The Ontario - 195.1

WELCOME TO U OF G!

WHAT’S GUELPH 101?

GUELPH 101 is your starting point for all things Guelph! Whether you’re in your first year or your last, this special issue of The Ontarion has everything you need to make the most of this year!

IN THIS SPECIAL ISSUE you’ll find a variety of resources, including maps, health and wellness info, adulting tips, a to-do list, and much, much more!

WHY SHOULD I CARE?

WE ARE INDEPENDENT. Because we are funded primarily by student fees, we work for you and nobody else. We report stories that you need to know, even if they might ruffle a few feathers.

WE TEACH YOU SKILLS and help you build a resume with real-world experience. Whether it’s writing, finance, graphics, or research, we can help you get a head start in a fun and supportive environment.

WHAT’S THE ONTARION?

THE ONTARION is your student newspaper, creating and publishing engaging content and covering local news.

As a non-profit, we’re not here to make money. We’re here to serve the U of G community by making it easy to find the stuff you need to know You can find diverse media covering all things U of G through The Ontarion. The best part? If we don’t have it, you can make it. We’ll show you how!

A NEWSPAPER in 2023? We believe that media literacy is more important now than ever before. We believe that you don’t need to be a journalist to benefit from participating in a newspaper. By volunteering in our newsroom you can become a much more savvy consumer of news and have a better chance of spotting fake news.

WHAT CAN I DO?

READ. Pick up the paper. Visit our website. Follow our social media. Be engaged with what’s going on around you.

It benefits both you and your community.

WRITE ANGRY LETTERS. Seriously, if you don’t like what you see, tell us (but we like compliments too)! Write a letter to the editor. If you think we can do better, let us know. Or make the content you want to see.

It’s your paper after all.

VOLUNTEER. The heart of The Ontarion is our student volunteers. Without volunteers there would be no Ontarion. If you’ve ever wanted to be a part of something big, The Ontarion is your chance! Our volunteers create almost everything you see in print and online. Many have little experience when they join, but that changes quickly in our fun and supportive newsroom. We would love to see you at a volunteer meeting or info session soon!

 t heo n t arion .c om/ v olu nteer

TABLE OF CONTENTS

WELCOME

4 & 5. Welcome letters

5. We Make The Ontarion

UNIVERSITY 101

6. CSA 101: Getting to know the Central Student Association

7. Time management 101: Hacking your time to ease your stress

8. Study tips 101: How to actually remember what you’ve learned

9. Roommates 101: Roommates for life

10. Dorm decor 101: How to make your dorm a little more cozy

11. Living in Canada 101: The international students’ guide to navigating campus resources

12. Making friends 101: Want to grab a coffee after?

13. Parking 101: A guide for storing your large metal box close to class

14. Clubs 101: A look at some of U of G’s on-campus clubs

15. Club Quiz

16. Sensational sculptures 101: Getting to know U of G's permanent residents

17. Multifaith 101: Celebrating spirituality as a multi-faith campus

18. Mature students 101: Finding your people

19. 101 things to do before you graduate 21. Inflation 101: Budgeting during these tough times 22. Nature 101: Guelph’s Parks 23. Fire safety 101: How to avoid getting burned

Transit 101: How to get around 25. TheCannon 101: Navigating the website that’ll be your new best friend 27 & 30. A-Z Resources 28 & 29. Campus Map 32. Thrifting 101: Shifting to thrifting 33. Cannabis 101: A guide for the canna-curious

LGBTQ+ 101: A guide to being queer in first year

Fashion 101: Five essential back-to-school items

Nightlife 101: Different spaces, different vibes

Safer sex 101: Choose your fighter

FUN STUFF

WELCOME LETTERS

Welcome to the 2023-2024 academic year at the University of Guelph!

Whether you are a new student just starting your journey with us, or you are coming back to campus to continue your studies – I am delighted that you are here with us.

The University of Guelph is one of Canada’s top comprehensive universities. Our rigorous scholarship, unparalleled creativity, and solution-oriented discovery all contribute to our uniqueness as a University.

But there is one other aspect of our University that always stands out for me – our student experience. Students are at the heart of everything we do. At the U of G, you will have the opportunity to learn from our world-renowned faculty, gain real-world experience, and become a part of

engage in the many activities across campus available to you and designed to foster a sense of belonging and enhance your student experience.

Whether you are just at the beginning of your academic program or are nearing graduation, the Student Affairs team offers a range of programs and services which aim to make your life as a Gryphon truly inspiring and rewarding. As dedicated members of our community, the Student Affairs team strives to embody and promote the core Gryphon values of being engaged, authentic, respectful, caring and determined.

Welcome students, both new and returning!

As a proud member of the Gryphon community, and on behalf of the Student Affairs team, I am excited to invite you all to join me in making the 2023-2024 academic year one that we can all be proud of. I encourage you to actively

We encourage you to discover your own Gryphon spirit by being an engaged student. Join a club, volunteer, get involved in student government or contribute within your residence community. Check out the many and varied programmes offered through the fitness and recreation offerings at Gryphon Athletics. Explore and join one of the many campus-based clubs accredited through the Central Students Association. Get involved in your academic college life. Show your spirit and cheer for our varsity athletes.

We encourage you to be authentic. At

Welcome new and returning Gryphons!

I am looking forward to seeing U of G students around town this year as the university continues to attract great minds and talents to Guelph. Students bring a youthful energy to our city and help make us a diverse and thriving community.

While you’re here, you’re not only a Gryphon – you’re also a Guelphite.

I encourage you to explore all that Guelph has to offer beyond campus. Visit guelph.ca for all the information you need about transit, parks, recreation facilities, rules about waste collection and parking, and much more. You can also follow me on Instagram or Facebook to learn about what’s going on in our great

our community.

Life at our University goes far beyond the classroom. As you get settled in this year, I encourage you to explore your interests, connect with those around you, and make your mark on our community. Take part in our clubs, athletics and sports teams, world-class research collaborations, and countless other opportunities. Explore our campuses as well as local experiences found in the City of Guelph.

Always remember, you are never alone at U of G. Your professors, fellow students, and student wellness staff are all here to support you on your journey. If you are a new U of G student, visit STARTonline.ca to learn more about your courses, resources, student opportunities and Orientation Week activities.

You belong at our University. With a diverse range of academic programs and

U of G, we want you to feel empowered to be your true self, while actively engaging in activities that provide opportunities for you to develop and express your personal values and perspectives. Check out the many programmes offered by the team in Student Experience.

While we strive for your experience to be positive, it's important to acknowledge that challenges may arise. We offer a wide range of support programs to assist you if you encounter any difficulties. Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask for help if you are struggling academically or personally. Speak to your program counsellor or residence assistant, connect with the Undergraduate Academic Information Centre (UAIC), the Library’s Learning Commons, or call Student Wellness Services if you wish to connect with a counsellor or schedule an appointment with the medical team in the Health Clinic. As Gryphons we are respectful and caring, so if you find yourself struggling, tell someone…speak to another Gryphon, student, or employee, who will listen with an empathetic ear and will guide you to the support you need. The Student Affairs team is determined to help

student experiences, our University takes pride in fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. No matter your interests, there is a place for you to learn, grow, and pursue your passion at U of G. We are so glad to have you join us, and we are glad you decided to become a Gryphon. You can reach me on Twitter at @UofGPresident or by email at president@ uoguelph.ca. I look forward to seeing you on campus, and I wish you the very best in the 2023-2024 academic year.

Warm regards,

students achieve their goals.

For information about the many programs and services offered by Student Affairs visit www.uoguelph.ca/studentaffairs.

Be sure to also visit www.uoguelph.ca/ studentexperience to find ways to make the most of your U of G experience, and while you’re checking out the Student Experience site, try clicking on the GryphLife button to explore hundreds of clubs, activities and events.

As Gryphons, we are engaged, authentic, respectful, caring and determined. Together, we improve life for ourselves and others, and I can’t wait to see what we accomplish as a community this year!

city, or email mayor@guelph.ca with questions or comments.

Welcome to Guelph!

All the best for a fantastic year.

Sincerely,

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Dear Reader,

On behalf of The Ontarion, I would like to welcome you back to the University of Guelph for the fall semester.

Last year, we had our first full in-person school year since the COVID-19 pandemic. It feels like things are truly getting back to normal. Events and classes are back to being held in an in-person format and students are back on campus in abundance. Everything is starting to have the buzz of life again.

The paper in your hands is our Guelph 101 issue. This issue serves as a back-to-school guide for new and returning students

that want to learn about campus life and the city they are studying in. It’s a handbook for having the best university experience, while remaining safe and being aware of the resources available to you while you’re at U of G.

Since 1951, The Ontarion has been the University of Guelph’s independent campus newspaper. We’re a non-profit organization that covers news while providing students and community members with lifelong skills through valuable experience opportunities. We’ve covered things like Joni Mitchell playing in Guelph and Prime Ministers visiting the Royal City. And we’re still dedicated to providing that

great coverage in our print and online issues.

We’ve covered our fair share of student protests, sporting events, and social issues that matter to the campus community. This summer, we’ve begun work on a special project that will allow the public to view the decades worth campus coverage through archival issues from The Ontarion This will be a lengthy process, as it is over 70 years of coverage, but until then we’ll be sharing special archival pieces with our audience in our new recurring From The Archives segment in our newspapers.

During this time of uncertainty in the journalism industry, independent journalism is

more important than ever. The Ontarion is committed to providing factually accurate news that matters to our community. With the ever changing landscape of news media, we are proud to be consistent and are happy to continue to provide news to the campus community through print.

The Ontarion office, located on the second floor of the University Centre in UC 264, is open to anyone who wants to stop by. If you’re interested in volunteering, have a story tip, or are interested in learning more about us, please feel free to pop in. Alternatively, you can reach out to us through email or see us at any of our tabling events on campus.

The 2023-2024 school year has just begun and is looking promising. The bar is higher and we’re ready to take everything to the next level. I’m excited for my second year with The Ontarion to be even better than my first and I’m excited to be continuing creating newspapers that matter and make a difference in the Guelph community. So go out, get it done and make this year the one that matters and makes a difference in your life.

Sincerely,

WE MAKE THE ONTARION

Taylor graduated from Mohawk College’s journalism program in 2019. She’s been featured in publications like GuelphToday and The Hamilton Spectator. You can often find Taylor having a pint at Jimmy Jazz, attending sweaty rock shows at the Guelph Concert Theatre or watching Big Brother with her partner and her cat.

Paige graduated from Sheridan College Honours Bachelor of Illustration program in 2020. She also works as a freelance editorial illustrator. In her spare time she enjoys prowling through thrift stores and watching horrible reality TV.

Mariana is in her third year in the marketing management program here at U of G. She is currently doing her co-op here at The Ontarion and has loved every second of it. When she has time off she's most likely shopping, reading or scrolling through pinterest.

Laurie received her CPA designation and Laurentian University HB Comm degree in 2017. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, hiking nature trails, cooking, and dining out at various restaurants.

A U of G grad, Patrick first got involved with The Ontarion in by volunteering for the Board of Directors where he enjoyed using his Human Resources Management education. He enjoys spending time with animals, playing board games and rock climbing.

CSA 101: Getting to know the Central Student Association

A look at the executive team and what they do for students

Have you ever wondered how the students have their voices heard and make a difference on campus? If so, you might have heard about the Central Student Association.

The Central Student Association (CSA) offers students a variety of services. From the Safewalk Program, to the CSA Bike Centre and the Student Help and Advocacy Centre, (SHAC),, the CSA is the organization that is run with the students in mind.

Shaima Alam, president of the CSA spoke with The Ontarion about the organization.

“We are the student union,” she said. “If anything wants to change, it has to be done as a group… Every single piece of it. It's all to support the success of students.”

Alam’s work as president includes maintaining and upholding the CSA mandate, ensuring CSA operations run smoothly and working as the chair of different committees like the Student Health and Dental Plan Committee and the GSA/CSA Transit Committee.

Alam said she sees this role as one that provides the link between the students and CSA.

“My supervisor is all the students and the board,” she said. “But, it's just kind of making sure as a whole that we're going towards the student's collective interest.”

Alam also works with the executive directors to ensure the CSA is working with that shared goal of advocacy in mind.

The executive team is comprised of three other elected students who work with the CSA to advocate for students. Those positions are VP External, VP Academic and VP Student Affairs.

The VP Academic for the 2023-2024 school year is Jun Lee. His role includes ensuring that all students are receiving their academic rights, advocating for accessibility and knowing about financial supports available and being aware of the Residential Tenancies Act and City of Guelph bylaws to help students

In addition to that, he also sits on a lot of committees and supervises SHAC.

“He's really good at being like, 'this is what I see. This is what's wrong. This is what needs to happen',” Alam said.

The VP External for this school year is Samar Tariq. She works to defend the rights of undergraduate students and works on things like environmental and social campaigns on campus, while also being aware of the things going on in the government that can make a difference in the lives of students.

“Our big advocacy and campaigns are all external stuff,” Alam said. “That's like the things that are like a movement. Like, trying to lower tuition costs just in general. Like, that's a movement for sure, and there's a lot of things that branches out from there.”

The VP External also oversees the CSA Bike Centre, the CSA FoodBank and provides bus passes for students. They work with various members of different organizations like Wellington Water Watchers, OPSEU and the Guelph District Labour Council.

As of Sept. 2023, the role of VP Student Experience has not been filled. This role includes planning for events, running social media, supervising the SafeWalk program, working with CSA clubs and advocating for

marginalized students.

A large part of the CSA’s advocacy work is the services they provide on campus.

Alam explained the CSA Bike Centre is a place where students can learn to fix their bicycles. Students have to pay for any parts they may need, but tools are available at no charge and staff members can help students learn how to fix minor problems. Alam also said this works with their sustainability initiatives as bicycling is a zero emissions form of transportation.

Alam then explained the CSA FoodBank.

“The food bank explains itself as far as for people who don't have access to food to come in and be part of a place where they'll give [food] to you,” Alam said. “[Users] have appointments and we provide them with food items.”

She also touched on SHAC.

“They provide free legal services,” she said. “So we have a lawyer that comes in and you can access for free but we also have the coordinators who also know a lot.”

She added a lot of users of SHAC use it for housing and tenant rights.

However, one of the most well-known CSA programs is their SafeWalk program. The student-run program offers walk buddies for any student on campus at night who might want some support to feel extra safe. The program runs from 7:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. on regular nights, and from 10 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. during exams.

“If you’re here in the middle of night and you're like, a little scared or even just like to have someone to talk to you just so it's not so uncomfortable... You can just press

one of those red buttons on those yellow poles,” Alam said.

The CSA also runs a majority of the non-academic clubs on campus.

“We have over 200 clubs that are accredited with us,” Alam said. “So our work is like supporting these clubs, giving them resources, and then within that also falls like providing insurance for these clubs events.”

In addition to all of this, the CSA provides affordable promotional and printing services for those in need.

“That's like if you want graphic design, if you want to print posters, signage, that stuff can be accessed through there,” she said. “They also have our printing services which is our cheapest printing on campus.”

For Alam, the best part of being the CSA president is the opportunity to make a real difference in the campus community.

“None of it matters if students aren't accessing it. None of it works if students aren't saying we also agree and we can collectively take our voices to create an action,” she said.

Although there are gaps she says need to be filled, she’s excited to get down to business and help students as much as possible through the much-need supports she and the entire executive team work on.

“Every single piece of it… It's all to support the success of students,” she said. “So whether that's like, just having food or being able to find a house that's legal, or like, feeling safe at night or being able to cheap print. But even just on the basis of having fun on campus.”

To learn more about the CSA, visit csaonline.ca.

Time management 101: Hacking your time to ease your stress

From using a planner, to taking breaks, there’s lots of ways to make time for success in university

Adjusting to university life can be overwhelming as you are meeting new people, planning your schedule, becoming independent, and developing time management skills. But whether you are in first year or third year time management is a skill that everyone can continue to cultivate.

Below are 5 ways to maximize your time and avoid burnout while navigating your social, academic, and personal life.

Use a Calendar

The best way to master time management is through organization and the use of a calendar. After your first class of a course, play some music and take the time to go through the course outline, writing out the dates of all your assignments, quizzes, midterms, labs, and finals. Make it fun by choosing a different colour for each course! This way you will know when deadlines are approaching months in advance. Some people prefer paper calendars because they like crossing off each day but do whatever is right for you. If you do choose paper, post them right above your desk so that you can look at them when you are trying to decide which project to conquer next.

Use a Planner

You may think a planner and calendar are the same thing, but they are not. Your planner is going to be your brain’s best friend. You are going to use it to give your brain a break by leaving space for it to absorb actual course content rather than deadlines and test dates. The planner is more of a weekly schedule; it helps you focus on fast-approaching deadlines so that you do not get overwhelmed by a midterm that is three weeks away. It helps you focus on the present.

