without even leaving campus. The film is being screened at the Joseph L. Rotman School of Management.

Sept. 6

Hart House celebrates its 100^th anniversary with story-weaving project Encounters at the Edge of the Woods, running at the Hart House Theatre from Sept. 6 to 7.

Sept. 11

Take a break from classes and stop by U of T’s annual Street Festival, located at the St. George campus along St. George Street. Enjoy the activities, music and food trucks while learning more about campus life.

Sept. 12

Join the Faculty of Music for the first installation of the weekly series Thursdays at Noon, featuring the Juno Award-winning Gryphon Trio. Check out the Faculty of Music’s 2019/20 Season guide for a complete list of events, classes and performances.

Sept. 14

Show your support for mental health awareness at the 2019 Toronto Concert for Suicide Awareness, Prevention, and Hope. Listen to inspirational speeches and performances by U of T faculty, lecturers and alumni such as Norine Burgess, Dr. Andrea Levinson, Nathalie Paulin and Monica Whicher.

Sept. 17

Garner mental health resources on- and off-campus while learning to prioritize wellness over academic success at 2019 Minds Redefined, a mental health and wellness conference by the Faculty of Arts & Science that features keynote speakers Margaret Trudeau and Michael Landsberg and workshops such as “Navigating Career Uncertainty” and “failing excellently!”

Navigate Toronto’s rapidly shifting urban landscape with the first lecture in a four-part lecture series, hosted by U of T’s School of Cities in conjunction with the Toronto Public Library. Where We Gather explores the interplay between city life and public spaces.

Adapt your academic skills for the workplace at the U of T Career Fair, where you can network with more than 100 global organizations and employers.

Sept. 18

The Isuma artists’ collective works in conjunction with the Toronto Biennale of Art to produce Qaggiq: Gathering Place, a collection of video works that focus on storytelling and language. View the exhibition at the ��Ƶ Art Centre until Nov. 30.

Sept. 19

Explore a host of opportunities in your field at U of T Scarborough’s Get Experience Fair. Whether it’s through volunteering for a not-for-profit, working an on-campus job, assisting a prof’s research or studying abroad, there are plenty of ways to gain valuable – and relevant – experience.

Sept. 21

Learn how to use media and digital art as a narrative and rhetorical tool at Mixture: Digital Art and Compositional Realities, hosted by U of T Mississauga.

Sept. 23

Queer Orientation is a tri-campus week of LGBTQ-focused and community-building programming, running from Sept. 23 to 28.

Stay informed about U of T’s policy on sexual violence and sexual harassment. In-person consultation sessions are being held at all three campuses for staff, faculty and students: U of T Mississauga on Sept. 23, U of T Scarborough on Sept. 24 and St. George campus on Sept. 25.

Sept. 24

Show your support for the CIBC Run for the Cure with U of T Mississauga’s warm-up event – the Pink Campus Walk. For more fundraising events and initiatives, join U of T Mississauga’s Run for the Cure Ice Cream Day on Sept. 10 or their Run for the Cure Pink Luncheon on Sept. 17.

Sept. 26

Kick off the school year with a focus on wellness at Be Well UTM. Discover the wealth of wellness resources located on campus, including mental health supports, conflict resolution tools and fun drop-in fitness classes such as Introduction to Caribbean Dance.

Sept. 27

If you find yourself itching to do the Time Warp again or wondering whatever happened to Saturday night, head down to the Hart House Theatre for the opening night of The Rocky Horror Show. Catch this rendition of the cult classic for $12 to $15 until Oct. 12.

Sept. 28

Muse over works of musical genius with the first instalment of the Faculty of Music’s “What Makes It Great?” series – Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7.

Join photographer Aubie Golombek for a presentation on the relationship between form and image. Drawing on Bosch’s triptych painting “The Garden of Earthly Delights,” Golombek uses the dual media of contact print and lecture to synthesize his critical praxis.

Sept. 29

Take advantage of U of T’s photogenic landscapes during the Photo Walk Around Campus. Hosted by the Hart House Camera Club, this is the perfect opportunity to refine your photography practise, curate photos for your portfolio and network with other budding student photographers.

Sept. 30

Take a break from the clamour of courses to listen to a heartrending Faculty of Music performance by soprano Nathalie Paulin and pianist Steven Philcox, inspired by Messiaen’s Chants de Terre et de Ciel.

The most Instagram-worthy spots at U of T – check out these tri-campus locations

noreen.rasbach — Thu, 29 Aug 2019 04:00:00 +0000

The most Instagram-worthy spots at U of T – check out these tri-campus locations

noreen.rasbach Thu, 08/29/2019 - 00:00

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True Blue strikes a pose at U of T Mississauga's Wilson Pond Bridge (all photos by Johnny Guatto)

Topic

With its plethora of unique architectural styles, the ��Ƶ is the perfect place to take photos. Train your lens on U of T Mississauga’s idyllic nature spots, the St. George campus’s historical settings and U of T Scarborough’s newly renovated modern backdrops.

There’s a location calling the name of every photographer – and every budding Instagram influencer.

True Blue, U of T’s mascot – and part-time Instagram model – guides us through some of the most Insta-worthy locations at the three campuses.

