The Ontarion - 197.1

WHAT IS THE ONTARION?

The Ontarion is the independent campus community newspaper at the University of Guelph. Since 1951, we have published news, opinion, photography, satire, art, movie reviews, and everything in between as we pursue our goal of telling the stories that live within our community.

But we are so much more than that! We aren’t just a newspaper, we’re a hub for students who want to learn about Guelph and its history. We’re a meeting space for creatives who want to contribute to their campus community. Most importantly, we’re an organization that strives to make the University of Guelph a great place!

READER

The easiest way to get involved is to pick up a copy or go online and read it! You’ll find all sorts of different content like news, local coverage, arts, reviews, and much more.

FOR THOSE WHO:

• Want to learn about their community

• Want to stay informed

• Are looking for fun things to do

• Are looking for ways to engage with the Guelph community

HOW TO GET INVOLVED VOLUNT R wORK FOR US

Yes, you can write or take photos for us and be published in a real newspaper! Aside from the free training and it looking great on your resume, it's a lot of fun and a great way to get involved with your community. It’s also fun to have your name printed in a newspaper with a piece that you worked hard on and are truly proud of!

FOR THOSE WHO:

• Want a flexible volunteer position (help out as much or as little as you like)

• Enjoy writing and/or photography

• Would like a supportive environment to learn new skills

Interested in a job in journalism, writing, or communications? Our work-study positions might be just the thing to jumpstart your career. The best pathway to getting a job with us is to start volunteering. We’ve had employees go on to be reporters for CBC, GuelphToday and more. The Ontarion is a great jumping-off point for your career.

FOR THOSE WHO:

• Have 15 hours per week to commit

• Enjoy fast-paced work

• Like being paid!

• Want to be a part of something important www.theontarion.com

• Are creative!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

4 & 5. Welcome letters

CAMPUS 101

6. Getting to know your Central Student Association

7. Exploring multi-faith resources on campus

8. How to reach out for help at U of G

9. Dorm room essentials

11. Keeping up with your classes

12. Sensational Sculptures - Getting to know U of G’s permanent residents

13. Being queer in 1st year

14. A look at U of G’s Mature Student Association

15. Keeping the peace while living with roommates

17. Storing your large metal box close to class

18. Being an international student on campus

19. Club quiz

20. 101 things to do before you graduate 22 & 23. Campus map

ADULTING 101

25. Transitioning from high school to university

26. Making things work near, far, wherever you are

27. Being safe is sexy

28. A look at Guelph’s natural spaces

29. Making friends in university

31. Work hard, play hard

33. How do I save money in university?

34. Navigating Guelph

35. Fire Safety: How to avoid getting burned

FUN STUFF

37. From the archives

38. September to-do list

39. Campus landmarks

40. Pets of the month

41. Puzzles page

42. We are The Ontarion Why volunteer?

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

WELCOME LETTERS

Welcome to the 2024-2025 academic year at the University of Guelph!

Whether you're just starting your journey with us or returning to continue your studies, I am delighted to welcome you to our community.

At the University of Guelph, we are proud to be one of Canada’s top comprehensive and research-intensive universities. Our commitment to rigorous scholarship, creativity, and impactful research setsus apart. But what truly makes our university special is our dedication to you, our students, and theholistic experience we offer.

Here at U of G, you will have the opportunity to learn from world-renowned faculty who are leaders intheir fields. Their passion for teaching will inspire and challenge you. Additionally, you will havenumerous opportunities for experiential learning, allowing you to gain real-world experience and apply your knowledge in practical settings.

Life at U of G encompasses much more than academics. We are committed to fostering your personal, professional, and social development. I encourage you to immerse yourself in our dynamic community.

Join our diverse range of clubs, sports teams, and research projects. Engage in community service and leadership opportunities. Explore the rich experiences both on our campuses and in the city of Guelph.

Your well-being is our priority. Our faculty, staff, and student wellness teams are dedicated to supporting you in every aspect of your university experience. For new students, resources like STARTuofg.ca offers valuable information about important dates, opportunities, and Orientation Week activities.

Our commitment to your well-being is closely tied to our values of inclusivity and belonging. We strive to create a welcoming environment where every student can learn, grow, and pursue their passions.

Thank you for choosing to be a part of our community. I look forward to meeting you on campus and wish you a successful and fulfilling academic year. You can always reach me on X at @UofGPresident or by email at president@uoguelph.ca.

Dr. Charlotte Yates President and Vice-Chancellor

Welcome to the 2024-2025 academic year! As the Vice-Provost (Student Affairs), I am delighted to welcome both new and returning students to our vibrant Gryphon community.

The Student Affairs team is dedicated to enriching your student experience through a diverse array of programs and services designed to support you at every stage of your academic journey. Our aim is to help you achieve your goals while growing as a person, scholar, and citizen.