Basically, the planner is for you to write down all that you want to do that day. Striving for two to three tasks per day is an excellent way to stay on top of your workload. A good freebie if you feel like you are not being as productive as you would have liked is counting attending all of your classes that day as a task This can require a lot of brain power especially if you have more than three classes that day - so why not acknowledge it as a task?

Use To-Do Lists

Another way to keep on task is through to-do lists. Make two, the master and the dopamine hit list, with all the smaller tasks that take less time. On the master to-do list, you will want to write down all your ma-

jor tasks, this will be your upcoming midterms, labs, major assignments, essays etc. The smaller one will be filled with readings and mini assignments like discussion posts, 1-page reports/ reflections, Top Hat questions, textbook readings, as well as quizzes. Use two sticky notes – one for your master list and one for your minor list – each week. Aim to accomplish three tasks a day, perhaps you do one to two mini tasks and work on 1 major assignment daily.

Pro ip: If you are feeling overwhelmed it can be nice to cross off some of the smaller tasks first so that it seems like you have less to complete or that you have completed more!

Take Breaks

Make sure to take breaks!This is critical to staying on task and keeping consistent with your workload. Study in between classes so that you can have more of the evenings off. Try to check some of your small tasks off during the day so that you can work on major assignments in the evening. It is better to take a break than experience burnout. Taking breaks has genuine benefits. According to Cornell Health research, taking five to 60-minute purposeful breaks from studying not only elevates energy levels but increases efficiency and concentration. Go for coffee, chat with a friend, grab a meal, exercise, get fresh air, go for a walk to break up your studying. For example, if you’re studying in the Bull Ring you can go for five minute walks around the path that leads to South as a break every two hours. Throughout the week, attempt to have one break day where you do not have to do any studying or only partake in a reduced amount of studying. Your mind and body will thank you. Most importantly, take care of yourself, and prioritize you!

Practice Self-Reflection

Lastly, practice self-reflection. This is the best way to notice if you are starting to feel burnt out, foster balance, and dispel poor work habits. Think back on your day and note two accomplishments, two moments that made you happy and two ways you are going to improve the next day. If you did not do as well as you had hoped, there is always tomorrow. Do not waste more energy stressing about it. You've got this!

Hopefully, these tips are helpful. As long as you practice what mindfulness, balance and organization mean to you, everything will work out. Good luck with your studies and remember time management is key.

Study tips 101: How to actually remember what you’ve learned

Big brain tips for retaining information

your notes, or maybe not bothering to revise at all are all surefire ways to fail in university.

So what should you do instead? Figuring out your personal study style and what works for you takes some time. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try out many different techniques and methods before finding what works for you. Here are some great study tips to help you get started:

Find a good study spot and gatekeep it

This one will take lots of experimentation. There are several great study spots across campus to check out. Aside from the library, try the Science Complex, the Bullring or Starbucks. Once you find a spot where you can focus and get deep into studying, don’t let everyone know about it.

It can be very distracting when friends keep dropping by to chat when you're trying to be productive. I suggest making time to meet up with them during your breaks or schedule separate time to study in groups.

Active recall is your best friend

flashcards, taking practice tests and brain dumping to test yourself on your knowledge.

This is an evidence-based technique that will ensure you retain the information long-term and actually understand what you're learning, which is key for doing well on university exams.

Take classes you actually enjoy

This one might seem obvious but it’s very common for students to take classes simply because they are labeled as easy and low effort. Though this can be helpful to have during a difficult course load, it’s also important that you take courses you're genuinely interested in.

Your interest in what you’re learning will directly correlate with how much effort you're willing to put in. It also makes studying and going to class a lot more fun and something to look forward to rather than a chore.

Go to Supported Learning Groups

them as an opportunity to focus on topics you’re less confident in.

SLGs are very helpful because they are led by students who have already taken the course and can give you some great insight. It’s also an excellent opportunity to meet new people taking the same classes as you and make some new friends in a smaller group setting.

Schedule in breaks and downtime

Once the semester gets busy, and you're suddenly drowning in assignments and midterms, finding time to relax seems impossible. That’s why scheduling in time to relax and do something you enjoy is so important.

I’m sure you’ve heard many times that the same techniques you used to study in high school won’t

work in university. Unfortunately, it’s true. Frantically cramming the night before a test, rereading

Active recall is a method of studying that requires actively retrieving material rather than passively reviewing or reading your notes. This can be done through

Supported Learning Groups, (SLGs), are free study sessions led by an upper year student. They offer academic support and review lecture concepts. You can go to a session every week or drop in as needed. It’s a chance to ask questions, work together in groups to share your knowledge and use

Whether it’s in a physical planner or google calendar, block off time in the week to do something fun like hanging out with friends, watching a movie or catching up on your favourite show. During a stressful period, intentional time off will help you feel more focused and rested, which in turn will prevent burn out.

Hopefully, some of these tips are helpful for you. Remember, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed at the beginning and it’ll take time to figure out what works best for you. Just keep up the good work, remember these study tips and you’ll be fine!

Roommates 101: Roommates for life

AADYA

Living on-campus in your first year is one of the most fun and amazing experiences that you are going to have as new university students, but here are some tips and tricks that are going to make not only yours, but also the experience of the people living around you, a memorable one.

Having a roommate can seem scary and intimidating, but at the same time, what you need to remember is that your new roommates are also feeling similar feelings as yourself, and being mindful this might just solve all your roommate problems.

Here are some ways that you can take out the best of the on-campus life for yourself and your roommate

Reach out to them before moving-in

One thing in my own experience that helped me a lot to connect with my own roommate and my suitemates was to email them on their U of G email that I got on my housing portal and take the first step in having that conversation. Being an international student, I had a lot of anxiety about living in the same space as other students, so when reaching out I told them about my favourite food, what I like to do in my space time, what’s my major and asked them about similar stuff. My roommate and I were also able to facetime each other before moving in and we talked about what we liked and what we didn’t. Having this conversation before moving in helped us all to start on the right foot!

Set boundaries

When sharing a space with another person, one of the most important things is creating the boundaries and respecting the other person’s boundaries as well. It can be especially hard to live with someone when

you don’t know them and one of the best things in such situations is to advocate for yourself and the wellbeing of your roommate, and set boundaries. Boundaries will help you and your roommates or suitemates to coexist happily, and you might even bond with them and find a friend for life.

One amazing resource for creating these boundaries and for starting this conversation is when you have to sign the roommate contract. Your Residence Assistant (RA) will send you and your roommate a document, which has various questions like: What does noise mean to the both of you? Will there be quiet hours in the common spaces at some times of the day? What does your sleep schedules look like? What do we think of guests, and/or anything else that you would like to make your roommate aware of.

Communication is the key

Sharing space with another person means communicating about what makes you feel comfortable and what makes you uncomfortable and the same for your roommate. When you feel that something is making you, or your roommate uncomfortable, in your residence environment, communicate about it. Start a conversation, One thing to keep in mind is that advocating for yourself is very important and not talking about something that is bothering you might just lead to the escalation of the problem. Creating a safe environment for yourself and your roommate to communicate is the way to go. And lastly, one thing that I always believe to keep in mind is that everyone comes from different walks of life, and might have a different perspective than yours. In such cases, I would say that you can’t control anyone else’s attitude, but you

can control yours, having a positive attitude can help your year be substantially better.

A clean room is a fun room

No one wants to clean up someone else’s mess, no matter how big or small it is. Being mindful of your own space and of the person you are living with is very important. Although this seems very straightforward, sometimes people forget the importance of it, especially when things start getting busy at university, so intentionality for having a clean space is very important. One of the keys to practicing this is to keep your side of the room clean, which can also

encourage your roommate to do the same and help you coexist with them in a more fun than stressful way.

Don’t forget to have fun

Lastly, I would say don’t forget to have fun! Fun can mean different things for everyone, sometimes just grabbing dinner, or having a movie night or getting coffee with your roommate can be relaxing and act as a de-stressors for the both of you. Connect with each other on the common things that you have and I’m sure that you will have an amazing experience living on campus this fall!

Here is how you can make your and your roommate’s experience the best when living in residence

KAPOOR

Dorm decor 101: How to make your dorm a little more cozy

Because you deserve to feel at home while you’re living in residence

Here at the University of Guelph, we have an amazing community of people and a beautiful campus to explore filled with study spots, great eats and lounge spaces that have heard all of the tea, but sometimes it can be nice to unwind in a space of your own!

Your dorm room can be a place of sanctuary for downtime and rest, a place to share secrets with friends, a place to pregame before a night out or your ultimate study spot. Whatever its use, it is an integral part of your upcoming university experience!

The University provides desks, desk lamps, desk chairs, single beds, bookshelves, cork boards, room lamps, mirrors, wardrobes, drawers, closets, towel bars, curtains, and waste containers, so these items are covered. However, if you want to personalize your room, here is a list of dorm fundamentals to maximize your dorm space and make the most of your first-year dormitory living.

Bedding/ Sheets

The best way to personalize your room is through bedding. Your bed will be the focal point of your room. It is where you sleep, study, chat with friends and relax, so it is important to choose both comfortable and tasteful bedding. You can choose a patterned set, plain set, or textured set, or if you have trouble finding something you like on your own the university is partnered with residence linens and offers sleep bundles with plenty of options for you to choose from.

However, not included in this bundle are throw pillows and blankets. Extra

pillows are useful in diversifying the role of your bed by fashioning a couch in the same space by placing extra pillows against the wall that adjoins the bed. An additional blanket is also ideal for both aesthetic purposes as well as late-night study sessions, movie nights and book binges.

A fan

Fans are essential in residence, particularly in the warmer months of fall and spring. This is a must-have in every residence building, but especially in South. The residences all have heaters but there are no air conditioners in the actual dorm rooms. Most people open their windows which will give you a slight breeze depending on the angle of your room but having a fan in residence will help keep air flowing constantly in your dorm room.

Speaker/ Headphones

Another aspect of perfecting the atmosphere of your dorm room is sound. Music adds to the ambiance of your room whether you want it to be calming acoustic, country, pop, or rap. You can also use music when studying to help cancel out noise from the hallways or lounges. The best way to do this is through noise-cancelling headphones because then you are respecting the space of other students in your residence community.

However, sometimes it is nice to take a break from being plugged in all day and in this case, a speaker playing music at a reasonable volume is perfect if you still want to listen to your favorite lyrics! When doing this remember to be cognizant of quiet hours which usually start at 1 a.m. on

Friday & Saturday and 11 p.m. every other night.

Posters & Prints

Decorating your walls is another way to personalize your room. You can do this by hanging posters of your favourite musicians, movies, or mottos. Other wall decor options include tapestries, vinyl, and other wall accents.

Photo walls are a favourite of many students because you can add to them as the year progresses. You have complete creative control over anything you choose to hang and affix to your walls, just make sure to use scotch tape rather than sticky tack and fasteners, to avoid damaging the walls for those that follow.

Mini fridge

If you are a snacker, mini fridges are essential because then you can take your leftovers home from the dining hall since Guelph has a terrific green initiative in which you can take your meals in reusable green containers to go. Mini fridges also keep your water cool or juices and other drinks you enjoy. You can also choose to customize your fridge with stickers and magnets if you wish, the Guelph bookstore has a wide variety to choose from!

Power bar

A power bar is extremely useful for all

of your chargers, extra lighting and your fridge since your room usually only comes with 2 outlets which your desk and lamps provided are usually plugged into.

Plants

An optional recommendation would be to invest in a plant or two as they help filter your dorm air naturally and allow you to practice the responsible habit of tending to it. According to Healthline, plants also boost your mood, lower stress levels, enhance your attention span and have many other therapeutic benefits.

Another light source

Lastly, another optional suggestion is an additional light source to brighten your dorm and alter your room’s aura. Sunset lamps are perfect for this because they can change colour depending on the vibe you are looking for.

They also offer impeccable lighting for your cute Polaroid photos. Salt lamps are also extremely popular along with pixie lights, it depends on the feel you are going for. Have fun with it!

The list for dorm decor could go on forever, but these are the most popular and practical decor options among the majority of students at Guelph. Hope this helps cut down your packing list and enjoy your first year, you are going to love it!

Together,

let’s welcome every new neighbour.

smile is the same in every language.

8 - 17, 2023

Together, let’s welcome every new neighbour.

A smile is the same in every language.

September 8 - 17, 2023

Living in Canada 101: The international students’ guide to navigating campus resources

A look at resources from someone who’s been there

PAULA HENRY-DURU

Moving to a new country can be very scary and speaking from experience, it can seem daunting to find information that is specifically helpful to international students. Thankfully, the University of Guelph has a wealth of resources for us and I have done my best to bring them to you in this article. Let’s dive in.

at mystudentplan.ca/uofguelph/en/mybenefits.

Mental health resources, appointments with physicians and resources for students with disabilities are available for free at the university’s Department of Student Wellness on campus. Finally, keep.meSAFE is a support program that is specifically for International and English Language Program students, and it provides access to 24/7 virtual counseling with professionals via call, chat or through their app. More information about this can be found on their website, keepmesafe.org.

Social connections

For social connections the list of resources is endless. The student-run International Student Organization hosts several events throughout the year that celebrates and embraces different cultures and encourages friendships.

Finances

The university has a lot of financial aid to offer international students and starting with scholarships, they can be found under the Student Award search in the Student Financial Services website, uoguelph.ca/ registrar/studentfinance.

There are some that are specific to certain majors or programs but a number are general to both undergraduate and graduate international students. The school also offers a way for students to pay for tuition in installments through the Financial Arrangement Request form which can be found on the Student Financial Services website.

There are also needs-based bursaries that students can apply to every semester based on financial need, although it typically requires students to have completed a certain number of credits. However, it is a great source of financial aid for upper-year students.

Health

One thing I worried a lot about was how I would pay for any medical bills if I got sick, but there was no need to worry because international students have health insurance covered under the tuition we pay.

The University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP) and the Dental Plan are components of our tuition, and between the two of them, most healthcare-related trips are insured. More details about this are on the UHIP website, uhip.ca, and questions about coverage for vision care, ambulance fees and prescription drugs can be found

They have a lounge in room 535 of the University Centre and international students can drop in to study, relax or meet new people. There is also the International Student Experience center which serves as a resource pool for international students and provides information about immigration policies, financial resources, the orientation program called START International, and a program called LINK that pairs upper-year international students with new international students.

There are also numerous clubs that cater to students from all over the world. There’s the Bangladeshi Students’ Association, The Guelph Black Students Association, the Guelph Palestinian Students Association, the University of Guelph Ukrainian Students' Club and The Caribbean Cultural Club.

There are so many more clubs on campus, and whether you want to join one based on culture or interest, it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll find somewhere to fit in. The entire list of over 200 clubs at the university can be found at gryphlife. uoguelph.ca.

Sports

The Athletic Center (AC) has a lot of sports and facilities including badminton, indoor rock climbing, basketball and an indoor running track. Access to the AC and the gym is free as long as you’re a registered student at the university and opening times, and court availability schedules are posted on their website at fitandrec.gryphons.ca. There are also additional classes

like kickboxing and yoga that students can access for an additional fee under the NRG membership pass.

Lastly, there are clubs and intramurals that students can join either for free, a deposit or for free and there are so many fun sports new students can try out. It’s a great way to meet new people, while also keeping fit and having fun.

Academics

The university’s library offers Supported Learning Groups (SLGs) for several first and second year courses, and these sessions are run by students that have taken those courses previously.

When I attended SLGs, like the one for CHEM*1040, I got to practice a lot of questions and really consolidated my knowledge about what I had learned in class. For assignments that require essays and write-ups there are student peer helpers under Writing Services in the library that can proofread and make suggestions that can improve written assignments. I booked numerous writing appointments and found them to be extremely useful for spotting errors in my work and generally improving my essay structure and organization.

There are also English language support programs offered by the library, and these services and more can be found at lib.

uoguelph.ca.

Job opportunities

For job opportunities, Experience Guelph, experienceguelph.ca, is the University’s internal website for jobs on campus and you can apply for them through that website. Opportunities posted on the site are typically part-time and positions can be in several campus departments including Hospitality Services, the Athletics Centre, or with Housing Services, however several full-time jobs are posted for the long summer break.

Additional resources can be found in the Experiential Learning Hub (ELH) and it provides assistance to students with refining their resumes, cover letters and preparing for job interviews. The ELH also organizes career fairs which provides students the opportunity to meet with hiring managers, industry professionals and job recruiters. Their website is cecs.uoguelph.ca.

Follow-up questions

Finally, for any more concerns or inquiries about what resources are available to international students here in Guelph, the University’s two International Student Advisors, Matthew Keefe and Ernest Damalie are always ready to answer questions.

They are both very responsive and have a wealth of knowledge about all things related to international students including questions about your study permit, available financial aid, programs to help students de-stress and updates about immigration policies. You can find their contact information or book an appointment with them at uoguelph.ca/studentexperience/international-student-advising.