St. George campus

Between the 19^th-century elegance of Trinity College, the modern brutalism of Robarts and the edgy hybrid style of the Joseph L. Rotman School of Management, the St. George campus boasts a diverse range of Instagram-worthy spots. Here are a few suggestions on where to strike a pose:

Convocation Hall

Take advantage of the sunlight – and lack of pedestrian traffic – for a dazzling photo.

Donnelly Centre's bamboo forest

A great way to capture nature’s beauty without actually having to go outside.

University College

Strike a pensive (but cute) pose so that everyone knows you’re killing it – both academically and aesthetically.

U of T Mississauga

Natural landscapes make this the perfect place for a rugged photoshoot along one of U of T Mississauga's many hiking trails. Be warned: Your Instagram success will always be overshadowed by accounts dedicated to the ubiquitous deer at U of T Mississauga. Here’s where to go to give those doe-eyed influencers a run for their money:

Wilson Pond Bridge

Don your most fashionable hiking boots for a picturesque swamp-chic photoshoot.

Kaneff Centre

Take advantage of the Kaneff Centre’s gorgeous architectural backdrop.

Middle Road

Stroll down U of T Mississauga's Middle Road for the perfect squad photo. (That is the UTM Eagle with True Blue.)

U of T Scarborough

Over the past decade, U of T Scarborough has undergone an architectural revamp, transforming the campus into a hub of sleek, modern buildings. Whether you prefer to emphasize the old-school campus staples or the new gleaming glass structures, here are some of the campus’ most Instagram-worthy locations:

Humanities Wing boiler stacks

Look ‘smoking’ in front of the iconic U of T Scarborough boiler stacks.

The Terrace

Play peek-a-boo with the camera while enjoying a walk through the Terrace, the Science Wing patio.

Meeting Place

Strike a pose with friends (or solo) against the Meeting Place’s scenic skylight and checked tiles.

Ten terms every U of T student should know

noreen.rasbach — Tue, 27 Aug 2019 04:00:00 +0000

Ten terms every U of T student should know

noreen.rasbach Tue, 08/27/2019 - 00:00

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(photo by Ken Jones)

Topic

The first few months at the ��Ƶ can be a confusing linguistic transition for new students. You’ll learn to navigate the unique U of T vernacular soon enough, but in the meantime here’s a glossary of must-know terms for anyone new on campus.

To enrich your burgeoning U of T vocabulary, check out the video Terms U of T Freshmen Must Know by second-year U of T Mississauga student Samina Batyrova. She outlines several of the terms below in the video and more, creating a list designed to make you fluent in U of T jargon.

1. ACORN

The Accessible Campus Online Resource Network, or ACORN, is an online hub for everything you need in order to navigate and manage life at U of T. This student information service is where you enrol in courses and programs, access academic transcripts, pay your tuition and more.

2. Quercus

U of T’s Learning Management Engine is called Quercus, pronounced “qwhere-kis” – yes, your professors are saying it wrong. “Quercus” is actually the Latin genus for oak tree (which is featured on U of T’s coat of arms), though more practically it is the one-stop web interface for all your U of T courses, offering access to course readings, announcements and discussion boards.

3. TCard

Your TCard is your official student ID during your time at U of T. It is also where you can find your student number when you forget it for the umpteenth time – the number is located on the front of the card, next to the photo. Flash it proudly and get free admission into the student-geared nightclub Dance Cave, discounted movie tickets at TIFF Lightbox, entry into U of T gyms and plenty more on-campus deals.

4. U of T time

All U of T classes (and as a result, many U of T club meetings and events) start 10 minutes after the hour. This means you’ll likely spend the first 10 minutes of every class wondering where your prof is or panicking that you’re in the wrong classroom. But don’t worry – soon enough you’ll be in sync with the rest of the U of T student body (and chronically 10 minutes late to everything not U of T-related).

5. CCR

Your co-curricular record (or CCR) is a document that lists your university-certified experiences and skills. Many U of T organizations will give CCR credit as a verification of your involvement, so choose your co-curriculars wisely and curate a job interview-worthy CCR.

6. OSAP

The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) is an excellent student resource for financial aid and provides loans and grants that help finance hundreds of thousands of students’ post-secondary education. U of T also offers financial aid programs, grants and work-study opportunities for students in need of financial assistance as well as scholarships and awards.

7. Breadth requirement

Many U of T students falsely assume that because they’ve completed their program requirements, their degree requirements are also being met. Do not fall into this trap – every student needs to complete a series of breadth requirement courses unrelated to their program, a practice intended to diversify your educational experience beyond your program of study. The requirements differ between the St. George campus, U of T Scarborough and U of T Mississauga, but regardless of your campus it’s crucial to plan breadth requirement courses into your schedule.

8. CR/NCR

The CR/NCR (credit/no credit) option allows you to gain a course credit without displaying the final mark on your academic transcript. It’s a useful safety net tailor-made for breadth requirements, electives or any other nonessential course you’ve deemed a liability to your GPA.

9. Quad

What does it mean when someone asks you to meet in the Trin quad? Quads are four-sided courtyards fenced in by buildings that serve as idyllic outdoor study spots. There are gorgeous quads across all three U of T campuses, with many of the quads at the St. George campus affiliated with specific colleges (such as the Trinity College, or Trin, quad).

10. POSt

Be wary when asking another student what they study – it’s rarely a one-word answer. You may assume you’ll be choosing a single Program of Study (POSt) – but be prepared for an unexpected wealth of choices. At U of T you can choose between a specialist degree, a double major or a major with two minors.

Nine tips for getting the most out of your U of T experience

noreen.rasbach — Mon, 26 Aug 2019 04:00:00 +0000

Nine tips for getting the most out of your U of T experience

noreen.rasbach Mon, 08/26/2019 - 00:00

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(photo by Randy Landicho)

Topic

Centre for International Experience

Back To School 2019

Varsity Blues

Between acclimatizing to roommates, searching for food on a budget, trying to make lasting friendships and rushing to get to your next class on time – all while carrying what seems like 20 kilograms of textbooks on your back – the first few weeks of life at the ��Ƶ can be intimidating.

But there’s no need to panic. Whether you’re a first-year student transitioning out of high school or a fifth-year student returning from a lavish four-month summer holiday, here are nine ways to make this year as stress-free as possible.

(photo by Diana Tyszko)

1. Figure out your campus route before school starts

U of T can be difficult even for long-time students to navigate – not to mention first-year students, especially those who have never been to Toronto. To avoid the confusion, explore campus before your first day of class. Plan your route using these interactive maps of the three campuses – U of T's St. George campus, U of T Mississauga and U of T Scarborough – which are brimming with helpful tips for new students, such as information on the nearest washrooms, food spots, recycling facilities and places to lock your bike.

Commuters should consider their transit options, whether you’re commuting to the St. George campus, U of T Mississauga or U of T Scarborough. If you’re still not sure where you’ll be commuting from, familiarize yourself with U of T’s student housing resources, including emergency student housing.

2. Create a list of go-to food spots for any occasion

You’ll be grateful you did when you need to grab a quick coffee near your 9 a.m. exam or when a new friend wants to go for an impromptu lunch date. Curate your own personalized list or check out this one from U of T News, so that, regardless of your budget and taste, you’ll know a place around campus that will satisfy that craving.

In the past few years, U of T has been offering healthier, fresher, more sustainable and more diverse food choices – be sure to check out the on-campus selections, which go far beyond hot dog stands and fast food. Whether you’re at the St. George campus, U of T Mississauga or U of T Scarborough, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from.

(photo by Ken Jones)

3. Immerse yourself in the U of T community

U of T orientation week can be exciting, as well as overwhelming – campus is flocked by engineers dyed purple and someone just might whisk you away from your orientation group as part of a campus-wide scavenger hunt. Both fun and informative, orientation is a useful resource when it comes to campus life, from activities designed to make you an expert in all things U of T to your orientation leader’s helpful tips. Map out your orientation week and see what’s planned at the St. George campus, U of T Mississauga and U of T Scarborough.

First-years aren’t the only new students at U of T. International and exchange students should check out the Centre for International Experience for supports and resources – as should domestic students who are on the lookout for international opportunities.

(photo by Strategic Communications)

4. Check out U of T’s lit(erature) library scene

With more than 40 libraries, U of T’s library scene is a cache of hidden gems – for example, visit the Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library to flip through unique items such as the world’s first gay magazine. Check out U of T Libraries for resources on research projects, or to borrow the latest bestseller – a cheaper alternative to parting with $25 at a bookstore. If you prefer your books brand new, visit one of U of T’s Bookstores and complement your purchase with U of T merch that’s sure to get you excited about the upcoming school year.

(photo by Nick Iwanyshyn)

5. Show your school spirit

With 44 Varsity sports teams and literally hundreds of clubs (more than 350 recognized by the UTSU), U of T is brimming with school spirit. Cheer on the Varsity Blues or join a club – from book clubs to beatboxing, there’s something for everyone. Stay up-to-date on events around campus for new ways to engage with the U of T community.

(photo by Nick Iwanyshyn)

6. Take advantage of every student discount you can

Attention all U of T students: Your TCard comes with a ton of underused perks. Skip the fees at your local gym and drop by one of U of T’s athletic centres, located on all three campuses: St. George, U of T Mississauga and U of T Scarborough. Registered students can use the space and equipment or can de-stress with a yoga class. If you want to learn a new skill while working out, try a discounted instructional fitness class, with diverse offerings like belly dancing and parkour. Hart House also hosts a variety of creative workshops at affordable rates, from Photoshop to puppetry.

U of T offers a number of free and cheap entertainment options for your much-needed free time: Stop by the Faculty of Music for a free concert, catch a flick on-campus (St. Mike’s and Innis College both offer free film nights during the year), visit one of U of T’s art galleries or purchase discounted theatre tickets with a student ID. These deals give U of T students the chance to experience Toronto’s cultural scene without breaking the bank.

(photo by Ken Jones)

7. Take breaks for self-care

Whether you’re out partying with new friends during orientation week or struggling through stacks of readings during exam season, self-care and wellness are tri-campus priorities. For physical and mental health-related needs, visit the health and wellness centres at the St. George campus, U of T Mississauga and U of T Scarborough.

U of T offers a host of accessibility services for students with disabilities. There are a wealth of resources designed to make students’ transitions to university life as seamless as possible, located at the St. George, U of T Mississauga and U of T Scarborough campuses.

Supplement these resources with a list of the essential supports and services provided by U of T.