I’m going into my fourth year now, have used most of these resources and have found them to be extremely useful during my time at Guelph. To new international students: good luck with your first year at Guelph and I really hope you can find some of these helpful too!

Making friends 101: Want to grab a coffee after?

Transitioning to University life might seem daunting, and one of the things that you might be anxious about is making friends and meeting new people during the first year of your university. But don’t worry, here are some tips and tricks to make friends as you navigate through your school year.

Go to O-week events with your roommate/suitemate/ neighbour

Orientation Week, also known as O-week is a true oncein-a-lifetime experience where you will meet amazing people from all over the campus. Your Residence Assistant, (RA), will take you to different events like the pep rally, the room burning and various fun events. This will be the time when you can chat with the people living in your

building, or randomly say hi to the person standing next to you, and you might just find yourself a lifelong friend! Pro-tip: Take the first step and start a conversation, it will never go unappreciated!

Join

a Club

One of the best ways to meet new people on-campus is to join a club. The Central Student Association, (CSA), offers more than 200+ clubs on campus which you can join on GryphLife. These clubs can act as an amazing de-stressor and socializing place where you can meet people with similar interests as you. There is something for everyone, if you are into crafts, there is an Origami club, a Korean Pop Club for students who are K-pop fans, Gryphons Read Book Club for all our literary enthusiasts and so much more! Every semester a ‘Club’s

Day’ takes place at the University Centre where you can go in-person and sign up for the clubs that interest you and enter into some amazing giveaways as well.

Volunteer

The University of Guelph offers some great volunteer opportunities to both undergraduate and graduate students. A favourite of mine is something called ‘The Project Serve Day’ when thousands of students volunteer for different activities that take place all over the city with different University Partners like the Guelph Food Bank. You can also self-register for the Student Volunteer Connections (SVC) on courselink where you can find some exciting volunteer opportunities that can help you form those meaningful connections with your community members.

Go to your Residence events

One of the best resources that you can find if you are living

On-Campus is your RA. Your RA will host different events throughout the year where you can hang out with your fellow peers and people living in your community. These events are a great opportunity to meet the people you are living with and get to know them. Ask for their Instagram, or make plans to grab dinner soon.

Say Hi! To your neighbour

Keeping your door open the first night you move in and knocking on the door of your neighbour can go a long way! It might seem daunting but trust me, the person next door is also in the same boat as you, knock on their door, say hi, grab something to eat, and you might have just made a friend for life! Say hi to your neighbour in class, ask them if they want to study together later, what their major is, and ask them if you

share any other classes.

Being safe while also making

new friends

Making friends is very important, but make sure that you are being safe while doing so. O-week is a dry event, make sure that you are not consuming any substances during that time. When starting at university, the perception of how many people are drinking is very different from re ality, the perception is that 98 per cent of students are drinking but in reality, only 78.6 per cent of students are consuming alcohol regularly. Do not consume anything that you don’t want to because of peer pressure, there are a multitude of health and wellness resources available on campus if you ever need them. Good luck with your upcoming academic year, and for the unbelievably amazing University experiences that await you this year!

Making friends at university might seem intimidating, but we've got your back

Parking 101: A guide for storing your large metal box close to class

The do’s and don'ts of parking on campus

Let’s face it, owning a car can be expensive, but if you are reading this, then you probably already knew that. Whether you are living in residence, off-campus, or you are a commuting student, cars can make the difference between getting to class 15 minutes early and meeting your professor on their way out.

I wish there was a very simple explanation for parking on campus, like, “hey just get a permit and park wherever, whenever!” but alas, it is a bit more complicated than that. So I will attempt to break down how you can go about finding parking on campus, so that you don’t end up with 50 tickets by the time you graduate.

Let’s start with the good news first. Parking is free from 6 p.m.-8 a.m. Monday-Friday, and all day on weekends in parking lots without assigned spots (watch for signage). So that means that any of your friends or family that come to visit you every weekend will get to save a few extra bucks. Plus, you can park in these parking lots overnight, except from Dec. 1 to March 31, where there are designated lots for overnight parking.

For friends and family that want to visit during the weekday. There are special visitor parking locations that allow you to pay with the paybyphone app, and others that use HONK mobile.

Now onto the important, and slightly more complex parking rules. The parking lots on campus have been divided up into the following three different colours based on their proximity to campus: Yellow, Red and Black.

Yellow parking lots are the furthest from campus, and a yellow zone permit will set you back $79 a month. These permits are sold on a first come-first serve basis and allow you to park at any of the yellow parking lots throughout the day and overnight. Unfortunately, you are not guaranteed a spot despite having a permit, and these permits can be oversubscribed by up to 35 per cent.

The next best option are the red permits. Red zone permits are also sold on a first come-first serve basis, and allow you to park much closer to campus, but this comes with an increased fee of $90.25 a month. While these permits can be oversubscribed by up to 20 per cent, they have the added benefit that if the red lots are full, you can park in spaces available in yellow lots (except for lots 14 & 19).

Both the yellow and the red lots also have an added green option, which allows you to park in EV charging locations. A yellow/ green permit will set you back $102 a month, and a red/green permit will cost you $113.25 a month. These permits allow you all the same freedoms as the respective colour permit, but allow you to park your vehicle at any EV charging location across campus for a maximum of 4 hours daily.

The final permit type is arguably the most powerful. Black zone permits allow you to park in one of a few parking lots that are right in the heart of campus. These permits are not oversubscribed so that means that you will always be guaranteed a spot when you come to campus.

With great power, comes great restriction. A black zone permit costs $160 a month and can only be purchased on a semesterly basis if spaces are available. Because there are so few of these permits available, you will likely have to be put on a waitlist in order to obtain one of these permits.

There is one last type of permit, which is for those wishing to park their motorcycles on campus. There are designated motorcycle parking areas whose permit will cost you $100 for the entire year, the only requirement is that you have a kickstand support plate so as to not damage the parking lot.

Yellow, Red and EV permits can be purchased on a monthly, semesterly or yearly basis, while Black permits can only be purchased on a semesterly or yearly basis. You can purchase all of

these permits at uogparking.t2hosted.ca/Account/Portal

For those of you in residence, your permit options are unfortunately quite limited. As a residence student, you can choose from the yellow zone permit, the yellow/green zone permit, as well as the motorcycle permit.

For those of you living off-campus or commuting, as well as graduate students, you can choose from any of the parking permits mentioned above.

Overall, the less you pay for a permit the more you’re going to have to walk to get to the heart of campus, but you are going to be at most a 20 minute walk from your class no matter what permit you choose.

You may see these prices and think they are out of your budget, and for many of you that is probably the case but here is some information you should know before making your decision.

First, you can have up to three vehicles on one permit. While only one of these vehicles can be parked on campus at a time, you could split a permit with friends to help reduce the cost.

Second, Guelph has some really good public transit. As a student you have access to many buses that run from 6 a.m. to midnight, and sometimes later, that are all free to use with your student bus pass. Most of these buses go by the University Centre, so you will be able to get to campus from most places in Guelph, for free and without having to find a parking spot.

Lastly , if you don’t pay upfront you might end up paying more down the line. Tickets can range from $20-$300, but most tickets cost $45 or $70. Not only is there the monetary loss, but having unpaid parking tickets can also result in your car getting

towed, and associating the parking tickets with your student account. Which might cause issues later down the line.

I have done my best to let you know all I can about parking at the university, the information is in your hands now so you must choose what to do with it. Whatever you choose, I wish you financial stability and no parking tickets this year.

Clubs 101: A look at some of U of G’s on-campus clubs

Are you looking to make new friends or find your own community? Then joining one of UofG’s clubs is a great way to start.

ALYSSA CUNNINGHAM

Making new friends can be difficult, especially if you’re just starting university or if you’re trying to branch out and find others who have the same interests as you. U of G’s clubs give you the chance to make new friends, discover your own community, and find your sense of belonging.

Whether you’re looking to join an athletic club like the Badminton Club or a faith organization group like Guelph Hillel, the Central Students Association, (CSA), has your back. The CSA advocates and provides a number of resources to make sure your student experience is right for you. One of those resources being that there is a club on campus for basically every hobby.

One of the first steps you can do to begin finding the perfect club for you is going to gryphlife.ca, where you can type in your ideal interest in the search bar and voila! your dream club is there.

On the chance you still can’t find something you like, don’t stress because you can always start your own! If you go on the CSA website under Services and click on CSA Clubs, there is a step-by-step guide on how to form your own club. In the meantime, here are some sneak peeks at just a few clubs U of G has to offer:

like you but that’s where the GBSA club comes in.

GBSA aims to provide a welcoming community where you’re able to share similar experiences, attain a sense of understanding & connection, and be in a space where you’ll always be heard. You can join in on their weekly discussions this semester which dive into anything and everything in between light and heavy topics ranging from cultural appropriation and colourism to cultural foods and University 101.

Additionally, there is never a dull moment in the GBSA when you can attend their multitude of exciting events. Whether you’re looking for something relaxing like a painting or movie night or if you’re wanting to get dressed up and show off your skills they have you covered.

GBSA also collaborates with the Caribbean Cultural Club (CCC) and The African Students Association (TASA) to host their annual formal, carnival, and talent show, as well as a poetry night with the Guelph Poet’s Society. If you want to know more about GBSA, you can check out their documentary GBSA - Our Story Unfolding on YouTube as well as their Instagram account @ gbsa__.

Girl Talk Guelph

Now don’t be fooled by their name, Girl Talk Guelph, (GTG), is not a club solely for girls but is open to all male, female, and non-binary folk. GTG offers a safe space for lots of fun times and open learning that is accessible to everyone.

Here, you will never be turned away and will always be heard. In their bi-weekly discussions, you will be able to share personal experiences and discuss topics that some may consider taboo in a judgement-free environment.

Guelph Black Students Association

If you’re looking for a safe place to call your “home away from home”, then the Guelph Black Students Association, (GBSA) is exactly what you’re looking for.

GBSA members Khalil and Anaya spoke with The Ontarion about how it can sometimes be hard to adjust to a new space, especially when the people around you may not look

For example, a few of the topics you might see could be anything from relationship dynamics to feminine hygiene to mental and sexual health. GTG ensures they provide a good learning space for Guelph students by regularly bringing in professionals such as self-defence specialists, doctors, and/or professors to speak in their bi-weekly discussions.

If this sounds like the club for you, then you should definitely

check them out on their Instagram account @girltalkguelph, where you’ll find interactive stories and updates on their upcoming events, including their speed friending event during O-week on campus.

Guelph Poet’s Society

At Guelph Poet’s Society, (GPS), you don’t need to be an excellent poet or even share your poetry if you don’t want to. This club is solely for the purpose of celebrating poetry and connecting poetry lovers.

They create a great community where you will always be inspired and welcomed, whether you have been writing/reading poetry for years or if you are just a beginner. Here you will have the opportunity to gain confidence in your poetry abilities as well as enjoy the company of other poets.

GPS hosts bi-weekly meetings where you can come out to enjoy some fun games, writing prompts and perform, or listen to, poetry. It is a great atmosphere for creative thinking and thought-provoking ideas.

If you aren’t able to make the bi-weekly meetings, GPS also hosts a Poetry Night in collaboration with The English Students Society (TESS) and JAYUxGuelph where you can enjoy a night of lovely poetry by your fellow Guelph peers with hot chocolate and snacks! Check out Guelph Poet’s Society on Instagram @uog_poets or contact them through email at poets@uoguelph. ca.

Debate Club

Calling all history buffs and argumentative students! The Debate Club is the perfect place for you with its rich history as the oldest club at Guelph, having been founded in 1881, and giving you the perfect place to unleash your debating skills.

In the Debate Club, you are given the opportunity to learn from your peers how to form a strong argument, develop more proficient oral skills, and understand the linguistics of debating. In other words, if you’ve ever had anxiety about not speaking well enough or maybe not making your thoughts and points well known, then the Debate Club is a great way to ease those worries.

In their weekly Wednesday meetings, there will be a micro-focused topic that stems from each month's macro topic on a current societal issue. During these seminars, you will be able to connect with your peers on how to efficiently argue these topics with one another while also learning from guest speakers such as our very own professors.

If you don’t want to jump right into debating or are a bit hesitant, the Debate Club hosts one social event each month for people who are looking to just dip their toes in. During these events, you can meet like-minded individuals with the interest of strengthening their minds over exciting games like “Am I The Asshole?” where you debate if a person is in the wrong in a given situation.

Keep an eye out for the Debate Club’s upcoming website to learn more about upcoming events like their seminars, socials, and even debating tournaments! In the meantime, you can contact the Debate Club at their email address debate@ uoguelph.ca or Instagram account @uogdebateclub.

Anime Club Genshiken

Whether you are new to the anime community or have been an anime lover for years, you’ll always be welcomed at Anime Club Genshiken, (ACG). ACG is dedicated to providing an inclusive environment for anyone and everyone who enjoys anime, manga, American animation works, etc.

In their club, you will be able to build bonds with other individuals who care about the anime community during their meetings that occur twice a week. In these hangouts, you can stop by after your tiring classes and destress by discussing the newest anime, relaxing with an anime watch-along or by just playing some games!

Additionally, you can finally live out your anime dreams by attending ACG’s Anime Convention in collaboration with Ontario Tech University and Wilfrid Laurier University. If this sounds like a

community for you then check out ACG on Instagram @uofganime and on gryphlife.ca where you can join their discord.

The English Students Society

It doesn’t matter if you are an arts, science, or engineering major, The English Students Society’s main focus is connecting all students who have a love for literacy. This club is perfect for anyone looking for a laid-back environment where you’re able to unwind, get to know other literacy lovers, and become immersed in Guelph’s community. You can stop by (for however long you want) at their weekly meetings in McKinnon's grad lounge, where you’ll be able to enjoy a relaxing evening partaking in anything from a game night, bookmark making, or even a holiday-themed meeting like a spooky story contest.

TESS also hosts bigger events, such as a Poetry Night in collaboration with the Guelph Poets Society, and last semester put on an Arts & Drafts event at an off-campus venue with art vendors and live performers.

Additionally, if you want to test TESS out you can spot them occasionally at their booth in the UC courtyard where they’ve put on a Blind Date with a Book and Typewriter Valentine's Letters this past winter semester. Find out more about TESS through their Instagram @tessguelphu or contact them at their email address tess@ uoguelph.ca!

1. What is the most important aspect of your personal identity?

A. My culture (2)

B. The fandoms I belong to (3)

C. My political values (1)

D. My impact on other people (5)

E. My creative abilities (4)

2. What is your favourite colour combination?

A. Yellow & Red (1)

B. Coral & Orange(2)

C. Black & Pink (4)

D. White & Gray (3)

E. Blue & Purple (5)

3. What is it you want to achieve by joining a U of G club?

A. I want to make some new friends (2)

B. I want to learn a new skill or activity (3)

C. I want to be a part of something creative (4)

D. I want to make a difference in the world and help other students on campus (5)

E. I want to make connections with important people in the community (1)

4. What genre of movie do you most enjoy?

A. Superhero Movies (3)

B. Foreign films (2)

C. Musicals/Comedy (4)

D. Documentary (5)

E. Historical drama (1)

5. What are you most likely doing on a Saturday?

A. Volunteering in the community (5)

B. Visiting my place of worship (2)

C. LARPing (3)

D. Playing local gigs (4)

E. Volunteering at my local constituency office (1)

6. Which first year elective/ course could we probably find you in?

A. POLS 1150 - Intro to Politics (1)

B. WMST 1000 - Intro to Women’s Studies (5)

C. THST 1040 - Intro to Performance (4)

D. FREN 1200 - French language I (or another language course) (2)

E. CLAS 1000 - Intro to Classical Culture (3)

7. Which not-for-profit organization would you be most likely to volunteer with?

A. Canadian Red Cross (5)

B. Jumpstart (3)

C. Young Diplomats of Canada (1)

D. Canadian Multicultural Education Foundation (2)

E. Ontario Arts Foundation (4)

8. Which of these is most similar to your dream job?

A. Writer (4)

B. Language translator (2)

C. Choreographer (3)

D. Municipal Politician (1)

E. Working abroad in the field (5)

9. Which of these gifts would you be most excited to receive?

A. A donation to a charity in your name (5)

B. Robert’s Rules of Order handbook (1)

C. A trip to a foreign country (2)

D. Tickets to a live performance (4)

E. A free subscription to Netflix for a year (3)

10. What are you most excited to do this school year?

A. See the musical (4)

B. Run in my college elections (1)

C. Host a fundraising event (5)

D. Listening to Got7 with friends (3)

E. Meet students from around the world (2)

MOSTLY 1: You got Political!

Model United Nations Club

A club focusing on critical thinking about politics, current world issues and education.

MOSTLY 2: You got Cultural!

International Student Organization

A student-run organization dedicated to providing resources and support for all international students.

MOSTLY 3: You got Fun & Games!