(photo by Student Life)

8. Don’t be afraid to ask for help

Starting at a new school – and for many of you, a new city or country – can be daunting. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from those who’ve been there. During orientation week, reach out to anyone wearing an orange “ASKme Anything” t-shirt with any questions you might have. You can also check out the askastudent blog to consult upper years and alumni on anything from tips for choosing courses to advice on whether or not to live in residence.

9. Stay connected

There’s no better way to stay in the know than keeping up with U of T News. You can follow us on Instagram, Facebook and on Twitter: tri-campus, U of T Mississauga or U of T Scarborough.

A food blogger’s guide to Toronto’s best on- and off-campus eats

noreen.rasbach — Fri, 23 Aug 2019 04:00:00 +0000

A food blogger’s guide to Toronto’s best on- and off-campus eats

noreen.rasbach Fri, 08/23/2019 - 00:00

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Food blogger and influencer Joanna Luo, an alumna of U of T Mississauga, is a connoisseur of Toronto cuisine (photo by Johnny Guatto)

Topic

Buttery hotpot. Crispy sweet-and-sour pork. Creamy strawberry shortcake. This year, ditch the go-to fast food picks and treat yourself to all the delicious and diverse food options that the ��Ƶ’s three campuses have to offer.

Food blogger and influencer Joanna Luo walks us through her favourite places to eat near U of T’s three campuses. The U of T Mississauga alumna is no stranger to the Toronto food scene. As the creator and editor-in-chief of Toronto Diary, a food blog with around 700,000 followers across its various social media channels (WeChat, Weibo, Instagram and Facebook), she is a connoisseur of Toronto cuisine.

U of T News met with Luo to solicit her expert advice on finding tasty eats around the Greater Toronto Area. Here is Luo’s curated guide to dining near the St. George campus, U of T Mississauga and U of T Scarborough.

Grey Gardens restaurant (photo by Steve Russell/Toronto Star/Getty Images)

St. George campus in downtown Toronto

Luo frequents areas like Kensington, Chinatown and Baldwin Village – all within walking distance from campus – for their wealth of budget-friendly eats. “You are so lucky if you graduate from U of T downtown,” she gushes, praising the ubiquity of good food around campus.

Hokkaido Ramen Santouka

“This brand is so popular in Japan,” Luo says of Hokkaido Ramen Santouka. With a new location that’s a 15-minute walk from campus, this is the perfect spot to try authentic Japanese cuisine.

Liuyishou Hotpot

Head to Chinatown for Luo’s go-to hotpot spot. Liuyishou Hotpot has over 1,000 locations worldwide, one of which is fortuitously close to campus at Dundas and Spadina. The restaurant serves its most popular hotpot dish with a quirky twist: an intricate cow-shaped pat of spicy butter that’s added for flavour. “[They start with a] spicy soup base…and they put the butter-cow in the pot to cool down the soup,” Luo explains.

LeTAO

People know and love Uncle Tetsu (which itself is within walking distance of U of T) – but Luo’s favourite place for Japanese cheesecake is LeTAO, one subway stop away from campus.

Grey Gardens

For students looking for a drink after a long day of classes, Luo recommends Grey Gardens in Kensington Market. The restaurant boasts upscale ambience, unique cocktails and a fully stocked wine bar. “Their food is delicious, too,” Luo adds.

While Luo recommends students venture beyond campus for meals, you don’t need to go far to eat well. U of T’s St. George campus has shifted its food platform toward options that are healthy, sustainable, diverse and delicious. Now you can get a variety of offerings, from ramen to pesto pasta and butter chicken, without ever leaving campus.

Learn more about on-campus food options on St. George campus

U of T Mississauga

Luo says that while the St. George campus is brimming with nearby restaurants, the other two campuses may require a short drive to reach the good stuff – but it’s worth the extra mileage.

Apricot Tree Café

The Apricot Tree Café is a less than ten-minute drive from campus, with delicious eats that will satisfy any craving and an open-concept kitchen where patrons can watch their food being prepared. “Their crepe is really good,” Luo says.

168 Sushi Buffet

The 168 Sushi Buffet is a popular student hangout, and for good reason. For $30 and a short 10-minute drive from campus, you can feast on all-you-can-eat sushi, as well as other delectable Japanese dishes.

French Corner Patisserie

Luo suggests you follow your sushi dinner with dessert at the nearby French Corner Patisserie. “I always go there to buy strawberry shortcake – it’s really good,” Luo raves. “The strawberries are so fresh and the cream is handmade, not just some cream you buy from the supermarket.”

U of T Mississauga students don’t need to rely on a drive for good food, however – there are tons of tasty on-campus offerings as well. From locally grown vegan dishes at Vegilicious to gluten-free Asian-fusion picks at Fusion 5, there is something to whet everybody’s appetite.

Learn more about on-campus food options at U of T Mississauga

U of T Scarborough

YuanYuan Restaurant

Luo recommends Scarborough’s YuanYuan Restaurant, located less than a 10-minute drive from campus. “Their popular dish is Tianjin-style crepes,” Luo says, explaining that these speciality crepes are made with flour and egg and filled with sauce and youtiao (strips of deep fried dough). “This is very traditional food in Tianjin,” Luo says. The dish is perfect for those seeking something unique: “The texture is crispy and a little bit sweet, a little bit spicy,” she adds.

The Old House Chinese Restaurant

The Old House is another tasty option near campus. “They are famous for their sliced fish,” Luo says. She recommends supplementing the dish with lvdagun, a popular Chinese snack that Luo describes as a “red bean rice cake.”

For those of you staying on campus, there are a host of tasty on-campus eats to accompany your off-campus outings, from curry dishes to burrito bowls and more.

Learn more about on-campus food options at U of T Scarborough

Toronto’s diverse food scene

Toronto is bursting with hidden culinary gems and nascent food phenomena just waiting to be discovered. Luo recommends the sweet-and-sour pork at Fantasy Eatery to anyone looking for eclectic eats. The piping hot pork is served in a dish of ice cubes, so the sweet-and-sour sauce instantly solidifies, creating a crispy shell for each piece of meat. “[Usually] you need to eat fried [pork] immediately,” Luo explains, “but for this dish…when it cools down and you eat it, it’s still crispy.”

Luo encourages students to take advantage of the diversity of Toronto’s culinary scene. She recalls her surprise at finding a traditional Hungarian restaurant (such as this one) where she could order beef goulash soup, after having sampled the dish in Hungary. “That’s why I really love Toronto,” she says, “because it is multicultural and you can try different countries’ food here.”

While many of Luo’s picks are meat- and carb-heavy, Toronto is full of vegan and health-conscious options. Near the St. George campus, Luo suggests Whole Foods (a 15-minute walk) for groceries, Calii Love (a 20-minute walk) for takeout and Early Bird (a 25-minute walk) for a sit-down meal. She recommends Early Bird’s eggs benedict – the Hollandaise sauce is made with beets, adding a pop of pink colour to your brunch plate. “I love this place,” Luo says. “The presentation is so beautiful…and [the food is] so healthy.”

From writing papers to writing restaurant reviews

Luo double majored in economics and history at U of T Mississauga, where she made the transition from student with a hobby to full-time food blogger. Her studies helped her navigate the media world of tight deadlines and cramped schedules: “time management is really [important] and [U of T] taught me…how to make good use of my time.”

Luo emphasizes the importance of considering the cultural and historical narratives behind the food you eat, and is grateful that her time studying history has made her a more mindful eater. She recalls blogging about a food market in Korea’s Jeju Island where she sampled omegi-tteok, a type of Korean rice cake native to the region. Learning about the snack’s history shaped the story Luo shared with her followers beyond the food’s taste and presentation.

“A long time ago, the Jeju people in Korea were so poor…[that they] had no money to buy rice,” Luo explains, “so they used other food materials to [create] this snack”. Omegi-tteok is made using millet, which, unlike rice, can be cultivated locally despite Jeju’s rocky terrain and harsh climate. Luo aims to continue telling the stories behind the food she promotes and hopes to inspire others to consider the implications of what they consume.

When asked what her go-to food place was as a U of T Mississauga student, Luo laughs and answers, “to be honest, Tim Hortons”. For her, the coffee shop’s cheapness holds its allure: “I liked to order the chicken noodle soup combo, with sweet tea…and a muffin – so cheap.”

While many students similarly rely on economical staples for the bulk of their on-campus sustenance, Luo encourages students to break that habit this year and take full advantage of the GTA’s booming food scene.

Read last year's picks by food writer and CBC Metro Morning contriubutor Suresh Doss

#UofTBackToSchool: 12 things every new student should know

noreen.rasbach — Fri, 23 Aug 2019 04:00:00 +0000

#UofTBackToSchool: 12 things every new student should know

noreen.rasbach Fri, 08/23/2019 - 00:00

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(photo by Caz Zyvatkauskas)

Topic

Anti-Racism & Cultural Diversity Office

Sexual Violence Prevention & Support Centre

Health & Wellness Centre

Accessibility

Centre for International Experience

International Students

Health & Wellness Centre (St. George campus)

It’s easy to get caught up in the fast pace of life at the ��Ƶ, especially as a new student. Be sure to brush up on these 12 essential campus supports and services ranging from health care to gender diversity before beginning the school year.

Safety

U of T provides many safety resources, including instructions to register for U of T’s 24-hour emergency alert system. U of T also provides emergency housing services, as well as student food banks on the St. George campus in downtown Toronto, U of T Mississauga and U of T Scarborough.

You can also visit the Sexual Violence Prevention & Support Centre for information, resources and workshops. If you are a victim of sexual violence or assault, you are encouraged to contact or visit the centre.

Health and wellness

It’s critical to practise self-care throughout the school year. There are numerous on-campus options for health care. Check out the university’s health and wellness centres for prescriptions, medical care and check-ups.

Health & Counselling Centre (U of T Mississauga)

Health & Wellness Centre (U of T Scarborough)

These centres are also excellent resources for mental health support. All three campuses offer services, including individual psychotherapy, group therapy and same-day counselling. If you need immediate help, you can call the Good 2 Talk Student Helpline, the Gerstein Centre Crisis Line or one of many suicide prevention helplines, chats and texting support services.

Other mental health resources include a walk-in mental health clinic that offers drop-in counselling to students and is located only a 10-minute walk from the St. George campus.

Accessibility

U of T is proud to provide a host of student accessibility services in and out of the classroom. Learn more about the diverse array of accessibility services offered by U of T.