Jugglers of The University of Guelph

Also known as JOUG, this club is for all jugglers from beginners to advanced jugglers.

Love

MOSTLY 4: You got Arts & Culture!

The Korean Pop Club

This club is dedicated to all things K-Pop and hosts K-pop themed events.

MOSTLY 5: You got Sustainability & International Development!

The Wildlife Club

A club of nature and wilderness-loving students who promote educational outreach about the wilderness and learning through excursions.

1st year students:

Sensational sculptures 101: Getting to know U of G’s permanent residents

The iconic statues on campus have made the University of Guelph their home and are the centre of timeless traditions

There’s no mistaking where you are when you drive by the corner of Stone Rd. and Gordon St., or walking by Old Jeremiah, or even giving the begging bear a low five. You’re at the University of Guelph.

These familiar statues and sculptures have become an integral part of the campus landscape and have assisted in forming traditions for years to come. They have their own unique history, and are trailblazers in the lives of students for generations to come.

So what’s up with all these statues and their traditions? What’s the deal with dressing up the bear or painting the cannon?

“Old Jeremiah, '' also known as the cannon, is an alleged naval gun used by the British in the War of 1812. Nowadays, the beloved cannon is painted by students at night. Students paint the statue to promote different messages, events and social issues. In the past, students would move the cannon around campus at night. Legend says that students once pointed the cannon at the administrative offices in the University Centre in protest. It still sits there to this day.

The Begging Bear

The Begging Bear stands in front of the Art Gallery of Guelph with his arm outstretched. Carl Skelton carved the bear in 1999 and said it was a metaphor for how the species is in need of our protection. The seven-and-a-half foot tall statue is often found dressed up in different attire throughout the year, such as sporting a green hat for St. Patrick’s Day, or wearing red, gold and black for Homecoming.

The Gryphon

The newest, and perhaps most iconic statue on campus is the gryphon. The bronze statue was installed on campus in 2014 as part of the university’s 50th anniversary celebrations. The gryphon has the body of a lion, with the wings, talons and head belonging to an eagle. Not only is it the school’s mascot, but it is said to bring luck to students who rub its beak. Many students also choose to take a photo with the gryphon upon graduation, as nothing says U of G more than being a gryphon.

ALL PHOTOS BY TAYLOR PIPE

Do you like...

Working with others to solve problems?

Learning a new set of skills that will help you in the future?

What about contributing to a non-profit behind the scenes?

Then you might be just the person we are looking for to

JOIN OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The work that our volunteer Board of Directors does is exciting, rewarding, and has an impact in your community!

Check out theontarion.com/volunteer to get a better idea of what it’s like to volunteer with us.

Multifaith 101: Celebrating spirituality as a multi-faith campus

The University of Guelph offers resources for a variety of faiths

ELENI KOPSAFTIS

As you begin your university journey, you’ll surely hear all about U of G’s mental and physical health resources. If you’re a student of faith looking to take care of your spiritual needs, the school also has plenty of options for you!

Multi-Faith resources at U of G

The University of Guelph’s multi-faith resource system as it’s known now has been running strong for about 40 years now, and it offers a variety of accommodations for religious students.

According to the Faith and Spirituality at U of G webpage, there are six dedicated community spaces, 10 members of the Multi-Faith Resource Team (MFRT), and 14 student groups committed to supporting religious, spiritual, and worldview identities.

As a multi-faith campus, U of G values religious pluralism. Religious pluralism is wanting to foster a community that has respect for people’s diverse religious and non-religious identities,” said Sonya Wu-Winter, coordinator for Multi-Faith Programs at the University of Guelph, to The Ontarion.

“We believe that people of different backgrounds can form mutually inspiring relationships and work together for the common good.”

The multi-faith community at the university is also inclusive to queer students, and students of faith are encouraged to seek out related resources such as the Queer Christian Community, Rainbow Jews, and the Sexual and Gender Diversity Advisor.

Available spaces and services around campus

Most community spaces can be found right on campus. As merely one example, Raithby House is the charming farmhouse building near the cannon, and it is home to the MFRT offices as well as most faith-based programming. The second-floor has a cozy and quiet meditation room looking over campus and serves as a

drop-in space for anyone looking for a place to pause during their day.

There is also the Multi-Faith Room located in room 533 in the University Centre (UC) where individuals or groups can gather for prayer, meditation, or quiet reflection. It is currently only available via reservation request through ucservices@uoguelph.ca. The Mussalah (Muslim Prayer Room) is in the UC basement in room 008B, and two Wudu rooms are available in 002A and 006A for ritual washing.

If you find your way to the Arboretum, you’ll also find the Arboretum Labyrinth near the entrance closest to campus.

“Labyrinths are concentric walking paths used for the purposes of prayer, meditation, or quiet contemplation,” reads the Multi-Faith Spaces webpage. “Many people find the slow rhythm of walking a helpful embodied practice that aids their mental well-being or spiritual expression.”

Off campus, you’ll find Chabad House on 81 College Ave. W, a place to unwind and meet with other Jewish community members, and the Newman Centre on 325 Gordon St, a “spiritual home” for Catholic U of G students.

Indigenous students can find support through the Indigenous Student Centre at the Federal Building on 620 Gordon St. where Visiting Elders and Knowledge Holders offer individual and group advising as well as spiritual teachings.

Although the U of G campus is smoke-free, Indigenous students can contact Cara Wehkamp, special advisor to the provost on Indigenous initiatives, at cwehkamp@ uoguelph.ca to learn more about smudging procedures.

Feeling hungry? Don’t worry, campus has plenty of food options that correspond with your spiritual values.

Halal selections can be found across campus eateries such as Mom’s Kitchen, Hot Entrées, Infusion, and Need A Pita. Meanwhile, you can find kosher sandwiches and wraps at Chabad as well as Creelman Hall.

Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options can be found just about anywhere at U of G, including Nature’s Best, Mongolian Grill, Grab N’ Go, and stations that offer salad, pasta, or pizza.

For special diets and allergies, students can request accommodations by contacting the Student Nutrition Awareness Program at snap@uoguelph.ca or (519) 8244120 ext. 52249.

The importance of religious and spiritual resources

While university can be an exciting new chapter in life, it can also be a jarring one. That’s why it might be hard for new students of faith to find spaces and community

at a new school.

As a result, it’s crucial that such students feel welcomed and supported, says Wu-Winter.

“Spiritual wellness is part of mental wellbeing and human well being, and it's important to name that because sometimes it kind of gets lost in the mix,” she told The Ontarion.

Even if you’re not spiritual yourself, or if you’ve only ever gotten to experience your own religion, the multi-faith community here at U of G can offer a great chance to learn about your peers and their worldviews.

“When the Hindu Student Society planned a Diwali celebration for campus ... it was not only a chance for the Hindu community

to celebrate a religious occasion, it also a chance for other people on campus to really learn about and share in this remarkable holiday and appreciate it even if they’re not a religious person themselves,” said Wu-Winter.

“The multi-faith landscape on campus–the resources we have, and the people who are engaged with this work–I find it to be a place of real delight.”

To learn more about the spiritual resources at the University of Guelph, visit the Faith and Spirituality at U of G webpage at www.uoguelph.ca/studentexperience/faith-and-spirituality, reach out to faith@uoguelph.ca, or contact Sonya Wu-Winter at swuwinte@uoguelph.ca.

Mature students 101: Finding your people

It’s never too late to go back to school and make lifelong friends

Taking that first step toward a new career can be intimidating, especially if you’re not an 18-yearold fresh out of high school. Luckily, there’s lots of ways to ease the process. From coming up with a study routine, to creating a schedule that balances school, work and life. However, sometimes it can seem hard to find a place where you fit in.

If you’re riding the struggle bus and are looking for some support as a mature student, the Guelph Mature Students Association, (GMSA), could be the place for you. Especially if you feel a little out of sorts.

“There is the feeling like you're the oldest person in the class and feeling sort of that generation gap between yourself and your peers. I would say also, a lot of mature students don't spend nearly as much

time on campus, so they don't get that full sort of immersive experience of being on campus and doing things on campus,” said Monica Salmon-Panhuyzen, vice president of the GMSA.

The GMSA has been around for over three decades. They are located in UC 536 and have continuously provided mature students with guidance and a place to call their one.

They spent the last year renovating their space and upgrading their amenities.

“We have about seven pretty large study tables in there,” said Salmon-Panhuyzen. “We have a computer, a printer, a fridge, a microwave, sink, coffee maker, and also a tea kettle. And there's also lockers in there… That's just really a good space to know that you're going to be with other mature stu-

FINANCIAL AID at U of G

IMPORTANT DEADLINES

dents.”

In addition to providing mature students with a space, they also have resources available to them.

“We are always willing to help students with any kind of financial aid or getting connected with accessibility services. [We can help with] Finding childcare, which can be something that's more unique to mature students,” Salmon-Panhuyzen said.

“We get a lot of variety of questions, you know, people asking for help getting around campus, people asking for somewhere to study… So, whatever they kind of need help with navigating at U of G. We just do our best to connect them with the right people.”

For Salmon-Panhuyzen, having access to the GMSA greatly shaped her personal post-secondary experience.

“It made me really feel like sticking with it and graduating because I think that's for a lot of mature students,” she said. “You know, at first it's this big, great plan like I'm gonna change my career or finish my education, but it's easy to get discouraged along the way. So, it really kept me coming back.”

She also said there isn’t an age requirement for people to join the GMSA. Although, there is a shared goal of success in mind throughout the GMSA.

“The common thing is that all of us pretty much know what we're doing.” Salmon-Panhuyzen said. “We're here for a reason. We're here to get it done. And that's what unites us all but our oldest member was like, I think 59 and our youngest member was 19 last year, so we've got everyone.”

For those who wish to get involved with the GMSA, you can learn more at gryphlife.ca or email mature@uoguelph.ca.

The University has committed a significant amount of money and resources to support financial aid programs for 2023-24. These programs are designed to help students in financial need with managing the cost of post-secondary education.

Undergraduate Financial Need Assessment Forms: October 10, 2023* Graduate Financial Need Assessment Forms: January 10, 2024 Work Study Financial Need Assessment Forms: January 15, 2024

BURSARIES & NEEDBASED SCHOLARSHIPS: WORK STUDY PROGRAM:

Undergraduate applicants will be notified by late November and will have their award applied as a credit on their winter 2024 student account.

Graduate students will be notified in February 2024.

Form

The Work Study program allows you to gain valuable experience working for U of G departments while earning money at the same time! Apply to Student Financial Services by completing a Financial Need Assessment Form as soon as possible. Notifications are sent via email within days.

INFORMATION and APPLICATIONS can be found at uoguelph.ca/registrar/sfs

Contact awards@uoguelph.ca for more information

*Deadline extended from the 7th as a result of the Thanksgiving weekend holiday

101 THINGS 101 THINGS to do before you graduate

Read The Ontarion

Volunteer for The Ontarion

Learn a new language

Paint the cannon

See a play on campus

Attend a local musician’s gig

Sit in a class you aren’t part of, and learn something new

Participate in class and see what you can learn

Go canoeing or kayaking down the Speed River or Eramosa River

Listen to 93.3 CFRU

Volunteer at CFRU

Spend a summer in Guelph and explore the city

Play disc golf at The Arboretum or Exhibition Park

Turn off social media for a week

Post a TikTok of yourself dancing with the begging bear

Go to (or volunteer at) Hillside festival

Work on ways to practice self love

Wear pajama pants to a lecture

Take the wrong bus on purpose and explore Guelph

Have a picnic on Johnston Green

Attend a Gryphons football game

Join a club

Play an intramural sport

Speak with a career advisor before graduation

Use your student benefits - the den tist is expensive without them!

Take full advantage of student discounts

Visit the Guelph Farmers Market

Ice skate or rollerblade in Market Square

Live off-campus

Go to dollar beers at Trappers

Go for a bike ride at Guelph Lake

Learn the difference between MacKinnon, MacLachlan, Mac

Naughton and Macdonald Hall, Macdonald Stewart Hall and Macdonald Stewart Art Centre

Visit the Church of Our Lady Immaculate

Get free swag during O week

Go the The Bookshelf Cinema and see a film

Attend a concert at Guelph Concert Theatre

Learn how to properly sort your garbage

Learn how to properly sort your laundry

Video chat with Grandma

Try a new hairstyle or wild piece of clothing

Visit Elora

Attend the Aberfoyle Antique Market

Visit the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada

Visit Macdonald Stewart Art Centre for an event or opening

Meet your forever friends

Swim in the Elora Quarry

Attend the Scottish Festival in Fergus Dress The Begging Bear

Take a selfie with The Gryphon

Refer to the U of G as Hogwarts for an entire day

Count the squirrels on campus

Wear University of Guelph gear

Go vegetarian

Participate in Movember

Go vegetarian for a week

Do wednesday night trivia at McCabe’s

Do one random act of kindness

Get the highest mark you’ve ever received on an exam

Get the lowest mark you’ve ever received on an exam

Try new food

Meet Dino and his dog, Mowgli

Learn how to properly pronounce

MacDonnell and Edinburgh

Learn how to navigate the library

Bring friends and family to see Guelph

Host a charcuterie party - wine and cheese, anyone?

Host friendsgiving dinner

Pull an all-nighter

Get a reusable water bottle and fill it on campus

Make your own meals for a week

Go to a St. Patrick's Day party, then go downtown

Have a hotdog from Bob’s Dogs

Have ice cream or a tea party at The Boathouse

Go camping at Guelph Lake

Volunteer for the CSA

Vote in student elections

Treat yourself to a meal alone without your phone

Shop local

Ride your bike to campus

See a guest speaker

Have a drink in the shipping container at Fixed Gear Brewing Co.

Get free condoms at the Wellness

Centre

Go above and beyond for an assignment

Smile at every person you see for one day

Take notes by hand

Tour Wellington brewery

Meditate on campus

Explore the greenhouse

Visit the Art Gallery of Guelph

Visit the Civic Museum

Attend a protest at City Hall

Binge an entire season of a show in one day

Make it to every lecture for a month

Contemplate life

Have an existential crisis

Realize everyone around you is probably going through the same thing

Make unforgettable memories

Make the best friends you’ll ever have Fall in love

Ask your favourite professor for a letter of recommendation

Graduate with honors

Attend convocation

Not a sports fan? That's ok!

We've got you covered for all other U of G clothes, accessories, and everything else you need to not only succeed but do it in style.

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Inflation 101: Budgeting during these tough times

Tips for how to beat inflation and curb your spending as a student

With the rising cost of housing, food, and other goods and services, students are increasingly faced with stress regarding money management. Student living can be an overwhelming adjustment, and balancing academics with budgeting is a challenge that many students struggle with, especially when entering the first year of school.

Food and groceries make up a large part of a student’s spending. With the increasing cost of these goods, it is important to consider budgeting for meals. Eating out and ordering food is a great treat once in a while, but setting aside days where you cook your own food is a good way to limit spending on meals. Meal prepping can prevent impulse buys of takeout or expensive meals and snacks. Even bringing your own tea or coffee to school can prevent daily spending on expensive drink items.

In Guelph, many grocery stores such as Metro, Zehrs, Food

Basics and Shoppers Drug Mart have special discount days for students on certain days each week. Be sure to check if your nearest grocery store has student discount days before planning your shopping trips.

Also don’t forget to utilize the #iamreusable program to save leftover food from campus dining in your green container to eliminate your food waste and use it for another meal.

Along with the cost of rent, there are many other household expenses such as toiletries and cleaning supplies that can add up pretty quickly. Sharing these expenses with roommates can help to lighten the financial load. Buying supplies, goods and even food items in bulk can be cheaper. Splitting the cost and sharing with roommates and friends is a great way to save on these essential items.

Having fun and being social seems like a difficult feat on a

budget, but there are many opportunities to participate in free experiences and activities on campus. Regularly check the Gryphlife app for information on upcoming free events.

Check out the University Centre courtyard where clubs always have fun activities to participate in. And don’t forget to utilize Johnston Green where you can hang out with friends with no cost required. Picnics, frisbee games or even snowman building contests on Johnston Green are great free activities to do with friends that don’t include spending money.

Textbooks are an expense almost every student has to worry about. Many students spend hundreds of dollars on textbooks every semester but there are a few ways to reduce this cost. A good option to save money on textbooks is getting discounted textbooks at the Co-op Bookstore located in Johnston Hall. Be sure to also check

out Thecannon.ca website where students sell their used textbooks at a reduced price.

If you’ve got textbooks from the University Bookstore that you no longer need, don’t forget to go to the Textbook Buyback in the foyer of the MacNaughton Building to get some money back from your used books. Check out bookstore.uoguelph.ca to keep updated on when the next buyback is taking place.

Another way to cut down on expenses is to look for sustainable options, things you can fix up or reuse. Shopping for things you like doesn’t always have to break the bank. Thrifting for clothes or other used items is a great and sustainable way to shop without having to overspend.