Accessibility Services (St. George campus)

Accessibility Services (U of T Mississauga)

AccessAbility Services (U of T Scarborough)

Gender and sexual diversity

For LGBTQ resources, workshops and events, visit the tri-campus Sexual & Gender Diversity Office’s website. To get involved in the community, check out U of T initiatives such as Positive Space and OUT@UTM or explore more specialized programming such as Que(e)rying Religion.

The Centre for Women and Trans People is an excellent resource for intersectional feminist programming, as well as for providing a safe and harassment-free space for women and trans individuals. Trans students can find essential resources and information, such as how to change your name on official U of T documentation or the locations of all-gender washrooms on campus, here.

Indigenous students

Students hoping to explore and connect with their Indigenous identity can visit First Nations House and the new Indigenous U of T website for supports, events and resources. All members of the U of T community are welcome.

Check out the U of T Mississauga Indigenous Centre or the U of T Scarborough Indigenous Outreach Program for unique programming such as weekly smudge ceremonies, Indigenous film nights and moderated nature walks.

All three campuses offer Indigenous learning opportunities and celebrations accompanied by the knowledge and support of an on-campus Indigenous Elder-in-Residence.

Equity services

As the largest university in the world’s most multicultural city, U of T has taken many strides toward maintaining a diverse, equitable and representative campus, such as its initiative to increase equity and diversity in research and innovation. For more information about supports and resources, visit U of T’s Anti-Racism & Cultural Diversity Office or one of its tri-campus Equity Offices.

Multi-faith services

The university offers several on-campus multi-faith locations, as well as on-campus chaplains and resources for religious accommodations.

For multi-faith prayer and meditation space, faith-based counselling, research opportunities, information on religious retreats and more, visit one of the tri-campus Multi-Faith Centres.

Multi-Faith Centre (St. George campus)

Multi-Faith Spaces (U of T Mississauga)

Multi-Faith Engagement (U of T Scarborough)

International students

Whether you came from abroad to study at U of T or are a domestic student hoping for an international study opportunity, supports and services regarding your international experience are readily available at all three campuses.

Centre for International Experience (St. George campus)

International Education Centre (U of T Mississauga)

International Student Centre (U of T Scarborough)

Financial services

Between scholarships, bursaries and grants, U of T offers a wide range of financial services and supports to students. Learn more about getting financial aid or securing a scholarship, many of which are offered through your college or faculty.

Academic success

Slogging through piles of readings or writing a 3,000-word paper may seem like lonely work, but you don’t have to do it alone. Head over to the Sid Smith Commons to join a Recognized Study Group at the St. George campus or a Facilitated Study Group at U of T Mississauga or Scarborough and ace your next test with the help of your peers.

Alternatively, tackle that seemingly impossible paper at one of U of T’s 14 writing centres located across all three campuses. For more resources and tools for refining your study skills, improving time management and more, visit one of the tri-campus centres for academic support.

Academic Success Centre (St. George campus)

Robert Gillespie Academic Skills Centre (U of T Mississauga)

Academic Advising & Career Centre (U of T Scarborough)

Family services

U of T is devoted to meeting the needs of its diverse network of students and families through its Family Care Office, which offers resources such as family care counselling and suggests child care options near campus. U of T provides further on-campus resources for students with children, such as Robarts Library’s family study space. Resources are also available for LGBTQ parents.

Stay in the know

The easiest way to stay connected with U of T news, events and up-to-date information is by following U of T on social media.

Twitter, Instagram or Facebook (Tri-campus)

Twitter, Instagram or Facebook (U of T Mississauga)

Twitter, Instagram or Facebook (U of T Scarborough)

If social media’s not your thing, find one of the many ASKme booths around campus or consult anyone wearing an orange “ASKme” shirt. If you want a question answered without leaving the house, ask any U of T-related question online or explore other resources such as the U of T Student Life Offices, U of T Mississauga’s Centre for Student Engagement or U of T Scarborough’s Department of Student Life.

You can also stay in the know by picking up a copy of a campus newspaper such as The Varsity, The Medium or your college or faculty’s newspaper.

Also, be sure to check out U of T News for the latest news about the university.

Craft beer sampling and wellness workouts: Check out these August events

Romi Levine — Wed, 31 Jul 2019 04:00:00 +0000

Craft beer sampling and wellness workouts: Check out these August events

Romi Levine Wed, 07/31/2019 - 00:00

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Take an outdoor yoga class this August at U of T Mississauga (photo by Rui Dias via Pexels)

Centre for International Experience

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City & Culture

Soldiers' Tower

Health & Wellness Centre

Family Care Centre

School of Cities

The new school year might be just around the corner, but you don’t need to get bogged down by textbooks just yet. Spend August taking advantage of the many events happening at all three ��Ƶ campuses and in and around the GTA, from sampling brews at the Hart House Craft Beer Festival to white water rafting with U of T Scarborough.

You can also use this final summer month to prepare for the coming semester. From drop-in yoga to a Health & Wellness Facebook livestream, all three campuses offer opportunities to garner tools for practising self-care throughout the school year.

Finish your summer strong with these August events.

Aug. 1

The Hart House Craft Beer Festival is back, featuring more brews than ever before. Head to the Hart House quad for beer sampling, prizes and all-you-can-eat barbecue (as well as a selection of vegan options). Student tickets are discounted at $34.95.

Aug. 5

Visit the historic Soldiers’ Tower and watch world-renowned carillonneur Tin-Shi Tam play the U of T carillon’s 51 bells. Enjoy the outdoor seating and the unique musical experience with free admission.

Aug. 7

If the summer holidays have you itching to learn something new, stop by U of T Scarborough for weekly drop-in ukulele sessions, every Wednesday from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Everyone is welcome, from ukulele aficionados to total beginners.

Check out Cities by Design: The Future of Urban Mobility to examine how transportation infrastructure affects the way Torontonians live and move within the city. Hear Shoshanna Saxe, an assistant professor of civil and mineral engineering, speak about transportation infrastructure, and William Denning of Walmer Consulting on the economics of providing transit services.

Aug. 8

Drop in to Beyond Books, a talk on how to optimally use U of T’s 44 libraries as a grad student, including information on research resources and digital services.

Exhausted by a fruitless job hunt? The LinkedIn Lab focuses on refining your LinkedIn profile to attract potential employers and help you score that coveted job interview. Located at U of T’s Career Centre, this workshop will help you navigate social media and personal branding strategies and integrate them into your career networking practice. Register for the workshop on Aug. 8 or Aug. 30.

Aug. 14

The third annual Smarti Gras at U of T Mississauga is this summer’s hot ticket event celebrating undergraduate research. The event will feature top students’ presentations on diverse research topics – along with ice cream, music and a barbecue lunch.

Aug. 15

Nothing says peaceful more than a free half-hour session of outdoor mindful yoga. Stop by U of T Mississauga on any Thursday in August to de-stress, connect with the outdoors and learn some new poses.

Aug. 21

U of T parents and their children are invited on a walk through Riverdale Farm, hosted by the Family Care Office. Register for this unique opportunity to spot feathery and furry farm animals, while forging new friendships.

Aug. 22

Summer’s almost over – have you checked everything off your summer bucket list? If not, join the U of T Scarborough community for a white water rafting expedition. Spend the final days of summer camping and making memories at the scenic Wilderness Tours Resort. Students can register for the trip, which takes place from Aug. 22 to 24, for only $150.

Aug. 23

Join fellow fossil lovers for this year’s Canadian Paleontology Conference. Hosted by U of T Mississauga, the conference will run from Aug. 23 to 25 and tickets can be purchased for as little as $20.

Aug. 25

For those looking for a last-minute place to stay during the school year, there’s no need to panic. Head over to the Student Success Centre for the final housing fair before orientation, where students can network with landlords and potential roommates.

Anyone who thinks raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens are worth celebrating – and singing about – should stop by the Hart House East Common Room for the Hart House Chorus’s free showcase, titled A Few of Our Favourite Things.

Aug. 26

Spread your metaphorical wings at Social Butterflies: Reclaiming the Positive Power of Social Networks. Michael Sanders’ lecture aims to harness the hyper-sociality of the modern social media moment to create a space of positivity, connectivity and happiness. Registration is $32 and includes a hardcover copy of Sanders’s book, Social Butterflies.

Aug. 29

Calling all new students: Staff from U of T Health & Wellness are hosting a live stream to answer the top ten questions asked by students during orientation and over the first few weeks of university. Watch the presentation live on Facebook.

Aug. 31

Undergraduate residence move-in days begin for all students living at U of T Mississauga, U of T Scarborough and Loretto College on the downtown Toronto campus. If you’re moving on this day – good luck!

International and exchange students are welcome to drop by the Centre for International Experience (CIE) Services Expo, where they can learn about the resources and supports available to them, including information about phone plans, banking and more.

End the summer on an academic note with the one-day conference, Invisible Challenges in Medicine. Listen to keynote speeches and attend workshops that will spotlight discrimination in the medical field and spark a dialogue around promoting equity in clinical settings. Tickets are $5 and lunch is provided.

Rooftop gardening and Toronto Fringe Festival: Check out these July events

Romi Levine — Tue, 02 Jul 2019 14:20:16 +0000

Rooftop gardening and Toronto Fringe Festival: Check out these July events

Romi Levine Tue, 07/02/2019 - 10:20

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Spend a Thursday afternoon gardening on a U of T Scarborough rooftop this July (photo by Nick Iwanyshyn)

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Dunlap Institute for Astronomy & Astrophysics

Alumni

Faculty of Music

Hart House

John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture

Ontario Institute for Studies in Education

With convocation behind us, the ��Ƶ has once again undergone its seasonal transition from a bustling hub of activity into a more relaxed space. Take advantage of this quiet(er) time to participate in the many events campus has to offer during the month of July.

The Toronto Fringe Festival is in full swing this month and several U of T theatres are prominent venues, including the Robert Gill Theatre, the Helen Gardiner Phelan Playhouse and the George Ignatieff Theatre. This year’s Fringe lineup is also replete with U of T students and alumni – so be sure to show your support for U of T talent this month for only $13 a ticket.

Or, if nurturing a green thumb is more your thing, learn to grow your own vegetables at the Instructional Centre’s scenic rooftop garden at U of T Scarborough.