Buying dupes instead of brand name is also an effective way to save. Expensive makeup, designer clothing, perfumes, cologne and other products usually have a cheaper equivalent that is

almost identical. So, before you go to buy your next expensive or designer brand item, be sure to check if there may be something similar out there for a fraction of the price.

Be cautious with relying on credit cards or using them for larger purchases. Before using the card, ensure that you can pay off your balance at the end of each pay period to avoid having to pay interest. Credit cards can create a false sense of comfort, and lead you to believe you have more money available to spend than you do.

While it is important to prioritize needs before wants, remember that a budget doesn’t need to control your life, but help you manage it when inflation makes expenses overwhelming and stressful. Budgeting helps you see the bigger picture in a simpler way, and hopefully can help you make the right financial decisions.

Nature 101: Guelph’s parks

Enjoying the stunning nature that surrounds the Royal City

WERONIKA SCZCYPKA

Guelph is a city surrounded by a variety of beautiful natural green spaces. It is the perfect city for individuals who enjoy being surrounded by nature from the comfort of their own home. Here are four of Guelph’s incredible natural spaces that are a must see by anyone in the Guelph area.

Arboretum

The arboretum is a well known park. Located right beside the university, it is a very popular place for students to visit year round, whether it’s for a walk, a run, a picnic or more! This area is just a quick walk from the main campus, and provides tons of trails and board-

walks for all to explore. The park is full of a variety of plants and animals, especially birds! During the springtime, you can spot many trilliums growing all around the trails! Be sure to check out the Arboretum Centre and garden, to learn more about the area as well as explore a variety of sculptures.

Hanlon Creek Conservation Area/Preservation Park

The Hanlon Creek Conservation Area also known as Preservation Park is a beautiful forested area booming with wildlife. This

park is a 10 minute bus ride from the university, and is a must visit place. This conservation area holds a variety of animals, including deer, foxes, coyotes, porcupines, hares, snakes, frogs, birds and more. Throughout the forest, the trails will lead you down a variety of different forest vibes, from open fields, to dense firs, to board walks over streams, this park has something for all!

Royal City Park

The Royal City Park is a spectacular park right in downtown Guelph. This wonderful park has a trail connected, which brings you alongside the speed river. This park

is also a quick five minute bus ride from the university. Walking along this trail often you will see various critters by the water such as mink, herons, frogs, and even the large carp inhabiting the river! Once you’ve walked and enjoyed this trail, be sure to stop by the boathouse tea room for some ice cream or a bite to eat.

Guelph Lake

The Guelph Lake Conservation area is extremely popular especially during the summer! It is a well known destination for beach days, camping, and fishing. Located on the edge of Guelph, it

is a 15 minute car ride. The lake is great for going for a swim on a hot day, or relaxing on the beach. The conservation area also has tons of trails, and just like the other parks, plenty of animals can be found within. Watching the sunset off the Guelph Lake Dam is definitely an experience that makes the trek out to the conservation area worth it. Nothing beats a setting sun over calm waters.

Guelph offers so much opportunity to connect with nature. These four parks are ideal for students who want to enjoy nature within the city they study in. Be sure to check out the nature around you and appreciate the beauty within the city.

Your University password should be different from all others. We will never ask you for it and you should never share it. Find out more at uoguel.ph/infosec

Fire safety 101: How to avoid getting burned

Recognizing fire hazards and staying safe

A@uofgfire YouTube video from 2011 shows a fake dorm room setup in front of Johnston Hall. Within four minutes the structure is engulfed in flames. The video lets the viewer know it takes five minutes for the department to show up. If you were in that situation, you’d need to act fast to ensure your safety.

Even if you’re not living in a dorm, fire safety is incredibly important. If you know the hazards and how to avoid them, the odds of causing a fire go down significantly and so do your odds of getting seriously burned or injured.

Cooking Hazards

Cooking hazards are perhaps the most common fire hazards. This can be anything from having a towel too close to an open flame, forgetting you’re cooking and wearing loose clothing while cooking.

In addition, cooking with grease and oils is also a very common fire hazard. That’s why it’s important to have a fire extinguisher handy, as pouring water or flour on grease fires can make them worse. Also, if a pan you’re cooking with catches fire, never pick it up and bring it to the sink - you may burn yourself in the process of transporting it. Just sacrifice the food, your safety is more important!

When it comes to cooking hazards, a lot of them can be avoided by paying attention to what you’re doing and keeping your cooking area clean. Remember to check that your stove is off and never leave grease or oil in a pot unattended.

Electrical Hazards

One of the most common electrical hazards is overloading a power bar. Some people even plug more power bars into their power bars which is a huge hazard. This can overload and overwork your power bar and can become unsafe.

Using extension cords as a regular outlet is also a fire hazard. An extension cord isn’t designed for prolonged use and can get overworked easily. It’s also important to never run cords under a rug, or on the floor in a high traffic area as these cords can get worn-down and become even more hazardous.

A lot of electrical hazards are easily avoidable, but there may be some things you can’t change by yourself like faulty wiring. If you find your outlets are turning brown, or if your light switches are getting hot, you may want to bring it up to the person in charge of the property you live on.

Personal Hazards

A lot of people don’t smoke in the home anymore, but if you do, remember to make sure that your combustibles are extinguished before you walk away from

them. The same goes for any candles that may be burning.

Make sure any hot hairstyling tools are off and unplugged before leaving your home. Make sure your kettle is also unplugged before you leave the home.

Also keep an eye on any flammable liquids in the home, including cleaning supplies. Make sure these items are stored properly at the right temperature and with ventilation to ensure they are okay.

If a fire does start

If it’s a small fire, you may be able to put it out by properly using a fire extinguisher or smothering it. However, it’s usually better to be safe than sorry when it comes to fire. Always have a fire evacuation plan in place for your home as you never know when you may need it.

Every home should have at least one fire extinguisher. In Ontario, there are requirements that ensure every home has a fire alarm on each storey and one outside every sleeping area.

Being fire-savvy all comes down to knowing the risks and how to avoid them. Whether you live in a dorm, an apartment, or a house, fire safety is incredibly impor tant and remembering the hazards can help save you and your loved ones.

According to the government of Ontario, here are the steps to creating your own fire evacuation plan.

1. Create a home floor plan

2. Include every possible emer gency exit

3. Find two ways to escape each room, if possible

4. Figure out who might need extra help escaping

5. Pick a meeting location outside

6. Once outside, call the fire de partment

7. Practice escaping

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There are four steps to using a fire extinguisher and you can remem ber them by remembering P.A.S.S.

Pullextinguisher to break the tamper seal

Aimhose low and at the base of the fire Squeezethe fire extinguisher to release the fire extinguishant

Sweepfrom side to side to until you see the fire go out

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Transit 101: How to get around

A look at the transportation situation in the Royal City

OWEN

TSIPTSIS & TAYLOR PIPE

Guelph has two main ways of transportation without owning a car, these include public transit and taxis. If currently enrolled in university studies, a compulsory fee is already added, which will enable students unlimited use of the local buses. To use this tap on the scanner at the front of the bus with a student card and you can get on the bus.

These buses around Guelph travel all over, and most start and end at the university bus loop on campus. Some of the more essential buses are the 15 which can take riders to Stone Road Mall and the 99 which goes to Downtown Guelph and also the opposite direction down Gordon St. to Clair Rd.

Late Night routes operate Tuesday night to Sunday morning from 1 a.m. to 3 a.m. Pickups may only occur at the University Centre or Guelph Central Station. Drop-offs can occur at any stop along the route. More information on late-night routes can be found on the city of Guelph transit website.

The other main option if the bus doesn't work is a cab. Uber is great and is always fast and relia-

ble, however, the other option is Red Top Taxi which accepts meal plans.

In addition to these transportation options, Guelph also has incredible bicycle infrastructure. Bike lanes can be found on most main roads and are a green option for those looking to lower their carbon footprint through sustainable transportation. Whether you’re looking to get somewhere fast, or enjoy the scenery, using different methods of transportation can help you decide what is right for you. Remember to look up bus schedules and bicycle routes and you’ll be fine and get there on time.

TheCannon 101: Navigating the website that’ll be your new best friend

A breakdown of the resources available on thecannon.ca

F

rom textbooks, to your next house, using thecannon.ca is one of the first steps that many students take to find what they are looking for. This website, first established in 2002, was made as a partnership of the Central Student Association (CSA) and the Guelph Campus Co-op (GCC).

It is on the classifieds section of the website where most of the traffic takes place. This page houses many textbooks for sale, as well as numerous houses that are offered for rent in Guelph. Many students post their used textbooks at very discounted prices, so the website is a great first look to get a good deal. Also, because thecannon.ca is centered around the university, the housing options are all student rental houses in the local area, which makes finding a place to live much easier.

While thecannon.ca also has other classifieds pages to sell all sorts of items, these see less use than the two main categories. Thecannon.ca also has an events area, where you can find and submit events designed for students and the City of Guelph.

Like all websites where things are sold, it is important to watch out for scams. While most of the people making and answering ads on posts are just students looking to get

a good deal, there are some users with other intentions. A common scam is where scammers wire transfer or send a check for more than the asking price and then request that you send them back the difference. If that happens to you, stay away and keep your hard-earned money to yourself.

When buying or selling textbooks or other items, it’s also often a good idea to meet in a public place. The carpet stairs in the University Centre are always a good place for just that.

If you have checked out thecannon.ca and haven’t found what you’re looking for, there are also many Guelph-specific facebook groups where you can find out information about courses, find housing and find used textbooks.

Some very popular Facebook groups include “University of Guelph Off Campus Rentals/Sublets" and “‘MUST KNOWS’ for each COURSE at University of Guelph”, both of which have over 10,000 members and can be super helpful throughout your time at Guelph.

Good luck with finding housing and textbooks. may cheap prices be in your future, and may the odds ever be in your favour!

A-Z RESOURCES

ARCH (HIV/AIDS Resources & Community Health)

 https://www.archguelph.ca/

 education@archguelph.ca

 1-800-282-4505

@ARCHGuelph on Instagram

ARCH provides anti-oppressive, sex-positive, inclusive care, treatment and prevention services in the area of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted blood-borne infections through innovative health promotion strategies and community engagement.

Catalyst Experiential Programs

 https://gryphlife.uoguelph.ca/organization/cegc

 catalyst@uoguelph.ca

 519 824 4120 x52760

The Catalyst Experiential Program fosters leadership and social change through active collaboration and meaningful learning experiences. This organization challenges students to imagine what is possible, to seize opportunities to deepen their learning and to affect individual and collective transformation as active, global citizens

Co-operative Education & Career Services

 https://www.recruitguelph.ca/cecs/

 recruit@uoguelph.ca

 1519 824 4120 x52323

CECS is an essential on-campus resource for students and alumni. It provides guidance through programs and services to help you achieve your career potential. CECS offers assistance at all stages of the job search process from building the perfect resume, performing a stellar job interview, to accepting job offers.

Diversity & Human Rights

 https://www.uoguelph.ca/diversity-human-rights

 dhrinfo@uoguelph.ca

 519 824 4120 x53000

The role of the Office of Diversity and Human Rights is to help maintain an environment within which all persons, regardless of their personal characteristics, feel that they are treated with dignity and respect. The DHR’s staff, together with a large number of interested University community members, work toward meeting the University of Guelph’s standard of protecting human rights.

Guelph Black Student Association

 https://uoguelph.campuslabs.ca/engage/organization/gbsa

 gbsa@uoguelph.ca or munford@uoguelph.ca

@gbsa__ on Instagram

The GBSA–formerly known as C.J. Munford Centre–is a resource centre for diverse and minority students at the University of Guelph. The GBSA is a volunteer-driven organization for underrepresented students, but it is open to all campus and community members who are interested in learning about issues related to students of colour.

Guelph Resource Centre for Gender

Empowerment and Diversity

 https://grcged.com

 volunteer@grcged.com

 519 824 4120 x58559

@grcged on Instagram

GRCGED is a student-funded collectively run resource centre for people of all or no gender. They advocate anti-oppression issues within a feminist framework, recognizing that issues of gendered oppression consist of struggles against all systems of domination.

Indigenous Student Centre

 https://gryphlife.uoguelph.ca/organization/indigenousstudent

 isc.desk@uoguelph.ca

 519 824 4120 x58074

ISC aims to engage the community from a variety of First Nations. Inuit and Metis cultures, backgrounds. They hold various community events based on indigenous kinship models such as learning circles, workshops, orange shirt day and more

Multi-Faith Resource Team

 https://www.uoguelph.ca/studentexperience/mfrt

 faith@uoguelph.ca

The Multi-Faith Resource Team is comprised of communities from a number of different faiths, all working together to meet the religious and spiritual needs of the University community. The MFRT is committed to promoting friendliness,, religious understanding, harmony in diversity, and spiritual growth.

Off Campus Living

 https://gryphlife.uoguelph.ca/organization/ocl

 ocl@uoguelph.ca

 519 824 4120 x56276

@UofGStudentExp on Instagram

OCL works closely with students, residents, city staff, landlords, and city councilors to help facilitate communication and to ease the way for students who live in Guelph. They also provide a range of programs and services to support students in making the transition to off-campus living, in navigating new relationships with landlords, housemates, and neighbors, and–through the Information Desk–finding their way on campus and in the local community.

Office of Intercultural Affairs

Counselling Services

 https://wellness.uogueph.ca/counselling/

 counsell@uoguelph.ca

 519 824 4120 x53244

Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday: 8:30 a.m-4:30 p.m.

Walk-In Service Monday-Friday as follows:

Fall and Winter: 1:00 p.m- 3:30 p.m. Summer: 2:00 p.m - 3:30 p.m. Offers individual counselling sessions to help support students as they work through the personal challenges that impair their ability to succeed at school and in other areas of their lives.

Health & Performance Centre

 https://wellness.uoguelph.ca/hpc

 hpc@uoguelph.ca

 519 767 5011 (reception ext 1) or ext 5309 on campus

HPC offers a wide range of diagnostic, rehabilitation, and health promotion services, including physiotherapy, massage therapy, chiropractic therapy, and sports medicine. The services are offered on a fee for service basis–many are covered by the student health plan.

 https://www.uoguelph.ca/international/people/53

 mkeefe@uoguelph.ca

 519 824 4120 x 53636

@UofGStudentExp on Instagram

The OIA serves the campus community by fostering an environment of cultural competency and diversity. At the intersections of academic and co-curricular learning the OIA offers intentionally designed programming and services that foster leadership and community development within intercultural, international and multi-faith contexts.

ANNU - Animal Science & Nutrition

ALEX - Alexander Hall

ARB - Arboretum Centre

BIO - Biodiversity Institute of Ontario

The Bullring- On-campus living room and coffee shop

BWH - Blackwood Hall

CAF - Central Animal Facility

Cannon, the - Also known as Old Jeremiah

Creelman Hall - Marketplace-style eating

CRSC - Crop Science

DH - Day Hall

East Residences

East Village

ECBA - Edmund C. Bovey Building

FS - Food Science

GRHM - Graham Hall

HUTT - H.L. Hutt Building

Johnston Hall

LA - Landscape Architecture Building

LA Pit - Eating area located in Lennox/Addington

Lambton

Lennox/Addington Hall

MAC - Macdonald Hall

MACK - MacKinnon Building

MACN - MacNaughton

MACS - Macdonald Stewart Hall

MASS - Massey Hall

MCLN - J.D. MacLachlan

Mills Hall

MINS - Macdonald Institute

McLaughlin Library – University of Guelph’s Library

Mountain Dining Hall - Located in South Residence

OVC - Ontario Veterinary College

PAHL - OVC Pathobiology / Animal Health Lab

Prairie Dining Hall - Located in South Residence

REYN - Reynolds Building

RICH - Richards Building

ROZH - Rozanski Hall

SSC - Summerlee Science Complex

South Residences - Includes Maritime/Prairie/Mountain

THRN - Albert A. Thornbrough Building

WMEM - War Memorial Hall

ZAV - Zavitz Hall

A-Z RESOURCES

OUTline

 https://www.uoguelph.ca/studentexperience/outline

 outline@uoguelph.ca

@UofGStudentExp on Instagram

OUTline provides confidential and anonymous peer support and information on services relating to sexual orientation and gender diversity to all individuals and families in the University of Guelph and surrounding community, especially those in the early stages of the coming out experience and those most at risk. Services include OUTline ONline, community events, OUT and About, Ask OUTline, and workshops.

SafeWalk

 https://csaonline.ca/safewalk/

 safewalk@uoguelph.ca for information or swvol@uoguelph.ca to volunteer

 519 824 4120 x53200

@SafeWalkGuelph on Instagram

SafeWalk is a student-run volunteer organization that provides people on campus with a safe and reliable escort after dark. This service is available between 7:30 p.m and 2:30 a.m., seven days a week during the school year, and is free of charge. To access SafeWalk, call the number above, use the free SafeWalk button on any Bell pay phone, use the emergency blue pole phones located around campus, or approach a pair of SafeWalk walkers.

Student Accessibility Services

 https://wellness.uoguelph.ca/accessibility/

 accessibility@uoguelph.ca

 519 824 4120 ext. 56208

SAS offers specialized programs and services to students with disabilities registered at the University of Guelph (full-time or part-time undergraduate and graduate).

Their advisors, support staff, peer helpers, and volunteers work with students, faculty, and staff in the provision of programs and services designed to assist students with disabilities in participating fully in university life, and in maximizing campus accessibility in maximizing campus accessibility.

Student Health Services

https://wellness.uoguelph.ca/health/

health@uoguelph.ca

 519 824 4120 x52131

Student Health Services supports students academic success by providing comprehensive health promotion, disease prevention, and primary medical care to students, their families and visitors to campus. The services offered include a dispensary, nursing, physician, dietitian, and mental well-being.

Student Help and Advocacy Centre

 https://gryphlife.uoguelph.ca/organization/shac

 shac@uoguelph.ca

 519 824 4120 x58105

@SHACUofG on Instagram

SHAC is a student-run advocacy and referral centre that advocates for students on a human rights, legal, housing/tenancy, academic, and financial basis. SHAC staff and volunteers will assist students in a confidential and compassionate manner to provide them with the information they need. SHAC strives to eliminate the discrimination against people facing all forms of oppression.

Student Support Network

 https://wellness.uoguelph.ca/ssn

@wellness_uofg on Instagram

The SSN offers a peer-support drop-in service that is located in Raithby House. It operates in the fall and winter terms from 12 p.m to 10 p.m from Monday to Friday while classes are in session or until 8 p.m during exams. SSN offers confidential, non-judgemental listening and support. This service is delivered by a team of student volunteers who receive extensive training in active listening and communication.

Student Volunteer Connections

 https://www.uoguelph.ca/experientiallearning/SVC

 faith@uoguelph.ca

Student Housing Services

 https://housing.uoguelph.ca

 housing@uoguelph.ca

 519 824 4120 x58701

@UofGHousing on Instagram & TikTok

Student Housing Services provides residence space and services for over 5,000 students as well as two accommodation locations for students with families. Student Housing aims to promote students personal and academic success by providing communities staffed by teams who respond to student needs.

Student Life

 https://studentlife.uoguelph.ca

 student@uoguelph.ca

@UofGStudentExp on Instagram

@uofgstudent on TikTok

Student Life supports students in the many transitions they experience- from the time they are admitted until they graduate. They are committed to the development of the whole student and, as such, help students explore their capacity for leadership, overcome barriers to learning and assume the responsibilities of a global citizen. During Orientation Week the Centre for New Students, part of Student Life, collaborates with more than 100 campus partners to deliver a range of events and activities designed to expose new students to the rich network of opportunities that exist on campus.

Student Volunteer Connections works to connect students with volunteer opportunities and connects organizations with student volunteers. It serves as a hub for all things volunteering on campus. Services are available for undergraduate and graduate students. You can book a oneon-one appointment through email and alternatively can drop in during office hours from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesdays, and between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursdays, at the Raithby House.

The Library and Learning Commons

 https://www.lib.uoguelph.ca/using-library/ spaces/learning-commons

 library@uoguelph.ca

 519 824 4120 x53617

@uglibrary on Instagram

The Learning Commons is based on a partnership model designed to support and enhance undergraduate and graduate student learning, writing, research, numeracy and technology at the University of Guelph. Our core services are located on the first floor of the McLaughlin Library in recognition of the Library as the central gathering place for students to study.

The Wellness Education Centre

 https://wellness.uoguelph.ca/wec

 wellness@uoguelph.ca

 519 824 4120 x53327

@wellness_uofg on Instagram

The WEC is a resource centre that provides information on alcohol consumption, body image, eating disorders, drugs, smoking, human rights, LGBTQ+ issues, mental health, sexual health, physical health, nutrition and spirituality. They also offer workshops, resources and cooking classes.

Brisson, Leis & Associates

OPTOMETRISTS

Judith A. Brisson, O.D. P. Lynne Leis, O.D. Reita Thomas-Parel, O.D. Violet Zawada, O.D. Jianchang (Iris) Shen, Optometrist

Thrifting 101: Shifting to thrifting

Making creative fashion choices to support the community and environment

RACHEL FIORET

Shopping second-hand has many obvious perks like a lessened environmental impact and cheaper prices. However, insights from local second-hand stores suggest additional benefits to buying used items.

Thrifting provides space for creativity and individuality in fashion. With less repetitive styles in second-hand stores, there’s room to think outside the box about how a piece can be worn or paired. Let yourself feel inspired by the versatility of clothing items.

“I think second hand shopping always requires a bit more creativity which is part of the fun”, said Carolyn Fielding, owner of Outpost in Guelph.

The lower cost of thrifting also allows greater flexibility while shopping. There’s less financial and environmental risk when experimenting with new styles.

“It's a great way to have fun with your style,” said Elisabeth Terry, owner of Plato’s Closet in Guelph. “Shopping second hand allows you to try a variety of styles, colours and patterns without the high price tag of traditional retail shopping. Don't be afraid to take risks and step out of your comfort zone. It also makes the brands and trends you love more accessible, no matter your budget.”

Outpost and Plato’s Closet are both second-hand stores with contemporary trends.

The benefits of shopping second-hand are not overlooked by the community. Victor McQuade, General Manager at Mission Thrift Store in Guelph shared that he is encouraged by what he sees.

Serving the U of G community for 40 years, we provide personalized eye care including comprehensive examinations, contact lenses and eyewear.

Exams available in English, French, Polish, Mandarin and Cantonese.

21 College Avenue West, Guelph (across from OVC)

TEL (519) 822-2710 · FAX (519) 822-7877

www.eyesoncollege.ca · brisson.leis@rogers.com

“Increasing numbers of young people are coming into our store to make a conscious effort to help the environment by thrifting instead of buying new,” he said.

An entire community can benefit from second-hand shopping. Clothing can be exchanged and sold numerous times, giving it a new life. People can save substantial money on new clothing. The cycle works in everyone’s favour.

Professional insights on second-hand

shopping

When asked for advice on thrifting, Victor McQuade suggested visiting stores often to always see the newest selection. Mission Thrift Stores alone puts out over 1000 items a day. He also recommended visiting non-profit organization thrift stores because the money goes to causes that support the community.

Carolyn Fielding from Outpost suggests, “going to local thrift stores and vintage stops to cruise the racks and find out what kind of style you are hunting for.”

Try to think about what you want to get out of your next haul and go from there. Visit all kinds of thrift and consignment stores and see what you might find. You can support local communities or even support a business and prevent good quality clothing from going to waste.

Impressive stats

The Guelph community has an impressive record of recycling clothing. Mission Thrift Store is set to sell over 400,000 items this year. The store is part of a group of 51 stores across Canada which collectively contribute to their foundation - which will have contributed $6 000 000 by the end of 2023. Additionally, Plato’s Closet has 34,364 items from customers so far this year.

As Elisabeth the owner puts it “that’s 34 364 items that did not end up in landfills!”

"Shopping second hand allows you to try a variety of styles, colours and patterns without the high price tag of traditional retail shopping"

Cannabis 101: A guide for the canna-curious

On Oct. 17, 2018, the Canadian government legalized cannabis. Since then, dispensaries have popped up all over municipalities that allow cannabis to be sold in storefronts. In some municipalities, like Hamilton and North Bay, there are more cannabis dispensaries than there are Tim Hortons’.

If you’re standing in downtown Guelph, on the corner of Wyndham St. and Carden St., there are eight dispensaries within walking distance. You may have walked by a few of them and noticed the seven-pointed, star-shaped leaf on the exterior and it may have piqued your interest. So, where do you begin if you’re curious about cannabis?

The Ontarion spoke with Dr. Andy Hathway, a sociology and anthropology professor at the University of Guelph who has been studying cannabis use for the last three decades.

“I got into it in terms of looking at it as something that goes beyond what is the typical description is kind of a deviant sub cultural phenomenon,” he said.

Hathaway added there are many reasons people choose to consume cannabis and that in University, it can seem far more mainstream than any other substance.

“People aren't using it as a form of rebellion necessarily,” he said. “They're using it for all kinds of ways that oftentimes, cross

boundaries into what's now known as medical use… they use it for all kinds of things that one could argue are functional reasons to use it.”

He said this is a large part of the reason he has spent the last 30 years talking to people about their experiences and learning about the diverse population that consumes cannabis.

Note: oils made for edibles can be very harmful if smoked.

Methods of Consumption

From smoking, to eating a cookie, there are lots of ways to consume cannabis. For many, smoking is their go-to option. They can roll their ground cannabis flower into a joint or put it in their pipe and smoke it. Some people also use large water pipes, which are more commonly known as bongs.

Some people vape cannabis. This may be appealing if you already use vape products. Some people have vapes that they can put ground flower in, and some have vapes that come with a cartridge filled up with a cannabis concentrate.

“That is one of the main things that legalization has done is provided a real incentive to innovate right in terms of vaporization technology and in terms of the use of edibles and for people who don't want to smoke,” Hathaway said, Those who don’t want to

smoke but still want the effects can eat, or drink their cannabis. These products are called edibles. In Canada, they are regulated at a maximum of 10 mg of THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, the chemical that makes you feel stoned.

These are the three most popular ways to consume cannabis, but there are other products out there like tinctures, oils, and even bath bombs that can provide medicinal effects.

Tips for first-timers

As with any substance, the key to trying cannabis is to go slow. Try a little, wait a little, maybe try a little more if you want to feel more.

“The nice thing about cannabis though, and particularly in the non edible formulations, is you're able to titrate the dose with some kind of level of experience and take a small bit to see how it sits and so on,” Hathaway said.

He likened this approach to microdosing psilocybin mushrooms, a trend that’s catching on with people who experiment with psychedelics.

However, people can take too high of a dose of psilocybin, which is less likely to occur when taking a larger dose of cannabis.

“Luckily, with cannabis, you can't actually poison yourself with it,” Hathaway said. “You will experience, you know, the green out phenomenon that some do, which is an indication of an adverse reaction and hopefully something you learn from.”

Lowering the THC amount in your cannabis is a great way to ensure you don’t over-do it and green out. There is also some research that suggests taking more CBD can help eliminate the bad side-effects of THC.

However, remembering moderation is key in any circumstances where mind-altering substances are involved is essential in any situation.

The stigma

Even with legalization, the stigma surrounding cannabis users is still quite prominent.

Hathaway said that just because it’s legal to buy it, doesn’t mean it’s automatically socially acceptable in certain crowds.

“That doesn't mean that we've lost all of the assumptions around what kind of people smoke pot being, you know, maybe lazy, maybe unreliable, certain deviant characteristics that carry over even though now it's a legally regulated product,” he said.

However, Hathaway noted a new acceptance for frequent users.

“I mean, there's certainly been an expanded tolerance zone for people who were using it on a fairly occasional basis,” he said. “But that doesn't mean that the stigma has dissipated for those who might be very heavy, daily users even, you know, and some of those are the same kinds of stigmas that go alongside somebody who was heavily alcohol dependent, for example, right.”

Hathaway also noted that the attitude toward using cannabis as medicine has expanded.

“Of course, somebody should be allowed to use cannabis if they find it effective,” he said. “And yet, in practice, it's not always the case, you will still encounter all kinds of problems with landlords and employers and family members.”

But the stigma has had a turning point in the last few years with legalization allowing the opportunity for more open discussions about

cannabis use.

The new ideals

Hathaway said the attitude switch surrounding legalization has been good when it comes to harm reduction and treating people with heavier substance addiction problems.

“There's always a cost to every form of consciousness alteration,” he said. “Cannabis happens to be one of the more mild and forgiving ones. So, for that reason, it makes a lot of sense that that might be a better choice than some of the other vices that it serves as a substitute for, and that's part of harm reduction.”

Hathaway said the rates of cannabis users have gone up steadily, but that was the case pre-legalization and part of the reason for legalization in the first place. He also said legalization was a chance for those who might not have tried because of legal implications, to give it a try - which might explain the uptick.

However, one of the most powerful things legalization has brought us has been the opportunity for open discourse.

“It does at least provide a context and environment now where we can have fairly honest discussions about it, without the fear of it being branded as a criminal activity and hence, you know, we'd better not be too honest about it, because we might get in trouble.”

The overall mentality surrounding cannabis might be changing in a more positive direction even though the stigma surrounding consumption persists. But if you are curious about trying it yourself, just remember to go low and slow in a comfortable environment.

From different consumption methods, to trying it for the first time and the stigma that persists post-legalization

LGBTQ+ 101: A guide to being queer in first year

There are plenty of opportunities for you to meet other queer students and participate in queer-specific activities

Calling all LGBTQ+ firstyears! If you're wondering what resources and services are available to you campus, this guide is for you.

Here at the University of Guelph, you have several various options to connect with other members of the community and connect over shared experiences, pop culture, academics, and more. So without further ado, here is a list we've curated especially for the queer first-year.

For all of the resources listed below, email outline@uoguelph. ca if you have any specific accessibility requirements.

The LGBTQ2IA+ Student Connections Newsletter is a great resource if you want to receive emails about all of the queer community opportunities and events on campus. To sign up, visit www.uoguelph.ca/studentexperience/lgbtq2ia and enter your email address under the ‘Subscribe to our Newsletter’ section.

As students navigate university life and their identity, the Sexual and Gender Diversity Advisor offers support to all queer students. Whether it’s personal matters, gender and sexuality, homophobia and transphobia, mental health concerns, or academics, your advisor has access to all of the support you might need.

U of G’s current Sexual and Gender Diversity Advisor is Caleb Harwood. Their introductory blurb on their university webpage reads, “ As a queer individual, I understand the importance that the spaces offering equitable support to LGBTQ2IA+ students must grasp the nuances, uniqueness, and individuality of queer identity.” You can contact them at calebharwood@uoguelph. ca.

OUTline is the University of Guelph’s resource and support service specializing in questions and information relating to sexual orientation and gender identity. Outline offers a confidential Online Chat and in-person events centering around queer identities. OUTline’s core values: sex positivity, harm reduction, anti-oppression, humanism, confidentiality, and peer-based support and

does not require anyone to give any identifying information to take part in the Online Chat and events

Through the Online Chat feature, you can chat confidentially with trained peer helpers about queer-related topics such as coming out, exploring labels, and finding resources.

The service is available all week long from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. during the fall and winter semester. Because Peer Helpers are students, OUTline does not operate during reading breaks, final exam periods, or during the summer semester. If you’re using Google Chrome in an incognito window, you may need to enable cookies for the chat box to appear. You can find OUTline at www. uoguelph.ca/studentexperience/ outline.

The LGBTQ2IA+ Weekly Discussion serves as an opportunity for students to connect to discuss and share lived experiences of being part of the LGBTQ2IA+ communities. At the weekly discussion, we explore different topics related to sexual orientation, gender identity, finding community, pop culture, and more.

Topics change every week but are always relevant to LGBTQ2IA+ topics. Please check the OUTline Gryphlife page for events dates, times, and location.

OUT and About (formerly called CampOUT) is a confidential social discussion space where students can connect with each other about sexual orientation, gender identity, and coming out. Attendees have the freedom to frame the discussion around themes that suit them, and they can participate at their own level of comfort. The lead facilitator is a student employee in the Sexual and Gender Diversity Office and has lived experiences about coming out. Please check the OUTline Gryphlife page for events dates and times. This in-person event is confidential, so location is not posted. Please follow this instructions on the OUTline Gryphlife page to receive the location.

The Trans & Gender Diverse Students' Social serves as

an opportunity for students to connect and discuss and share lived experiences of being part of the Trans communities. At the discussion, we explore different topics related to gender identity, finding community, pop culture, and more.

The term trans represents transgender, non-binary, genderqueer, agender, genderfluid, Two-Spirit*, and others whose identities fall outside of cisgender paradigms. Please check the OUTline Gryphlife page for events dates, times, and location.

Queer/Trans Black and Racialized students have a social space hosted by one of the Sexual and Gender Diversity Intersectional Connections Facilitators. The QTBRS Social serves as an opportunity for LGBTQ2IA+ Black and racialized of color to connect, discuss, and share lived experiences of being part of these communities. It provides a space for discussions that explore sexuality, gender, finding community, pop culture, and more. Black and racialized students are welcome in all discussion spaces. This specific space exists to create a space with shared lived experiences. Please check the OUTline Gryphlife page for events dates, times, and location.

The LGBTQ2IA+ Lego Night is an event for students who are interested in making new connections and/or want to build some lego! The space is hosted by social space hosted by one of the Sexual and Gender Diversity Intersectional Connections Facilitators. Anyone is welcome to attend this event and is not required to self-identify in any way. This space is intended to be a more accommodating event for neurodivergent students and we ask that all students attending be mindful of upholding an accessible environment. Please check the OUTline Gryphlife page for events dates, times, and location.