Here is just a snapshot of the various events happening in and around U of T in July:

July 4

Kick off the 2019 Toronto Fringe Festival with News Play, a comedy about chasing success in the elusive print news industry. Created by U of T alumnus and eight-time Fringe veteran Madeleine Brown, the play was influenced by Brown’s own time working as a newspaper editor at U of T Mississauga’s The Medium. Stop by the Annex Theatre from July 4-14 to celebrate – and lament – the joys of working in publishing.

July 6

The Fringe Festival’s Above & Beyond features a full cast of U of T alumni, including producer Angela Sun, director Rebecca Ballarin, set/costume designer Jules Mendoza, sound designer Frank Incer and actor Francis Masaba. Catch this workplace comedy about two millennial women navigating office politics from July 4-13 at U of T’s Robert Gill Theatre.

July 7

See the Toronto Fringe play Every Silver Lining from July 4-13 at the Al Green Theatre. Co-created and co-produced by – and co-starring – alumna Laura Piccinin, this dramedy-slash-musical intersects the hopefulness of youth with the hopelessness of disease to construct a poignant coming-of-age story about resilience.

July 8

The John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design hosts Bits & Bytes, a youth workshop on the fundamentals of urban design and landscape architecture. Students and staff are welcome to bring their children aged nine to 11 for a week of architecture-based programming.

July 9

Join theatre troupe Tita Collective, the self-styled “Spice Girls of Comedy with a Filipina twist” and winners of the Toronto Sketchfest 2019 Producers Pick, for Fringe play Tita Jokes, which is co-created, co-produced and performed by jazz musician and U of T Faculty of Music grad Belinda Corpuz. Catch this comedy sketch revue from July 4-14 at the Tarragon Theatre Mainspace.

July 10

Get acquainted with U of T Mississauga Assistant Professor Steven Chatfield – as well as with the various medicinal plants on campus – with Wicked Plants, this summer’s Walk with your Professor event. All members of the U of T community are invited to attend this informative nature walk.

July 11

Gather in the Great Hall to hear the Hart House Singers belt out a stirring musical medley in their showcase Journeys: Songs of Travel and Discovery. Admission is free.

July 12

Join your fellow graduates for the second Grad Escape of 2019 – an evening of Shakespeare in High Park featuring the Bard’s light-hearted classic Much Ado About Nothing.

July 13

Enjoy the beautiful summer weather with weekly rooftop gardening sessions scheduled every Thursday afternoon. Learn to grow your own vegetables in the Instructional Centre’s scenic rooftop garden at U of T Scarborough.

Or, if you prefer eating the food to cultivating it, stop by for a drop-in weekly lunch and the opportunity to taste the fresh produce instead.

July 14

Kevin Vidal, from the hit musical Come From Away, directs Toronto Fringe’s Ouvrez la Porte, Fermez la Bouche. This compelling story about communication and vulnerability runs at U of T’s Helen Gardiner Phelan Playhouse from July 4-14.

The cast of Tita Jokes, including U of T's Belinda Corpuz (left), Ellie Posadas, Maricris Rivera, Alia Rasul, Isabel Kanaan (photo by Tyra Sweet)

July 16

View In & Out of Saskatchewan, a nuanced depiction of Saskatchewan on display at the U of T Art Centre until July 27. Experience this unique rendering of the artistic journey between urban centres and rural spaces through a varied collection of artwork curated by Kate Whiteway.

Catch a weekly drop-in tour of U of T’s featured summer art exhibitions every Tuesday at 2 p.m.

July 18

Join your peers for the third grad escape of 2019 – a board game night at Bampot House of Tea, including food, tea and a spirited round of Cards Against Humanity.

July 20

Celebrate the 50^th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing at Space Time, a lunar-themed event hosted by the Dunlap Institute for Astronomy & Astrophysics. With moon-themed games and engaging talks by astronomers, there will be something for every space enthusiast.

July 24

Register now for A Little Touch of the Caribbean, a two-part event that includes a Caribbean dance workout followed by a lunch of authentic Jamaican cuisine. Listen to steelpan music while learning about Caribbean culture at this Caribana-inspired celebration, which will take place in the U of T Mississauga Student Centre. Free with registration.

July 26

Attend the 2019 OISE Summer Institute conference on the theme of Media & Digital Literacy Education for Social Justice. This two-day session offers workshops and discussions designed to refine participants’ digital media literacy skills, as well as strategies for practising social justice in the classroom.

July 27

If you’ve been struggling to find a place to stay during the upcoming school year – or a roommate to stay with – the U of T Housing Fair is a must. Located at the Student Success Centre, this event brings together students and landlords along with all the housing resources U of T has to offer.

July 30

Take time during your relaxing summer break to get a head start on developing strategies for handling school-year stress. The Academic Success Centre offers a workshop on managing exam anxiety, as well as other helpful workshops for effectively managing procrastination, motivation and stress. Enrol to ensure that this school year is full of success – as well as self-care.

July 31

For fresh produce from local farmers, visit U of T Scarborough’s weekly f armers’ market. Whether your appetite is for fruits, meats, sweets or carbs, the market will satisfy all your Wednesday afternoon cravings throughout the summer.

U of T researcher develops smartphone app to combat memory loss: CTV News

Christopher.Sorensen — Fri, 28 Jun 2019 16:13:13 +0000

U of T researcher develops smartphone app to combat memory loss: CTV News

Christopher.Sorensen Fri, 06/28/2019 - 12:13

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(photo by Diana Tyszko)

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