OUTline hosts many other events like, LGBTQ2IA+ International Students' Mix and Mingle, Movie Nights, ID Clinics, Study Spaces and more. Please check the OUTline Gryphlife page for more!

Fashion 101: Five essential back-to-school items

Must-have items for first-year and beyond

University is a great time to experiment with style. You can go full e-girl and embrace the emo styles of the early aughts, or you can channel the 90s with lowkey looks.

No matter what your style aesthetic is, there are some key pieces that work in every wardrobe. Here are our top five recommendations for timeless, effortless style.

Sneakers

Having a couple pairs of trendy sneakers will really help elevate and take your outfits to the next level. Sneakers provide the perfect blend of style and comfort. You want to feel like you're walking on a cloud when roaming around campus.

They have also become a symbol of self-expression through their diverse selection of different styles and colourways. Recently we have seen a resurgence of retro looking shoes coming back into everyday fashion. Styles like the classic Adidas Sambas, Converse Chuck 70s, New Balance 550s, and Reebok Club C’s have been taking over the fashion world by storm.

Sneakers are unique because of their ability to match and adapt to any kind of outfit, making them the perfect back to school staple.

usable, lowering the number of single use plastic bags.

Tote bags are a fun way to express your personality by choosing a bag that represents you. They come in many different colors and can include fun designs or patterns adding a touch of character to your outfit. Some examples of popular tote bags come from brands such as Baggu, Lululemon, and L.L Bean. So ditch your backpack and try something new.

Cargo Pants

Cargo pants have made a recent comeback in the past few years and with good reason. As different eras of fashion come and go, the 90s and early 2000s seem to be one of our favourites. We can thank this iconic time in fashion for popularizing cargos.

What makes these pants so loved is their versatility and comfort. When we think of school fashion we usually want to wear something comfortable that doesn't constrict us when we are sitting in three hour long lectures. Cargos are a looser, more laidback alternative to jeans and provide a sense of functionality with all their pockets and extra space that other pants do not.

Their adaptability makes them the perfect pants for school since they can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion with the help of some unique accessories. I think it is safe to say cargos are here to stay and won’t be fading out of style anytime soon.

Hoodie

Possibly a student's favourite article of clothing is a hoodie. No matter what time of year hoodies will be spotted all around campus. They’re ideal for long hours of studying or attending classes. Hoodies/ sweaters provide an effortless look and can make an outfit look like you put more thought into it than you really did.

They come in various different styles, colours and incorporate eye-catching graphics and logos making them a fashion statement. Their coziness also makes them great layering pieces to integrate in your outfits and use throughout fall and winter. If you're having trouble finding your perfect hoodie, head down to the bookstore and pick up a U of G sweater, they come in many different stylish designs and colors. You’ll be looking fashionable and repping some school spirit.

Tote Bag

You’re going to need something to carry your stuff around and while you might be thinking you'll just use a backpack, think again. Tote bags have been all the rave as they provide a more fashion forward approach to an everyday bag.

Their spacious interior allows ample room for you to be able to fit all your everyday essentials and are easily accessible. A bonus is that tote bags are eco-friendly. They come in sustainable materials such as canvas, cotton and are made to be re-

Baseball Hats

The rise of streetwear fashion has been growing rapidly. Baseball hats are a great way to add a touch of streetwear style to your outfits. For your sunny days on campus, when you want to enhance your look, a baseball hat with a neat design is a great way to do so.

Sports hats seem to be the trendiest of them all with people repping teams like The New York Yankees, LA Dodgers, Toronto Maple Leafs and many more. Brands like Ralph Lauren, Adidas, and Carhartt also sell popular baseball cap style hats with their own unique logos for those non-sports fans out there. Baseball hats are a timeless accessory with a widespread appeal and continue to be an essential.

Whether you’re looking to spice up your wardrobe, or are looking to style pieces you already own, adding one of these items can help you look and feel your best. Try a new style this school year - you might even find your signature look!

Nightlife 101: Different spaces, different vibes

A rundown of just a few of Guelph’s hottest drinking spots

University is all about having new, exciting adventures and finding out who you really are. For some, that means exploring their individuality and perhaps their sexuality. For others, it means finding your aesthetic and finding out you don’t pull off that septum piercing. For others, it means trying new experiences and maybe trying several cocktails along the way.

If you are looking to have fun in moderation, here are some of the most well-known places in Guelph to do so:

For the dancers - If you want to dance the night away like Dua Lipa, you have to check out Partytown. Located on MacDonnell in the downtown bar district, this location is actually several clubs rolled into one. You can visit Trappers Alley for a more bar-like expe-

rience, or you can check out Tabu or The Palace for more of a club/ dance atmosphere.

For the live music fans - If you like loud music in dank bars, Jimmy Jazz is the place to be. There’s almost always something going on at ‘the jazz’ on any given night. They even do karaoke for those who are adventurous and want to perform their own covers to an audience.

For the country kids - If you’d rather be drinking beer in the back of a pick-up truck, The Stampede Ranch is for you. This bar is a good old-fashioned honky tonk complete with a mechanical bull. They often have live music on the weekends and good vibes all around for anyone looking to listen to some country bops and have a good time with friends.

For the chill crowd - If you just want to have a beer and sit with your buddies, you should try Frank N Steins. Franks is a chill place for people just looking to kick back and relax, no matter what else is going on around you. Their drink selection is decent, but make sure to get there early or you might get stuck waiting in a line.

For the gamers - If you’re down to play some retro games, Bad Luck Bar is where it’s at. This bar is located on top of the La Reina Mexican restaurant and has a bunch of old school arcade games to play. This is a great place to go if you’re looking to kick back with friends, shoot some skee-ball or even play around on the car driving simulators.

For the ones who don’t drink - If you don’t plan on drink-

ing, perhaps you would be up for a rowdy game night at the RoundTable. This watering hole has really fun mocktails and has a bunch of board games that you can play with your friends. It’s perfect for people looking to have a fun night out, without the alcohol.

One of the best things about

living in Guelph is the variety of options available for going out. These are just a few of the places that are popular, so go out, experiment and try your luck wherever you want. And remember to never feel pressured to drink when you’re out. Real friends don’t peer pres sure people into drinking.

Safer sex 101: Choose your fighter

Picking the best protection against pregnancy and STI’s for you

University is a time to experiment. You can experiment with your clothes, your interests and maybe even with your friends. However, if you’re going to experiment sexually with friends you’ll want to choose the method of birth control that works best for you.

Birth Control Shot

96% effective

The birth control shot is done every three months by a doctor or nurse. It prevents ovulation with the hormone progestin. The shot goes into the upper part of your arm or your butt cheek. The shot can ease period cramps and PMS, and you only need to remember to get it once every three months.

Birth Control Patch

93% effective

IUD (Intrauterine Device)

99% effective

An IUD is a tiny device that a doctor puts in your uterus to prevent pregnancy. There are hormonal IUDs, which use the hormone progestin to prevent pregnancy, and copper ones. IUDs stop sperm cells from reaching an egg. Depending on the brand, an IUD can last up to 12 years! This method is convenient and low maintenance: once it’s in, there’s virtually no chance of mistake. It can ease period cramps and PMS, and the copper IUD is hormone-free! The IUD can be used as emergency contraception after five days of unprotected sex.

Birth Control Implant (Nexplanon)

99% effective

The birth control implant is a thin rod about the size of a matchstick. It releases the hormone progesterone, which prevents you from getting pregnant by preventing ovulation and blocking sperm. A doctor inserts the implant in your arm, and you’re set for up to 3 years of protection from pregnancy. This method is convenient and low maintenance: once it’s in, there’s no chance of mistake. It can ease period cramps and PMS, and it’s estrogen-free.

The patch releases estrogen and progestin, which stop ovulation and block sperm. It is worn on your stomach, butt, back, or upper arm, and you should change it once a week. The patch can prevent acne and ease period cramps and PMS. However, you must remember to change the patch once a week and refill it on time. Additionally, ensure the patch does not fall off, especially if you spend a lot of time in water.

Condoms

Up to 87% effective

Condoms are thin pouches that collect semen during sex. They are usually made out of latex, but there are also plastic and lambskin condoms for those with skin sensitivities. Latex and plastic condoms are the only contraceptives that can help protect against sexually transmitted infections! They are easy to find at drugstores and health centres. Condoms can add extra protection when used with other birth control methods. Make sure to put condoms on correctly and store them properly. Also, check for an expiry date on them with every use to ensure you’re using a good quality condom. If you’re sticking to condoms, use one each time you have sex.

Abstinence and Outercourse

Up to 100% effective

Abstinence refers to not having sex, while outercourse describes all other activities outside vaginal sex. These include kissing, using sex toys, or having oral or anal sex. However, outercourse can still lead to STI’s, whereas abstinence does not.

If you’re using this method, both partners must be cool with not having penetrative sex. Communication is key. Keep a backup option, such as condoms, in case things get steamy.

Overall, if you’re going to experiment sexually during your time at university, make sure it’s with someone you trust and who will support you and your choices every step of the way. Remember, consent is key and goes hand-in-hand with using

Abstinence is the only way to protect yourself against sexually transmitted infections.

Scams 101: How to recognize and avoid them

They may not be selling you a bridge, but they are after your money

A man knocks on your front door. He is smiling and begins to speak.

“I’m from the University of Guelph, I’m here to tell you that there is a problem with your account.”

You would be suspicious, but as he says this, he is tapping his name tag, which bears the U of G logo. You let him into your house and give him your keys (he did say it was urgent after all).

Sounds silly right? Well, every year many members of the U of G community do just that, handing over their login credentials to scammers.

And it doesn’t end there. Job ad scams, rental housing scams, and just about anything else you can think of are floating around waiting for unsuspecting victims.

Although most of us won’t fall victim to one, it’s a sad reality that students have yet another thing to worry about: they are targeted more often for scams as they are often vulnerable and less experienced than others.

Fortunately, by taking some simple precautions we can avoid being the victims of a scam by looking at how they try to trick us into not listening to that little voice that tells us to be suspicious.

Urgency

This is a tactic favoured by both scammers and legitimate businesses alike for a simple reason, it works. A sense of urgency is typically created one of two ways, either by making you think some-

thing bad will happen or by making you think you will miss something if you don’t act immediately.

Looking Official

When we are trying to determine trustworthiness, we usually look for clues that someone is indeed who they say they are. A uniformed police officer, a photo ID, or simply being in a specific location People tend to trust bank tellers with their money more when the tellers are actually in the bank, but we can’t do these things when the threat comes online and the scammers know this. So many scammers will either try to make themselves look official with complicated email signatures, “real” sounding names, or already knowing things like your name or address. In fact, gaining access to your email account may be just for the purpose of using your email address to gain the trust of people in your contact list to scam them.

Too Good To Be True

Many of the tactics scammers use to get people’s interest involve a deal that is so good, waiting will mean you miss out. Maybe it’s working from home for $1,500 per week or an apart-

ment two blocks from campus for $600 per month. But really, think about it, does someone really need to email random people to fill a work from home data entry position that pays $78,000 per year?

So what can you, the savvy scam-free student, do to thwart these swindlers?

Slow it down

Oftentimes there will be a threat of something bad happening or the opportunity for something good to happen, but you have to act RIGHT NOW. What happens if you act right away? You won’t think it through or get advice, something the scammers don’t want you doing. So slow it down, ask for advice, and remember, if there are real consequences, you should still be able to have enough time to verify the identity of the sender if you find it odd or suspicious.

Look closer

Channel your inner Benoit Blanc and look for clues… sure the sender says “University of Guelph” but don’t just look at the sender, look at the email address. It’s a pretty good bet that UofG doesn’t use the email: guelph.

univerty@protonmail.cz

Do keep in mind that even the email can be faked or stolen, so you should still be critical and confirm the sender if the request is for personal information. And remember, the university will never ask for your passwords for anything.

But don’t just look at the email address, look at the email itself. Think about the request and imagine what might happen if this is a scammer. Maybe make sure you verify phone numbers or other contact methods you are provided independently.

You are not a bank

Did someone buy something from you and send you too much money (often as a cheque)? Great. They can sort it out with their bank. Is someone offering you a job but they will send you money to buy some stuff (maybe gift cards) and you can keep the leftover money? That’s not a real job, it’s a scam. Remember, you are not a bank and a potential or current employer should not be asking you to spend your own money on things, especially gift cards. Be sure to check our next issue for part two of our series looking at scams, how they work, and how you can avoid them!

GPL 101: Getting to know the Guelph Public Library

Because having fun isn’t hard when you’ve got a library card

There are many great things about living in Guelph. The atmosphere, the natural spaces and even the library. Yes, the Guelph Public Library, (GPL).

You might have heard of the libraries on campus, but did you know that the city of Guelph is home to six public libraries? Each of these libraries offer programs and resources for anyone looking for something different.

If you’re a student at the University of Guelph, you can get your own library card and get access to all six locations by going to your nearest library branch and bringing something with both your permanent and temporary address.

Aside from books, audiobooks and ebooks up for grabs at the GPL, there is a wide variety of things you can borrow from CD’s to knitting needles and virtual reality headsets.

“So we would call the library of things and we've been developing those collections over the past

few years,” said Michelle Campbell, manager of public service at the GPL.

She said that among their collection of things they also have park passes, museum passes, radon detectors and more.

“[We have] unique things like that that are expensive for people to buy, but something that they might use in their home once in a while,” Campbell said.

Campbell also said something particularly useful for students is their Makerspace at the GPL’s Westminster branch in the city’s south end.

“We have something called the Glowforge which does printing on different types of materials like acrylic wood. It's basically an engraver and 3D printer kind of thing all in one,” she said. “It's a very unique piece of equipment.”

The Makerspace also features an embroidery machine and a cricut. They also have a video gaming area and a fully functioning audio production system.

“So, podcasting, music recording… We have a beautiful iMac computer and all of the different equipment you would need to do audio recording or video recording like green screen, anything like that,” Campbell said.

Campbell said the Makerspace is available by booking an appointment where staff will train you on the different equipment. From there, it’s up to you to book time and get creating.

In addition to the Makerspace available and the Westminster branch, there are also online resources available to card holders at all times. Library card holders have access to LinkedIn Learning, or Lynda.com, and are able to get online certifications.

For those looking to access literary materials like books and audiobooks, the library still offers the same authentic paper experience, with a new twist and a new program called Next Read.

“People just sign up with an email address and then it'll ask

you to fill out the sort of things that you like to read just to get a picture of what type of reader you are and what you're interested in,” Campbell said. “Then it starts to recommend books to you that you might like to read. So that's a little different.”

They also have book bundles where you can specifically tell the library what kind of recommendations you’re looking for. And if the library doesn’t have a certain book, you can request they order it.

In addition, if you live in the surrounding area, you can access the library.

“Waterloo, Cambridge and Wellington County…So if you have a library card from one of those library systems, and you bring it to Guelph Public Library, and show it, we will give you a reciprocal card so you have the ability to borrow from Guelph, but we do ask that you show that card to get the new card here.”

But Campbell, like many

others who have library cards in Guelph, knows it’s not just the books and collections that matter when you’re a library user.

“Even just for downtime for students,” she said. "Students need self care. They need to not always be doing work all the time."

She said the library is a place where they can come and get away from roommates, enjoy some air conditioning as well as some peace and quiet.

“We do have a lot of students who use that library just for studying, we have free WiFi, you know, and so come on in and you can print if you need to, you can copy things, but we provide a space for people to have some quiet study space,” Campbell said.

So if you’re looking to borrow a set of knitting needles, 3D print or just sit and read a book in the quiet, you can always give the Guelph Public Library a shot. After all, libraries are one of the only truly free services left in Canada, why not take advantage?

Cheap eats 101: Eating well on a student budget

Quick recipes and tasty, affordable food within campus reach MAIA GALLETTA

As students, the pursuit of knowledge can be both fascinating and demanding, often leaving us with no time to decide what we want to eat or where our next meal will come from.

Whether we are buried in books at the library, attending long lectures or socializing with friends, the university grind is real and can have us living off of ramen and trying to make do with our last few flex dollars.

But do not fear, the University of Guelph harbors many hidden gems on and off campus where delicious food can be found without having to break the bank.

For most, university is a time of exploration and adventure, not only socially and academically, but also food-wise. A great place to explore, especially for first year students, would be the on campus dining options. From fresh sushi to gourmet burgers, it’s no wonder the school was voted “best on-campus food” according to the annual Macleans survey.

You can find many hearty and flavourful meals for under $10, such as salad from one of many salad bars across campus. You can have a delicious combination of protein and veggies for well under $10, as it is charged by weight.

In most dining halls across campus, you can often find individual slices of pizza for a discounted price if you take a look in the fridges. You can save your cash and buy a cold slice for under $5, and you can heat it up in the microwaves by the Subway in the University Centre.

On the other hand, while on-campus dining options may provide convenience, sometimes us students may need a little change of scenery. While eating out can be pricey, especially running on a student budget, there are many places near the school that keep that in mind.

Just ten minutes from campus, located at Woodlawn Rd. and Victoria Rd, is an affordable Afghan cuisine restaurant called Helmand Kabab House. Here, you can find all kinds of kebabs, shawarmas, wraps, and even pizza all for a lower cost than most. With shawarmas starting at $8.63 and side dishes starting at $1.25, students can definitely build a meal for themselves and even a few friends for under $15.

Always keep your eyes peeled for little restaurants like this that offer affordable meals. They usually are good on your taste buds and your wallet.

Another great place to get fresh, hot food is most grocery stores surrounding the campus. Stores such as Longos and Goodness Me have daily hot tables open

with a variety of different foods like chicken wings, cold cut sandwiches, pasta and much more for a reasonable price. You can find hearty meals ranging from $5 to $15, perfect for those who are economical but love tasty and fresh food. Another bonus is that Goodness Me accepts flex dollars, making it easier for students to access. While you’re at the grocery store picking up prepared meals, you might as well grab a few ingredients so that you can make your own meals. You heard that right, you can whip up some easy and quick meals in the comfort of your own house or dorm room.

These two recipes can be made in under 10 minutes, so as long as you have a mini fridge and an accessible microwave, they are perfect for making between classes or during a study break.

Greek Brown and Wild Rice Bowl

Ingredients:

• 1 package of Minute Rice

• ¼ cup Greek dressing

• ½ cup ripe avocado

• ¾ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

¼ cup crumbled feta cheese

¼ cup pitted Kalamata olives

Minced parsley, optional

• Directions:

• In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the rice and the greek dressing.

• Cover and cook on high until heated through, about 2 minutes. Divide between 2 bowls. Top with avocado, tomatoes, cheese, olives, remaining dressing and, if desired, parsley.

Mug Mac & Cheese

Ingredients:

• ½ cup small macaroni

• ½ cup water

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ cup milk

½ cup shredded cheese

Directions:

• In a very large microwaveable mug, combine the macaroni, water, and salt. Stir to combine then place on a microwave safe plate.

• Microwave in two minute intervals, stirring in between, about 10

minutes total, until all the water is absorbed and the macaroni is tender.

• Stir in the milk and cheese and microwave for 30 seconds, or until the cheese is melted.

• Enjoy immediately.

As you’re going into the new school year, you now know that satisfying your hunger doesn’t have to mean draining your bank account. Once you learn to navigate the campus and city surrounding it, you’ll find a plethora of affordable food spots just waiting to be discovered. Bon appétit and happy dining, Gryphons!

Your health, dental & vision benefits.

Fall 2023 Deadlines

Dental Opt-Out, Opt-In: Sept. 22, 2023

Family Add-On: Sept. 29, 2023

Music. Smiles. Hot Dogs. Music. Smiles. Hot Dogs.

For 23 years, Bob has made it his mission to serve up good food and good times to U of G students. Whether you're in need of a quick meal or a just friendly face, come say hi to Bob at his hot dog stand just east of Branion Plaza. WE

Unfortunate events 101: What to do when things go wrong

How to overcome and persevere

Let’s be honest, sometimes university sucks. You get a bad grade on a test, your partner dumps you and your favourite pair of pants rip all in the same day. These days can leave us feeling crummy and like what we do doesn’t matter. It can be hard to break that cycle of thinking ‘life sucks because I suck.’

It also doesn’t help when things you really wanted to work out, simply don’t. Things can seem very bleak when everything seems to be going wrong. However, there are ways to overcome these feelings and know that happiness is just around the corner, even when you least expect it.

Put a positive spin on it

Did you ruin your favourite pair of shoes? Great, now you get to look for a new favourite pair. Did you break a nail? Awesome, you get a new set. Did you spill on your laptop and erase your project? Now you can do it even better.

Sure, these things aren’t ideal. But it’s all about how you choose to react that will make a difference. Even when things are going wrong, there’s usually something good that comes from it. Trying to look for the good in the bad is a great outlook to have and a great way to deal with small devastations.

Learn from the mistake

Did you fail your big test? That really blows. But you can always take this opportunity to see where they may be weak spots in your knowledge of a subject. You can use this to see what it is you’re not understanding and make it more comprehensible for yourself.

If you’re walking on your street and you roll your ankle on the sidewalk, you’re going to avoid that part of the sidewalk, or at least know how to step around that spot, right? This is how learning from your mistakes actually can keep you safe. So, don’t think of it as just failing a test, think of it as a reminder that you might want to take time to understand and learn more in the future.

Know it will pass

Did your partner dump you over the weekend? That must be really hard. But know that the feelings you’re having won’t last forever. Whether it’s sadness, disappointment or pure rage, know that if you take some time and a few deep breaths, you’ll probably feel better.

Emotions can seem like such a big

deal when they come up. Especially when it comes to love, it’s hard to feel like losing someone isn’t the end of the world. However, one day you will be over your ex and you will be in control of your emotions. Even if you aren’t in control today, you might be tomorrow, and that’s okay.

Talk to others

If you’re really down in the dumps by all the stress of day-to-day life, talk to someone. It can be your best friend, your mom or dad, your brother or a counsellor. Sometimes getting big feelings out in the open and acknowledging them by saying it out loud is a great way to feel better.

The person doesn’t need to give you advice, they can just sit and listen. Sometimes it’s truly all you need. There is a reason they call it venting, after all.

Forgive yourself

No matter what life throws at you, forgiveness is essential to survival. It can be hard to forgive yourself if you’ve made mistakes, or if things didn’t go the way you had planned. But sometimes that’s just how life is.

If your grades slip when you get to university, that’s okay. If you forgot to wish your mom a happy birthday, that’s okay. If you feel inadequate at the moment, that is okay. As long as you can forgive yourself, or even make an effort to try, you’re on the right path.

If you’re really stuck

Reach out to somebody. Mental health is something that nobody should suffer through alone. There are a few ways to reach out for mental health help at the University of Guelph.

Student Wellness is a great resource for anybody dealing with mental health issues. They offer things like same-day counseling, self-help resources, academic support, and a student support network. These programs are in place to ensure no student feels left behind, even on their bad days.

Whether you’re having trouble with your car, or your backpack broke, try to remember, it’s a bad day, not a bad life. If you’re able to, think of something positive that can come out of the experience, learn from the mistake, know it will all be over soon and forgive yourself. Sometimes you have to look on the bright side to see the sunshine, and that is okay.

Community.

It's just one word but it represents so much. For over 70 years The Ontarion has acted as a platform for community members to report the news, share their storie s, and connect with each other We hav e also been a space where anyone can contribute and make their voice heard.

Come join us as we embark on the next 70 years and continue to connect one another through journalism and storytelling All are welcome

BECAUSE WE ASKED...

What are you most excited for this year?

"Looking forward to volunteering more and getting more involved in the community and doing as many things as I can. Like in terms of clubs on campus just so I can end my year with a bang."

"I am looking forward to fall and halloween and all the festivities that come with it. I'm excited to see fall on campus again and seeing all the pretty colors. I think it’ll be very nice and a cozy fall."

"I am looking forward to intramural games in the fall, I play with my friends. All the friends come together like all the African students. Our team name is Kanyana united FC."

"The free food."

David the Squirrel, 3rd year, Wildlife

"I'm going into third year so I'm hoping I can get my grades up and be more involved on campus. I joined 2 new clubs so ya that's pretty much it."

"Getting my degree because it's my last semester and I am also applying to some scholarships and masters programs and looking forward to the responses from those. And hopefully seeing winter here but I don’t know if I am staying that long."

"I am excited to graduate. And also to do more work in residence, I was an RA for the past two years and so I switched over to working in administrative stuff."

INTERVIEWS & PHOTOS BY MARIANA ERAZO & PATRICK SUTHERLAND

“I'm looking forward to meeting lots of students and they sing with me together in my place”

Bob 24th year, Bob’s Dogs

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Initiation Frosh O-Week

The name may have changed, but students haven’t. Check out some deep cuts from our archives to see what O-week used to look like (and consider yourself lucky that you don’t have to wear a tiny necktie!)

The Ontarion has been around since 1951 and we’ve witnessed some pretty historic moments. This is a new feature that will focus on noteworthy articles pulled from our archives that are of interest to our readership today.

We’re currently in the process of fully digitizing our archives and creating a searchable directory. If you’d like updates on when this project is complete, sign up for our newsletter by emailing info@theontarion.com

In our summer issue, we featured coverage of Pierre Trudeau’s visit to Guelph. Following the release of this issue we received this message with these photos:

Hi Ontarion,

I just finished perusing your summer issue and enjoyed the archives story on Pierre Trudeau’s campaign visit to guelph in 1974.

I was there as a 10 year old and was able to shake a pinky with Trudeau amongst the thousands of people in attendance.

I remember it as just being a sea of people. Attached is my ticket stub from that afternoon.

If you have any memories associated with our archival section, please send us a message on our Instagram or Facebook page to be featured in our next issue!

Mental health 101: How to reach out for help at U of G

Many supports are available on campus if you or your friends are struggling with mental health

Starting post-secondary school can be a time of significant change. Whether you're living on your own for the first time, dealing with new roommates, or struggling to find your community, these can be turbulent times for all of us, and some extra support can make a huge difference.

The University of Guelph strives to make this transitional period smoother for everyone by providing an abundance of resources for students to access throughout the year.

Counselling services offer a variety of judgment-free options, including individual and group therapy. When booking an appointment, you can expect to meet briefly with a student wellness navigator who will discuss all your support options as well as get to know your needs better.

Appointments are available through video call or regular phone calls and are completely confidential unless you or the people around you are at immediate risk of harm. Counsellors are here for you to discuss anything at all. Students often seek out help to deal with loneliness, anxiety, depression, as well as trauma and grief however our counsellors are fully prepared to support you in any way you may need.

As well, we provide a number of therapy groups on campus to help our peers and make connections with those facing similar challenges. Though groups offered change every year, a few we have run in the past include support groups for depression and anxiety, disordered eating groups, men's groups, building healthy relationships, and creating space for grief. Groups are typically around 90 minutes per session and in-person, though an online alternative may be supported.

To book a meeting with a navigator and begin to discuss your needs, wellness services can be contacted at the number 519824-4120 and the extension 53244. If you are in immediate need of help and cannot wait for the next available appointment, drop-in appointments are available on a first come first serve basis. From 1 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. every Monday

- Friday you will be able to meet with a counsellor one-on-one for a 30-minute appointment.

The University of Guelph is dedicated to ensuring you have support no matter what, which is why the sexual and gender-based violence support team can be accessed without making any sort of report or disclosure. Through this service, students are given access to academic accommodations, referrals to medical professionals, safety planning, and any additional support you may express a need for.

The team strives to provide "education and support that [is] trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, survivor-centric, and rooted in harm-reduction philosophies" (Student Wellness, n.d). Their focus is on helping survivors begin to heal and giving them the shoulder they need during difficult times, whatever that may mean to each individual. Our sexual and gender-based violence support coordinator can be reached at the email svinfo@ uguelph.ca for those wishing to refer themselves or someone they care about.

Those in need of academic accommodations due to their mental health may also find help in the form of student accessibility services. SAS is a program designed to break down barriers in the classroom and give you the support you need to complete your courses to the best of your ability. Anyone experiencing a disadvantage or interruption in their academic lives, such as hearing or visual impairments, chronic medical conditions, or mental health conditions can access SAS. By filling out the new student form on Guelph Student Wellness’s webpage, you will be given an advisor who understands your needs and will advocate for you in the classroom.

Overall, the University of Guelph has a multitude of resources available for all students to take advantage of. Whether you need academic support, a group of peers who understand what you’re going through, or professional one-on-one support, you are cared for at U of G.

Rivers in Guelph Rivers in Guelph

Fill in the empty squares so that each of the digits 1 through 9 appear once in each row, column, and

CRYPTOGRAM FUN FACT:

A cryptogram is a collection of words - often quotationswhere each letter has been consistently substituted with another letter.

Tips:

1. Use a pencil

2. Letters will not stand for themselves.

3. There are two commonly used one-letter words: "i" and "a"

4. The most common letters in the English language are: E, T, A, O, I, and N.

If you would like a hint, see below...

BOARD

Glowinsky

ASKARY

CUNNINGHAM PAULA HENRY-DURU

MARIANA ERAZO

RACHEL FIORET

MAIA GALLETTA CALEB HARWOOD AADYA KAPOOR ELENI KOPSAFTIS GRACE MUIR ELLIE PETRAK WERONIKA SZCZYPKA

OWEN TSIPTSIS

CORRECTION NOTICE:

In our 2023 summer issue, we ran a story about author C.E. Hoffman that stated they completed their Creative Writing Honours at the University of Guelph. They actually transferred to the University of Alberta in Edmonton to finish their program due to the high cost of living in Guelph.

Of all the species scientists have discovered, one in ten is a moth.

EASY CROSSWORD HARD CROSSWORD

Across

1–War god

5–Islamic chieftain

9–Type of school or cook

13–Actress Hatcher

14–Brand name for a copying machine

16–Unit of currency in Iran and Yemen

17–Opposite of odd, especially when applied to numbers

18–Declaim

19–"___ quam videri" (North Carolina's motto)

group

Down

1–Had a little lamb

2–Accelerate

3–Poet's preposition

4–Genuine

5–Second book of the Bible

6–Joyous

7–Dies ___

8–Nonsense

9–Come before

10–Hazard

11–Facilitate

12–Answered a charge

15–Copies

21–Elderly, matured

23–Polo Grounds hero

24–Native American beads

25–Think

26–Drunken

27–Left-hand page

29–One who cries "uncle"?

30–Church instrument 31–Last Greek letter

cleaner

Across

1–Brother of Hoss

5–Club in a Manilow song

9–Lady of Spain

13–Lake Nasser feeder

14–Tint

15–Worship from ___

16–Swimming pool

18–Pear type

19–Head garland

20–One of the few in charge

22–Peter and a Wolfe

23–Organic compound

24–To ___ it may concern

26–Oklahoma athlete

31–Mimic

34–La Dolce ___

37–University of Maine city

38–Hallucinatory

42–Analyze grammatically

43–Cowboy boot attachment

44–Fingers

45–Takes by theft

47–Terrier type

50–Chicago airport

53–Result

57–Midday

61–Intolerance

62–Commedia dell'___

63–Director

65–Wife of Zeus

66–Sleepy

67–Remitted

68–Amo, amas, ___

69–Hydroxyl compound

70–Boundary, WWE wrestler

Down

1–Kofi of the U.N.

2–"Cheers" waitress

3–Hitching post?

4–Lea

5–___ anglais (English horn)

6–Miscellanies

7–Young fowl

8–Military organizations

9–The Aba ___ Honeymoon

10–Get an ___ effort

11–Like some Fr. nouns

12–Shrewd

14–Dot follower

17–New Ager John

21–Brush a horse

23–Sends out

25–Lacto-___ vegetarian

27–Galena or bauxite

28–Don't look at me!

29–Geraint's beloved

30–Fabled fliers

31–Computer programs, for short

32–H.S. junior's exam

33–Gothic governess

35–Peak

36–Entertain

39–1860s insignia

40–Spartan serf

41–Bug

46–Certain Muslim

48–Votes for 49–Sheath

51–Mgmt.

52–Dupe

54–Fathered

55–Manipulating

56–Engage in histrionics

57–Okinawa port

58–City near Provo

59–"La ___", 1946 Dolores del Rio

60–In apple-pie order

61–Flushed 64–Cath. or Prot.

SEPTEMBER TO-DO LIST

SAT, SEPT 2

Block Party

• 9:00 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.

• Johnston Green

• Open to all U of G students

SUN, SEPT 3

Colour Me Gryphon - GWIL

• 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

• Johnston Green

• Open to all U of G students

MON, SEPT 4

Sexy Bingo

• 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

• Location?

• Open to all U of G students

WED, SEPT 6

Sustainability Fair

• 10:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

• Bike Pavillion

• Open to all U of G students

FRI, SEPT 8

Hypnotist

• 5:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

• Johnston Green

• Open to all U of G students

WED, SEPT 20

Walk Right Back - Everly Brothers Story

• 7:00 p.m..

• River Run Centre

• Buy tickets online at riverruncentre.ca. $59.00 all tickets

SUN, SEPT 24

Fall Fest: Vendor & Craft Show

• 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

• Delta Hotel Conference Centre

• Free entry

WED, SEPT 27

Managing Cravings- Wellness Education Centre

• 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

• John T Powell Building, Rm 1146

• Open to all U of G students

THURS, SEPT 28

Guelph-Wellington: Google Analytics 4 Beginners

• 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

• Guelph City Hall, 1 Carden St

• Open to anyone operating a small business

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