I encourage you to explore the many exciting opportunities available to you at the University of Guelph. Engage with GryphLife to discover clubs, events and activities that align with your interests. Get involved with Gryphons Athletics by registering for intramurals, or cheer-on our varsity athletes by attending a game. You can also make a difference by participating in student government, where you can help shape the future of our U of G community.

We want your University experience to meet all your expectations. However, it is important to know that it is natural to encounter challenges along the way. When difficulties arise, whether academic or personal, please do not hesitate to reach out for help. We offer a comprehensive range of support services to assist you. Connect with your program counsellor or visit the Library’s Learning Commons for academic support or contact Student Wellness for counselling, accessibility or medical services.

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

Wishing you all a successful and fulfilling academic year ahead!

Dr. Melinda Scott Vice-Provost (Student Affairs) University of Guelph

On behalf of the City of Guelph, I'm thrilled to welcome new and returning Gryphons!

The University of Guelph continues to attract great minds and talents to our city. Students bring a youthful energy to our city and help make us a diverse and thriving community.

Whether you come from near or far, I want you to feel at home in Guelph. Explore all that Guelph has to offer beyond campus. Visit guelph.ca for information about transit, parks, recreation facilities, parking, bylaws, our three-stream waste collection, and much more. You can also follow the City of Guelph on Instagram, X, Facebook, or YouTube to learn about what’s going on in the city.

Again, welcome to Guelph! All the best for a fantastic year.

Sincerely,

Cam Guthrie Mayor of Guelph

WELCOME BACK

Dear Gryphons,

On behalf of The Ontarion, welcome to the 2024-2025 school year!

This year is sure to be a great one at the University of Guelph. Every year, when fall comes, our community gets reinvigorated with fresh life and inspiration. Once the students come back, so does Guelph in all of its glory. Thanks for being a part of that.

The issue you are currently reading is our back-to-school guide, Guelph 101. For years, The Ontarion has created a backto-school guide to help new and returning students adjust to the campus life. This issue is meant to teach you about the great city you chose to work, study, and live in. Even if you’re not living on campus, this issue was created

from The Editor

with the intention of telling you about all of the things the University of Guelph has to offerand there’s a lot.

Since 1951, The Ontarion has been the University of Guelph’s independent campus newspaper.

We’re a non-profit organization that is separate from the University of Guelph, which means we get to cover things that our readers really care about and want to learn more about. In addition, we provide real-world opportunities for our volunteer reporters, photographers and board members.

For over 70 years, we’ve been covering issues that matter to students. Whether it be covering the latest campus controversy, letting you know about the coolest on-campus concerts or speaking with interesting community members, The Ontarion has done it all. This year will be no exception. We are committed to

bringing you the latest in what is happening around campus and in Guelph.

During all of this we are still hard at work with our behind the scenes projects. Over the last year, we’ve begun digitizing our archives for public use. During this process, we’ve been pulling interesting archival pieces to include in our print issues to let our audience in on what they can expect once we have a fully digital set of archives to look through.

We’ve also completely rebuilt our website to better serve our community and get readers where they really want to be. There will be lots of online exclusives this year, so make sure to check out theontarion.com every now and then to see what we’re up to and what we’re covering.

In 2024, journalism is needed now more than ever. It’s hard

to wade through all of the content on TikTok and Instagram and figure out what is actually going on. That’s where The Ontarion comes in. Over the next year, we’re working on developing a media literacy toolkit that will help students and community members tell fact from fiction. Especially with artificial intelligence on the rise, these tools and skills are even more crucial to have, and we’re looking forward to sharing them with you.

Our news coverage will continue to remain factual, truthful and ethical, even with the rise of new technologies. We will remain steadfast in our commitment to honest reporting and teaching others the value of true journalism. We’ll also continue our commitment to teaching the next generation of writers and photographers the fundamentals of journalism.

So, if you’re interested in learning more about what we do or how to get involved come see us! We’re located on the second floor of the University Centre in UC 264, (beside the Brass Taps). We’re always interested in speaking with people who are interested in learning more about the news and how our organization works.

Enjoy your time at the University of Guelph. The city you study, work and live in is pretty great. Keep an eye on The Ontarion if you’re ever looking for event inspo, or wanting to know what’s happening in and around campus. We’re looking forward to meeting you!

Taylor Pipe Editor-in-Chief

CAMPUS 101

Getting to know your Central Student Association

When it comes to student advocacy, resources and events at the University of Guelph, the Central Student Association, (CSA), is at the center.

For years, the association has been a voice for the students and worked to provide them with the tools they need to make their campus experience more enjoyable. The 2024-2025 school year will be no exception.

The Ontarion spoke with CSA president, Hartej Singh, to learn more about what the CSA offers new and returning students on campus.

“I believe there are a lot of things that the CSA provides,” Singh said. “Broadly speaking, we have nine to 10 services that we have on our campus currently which are actively running.”

Within those services are

the CSA menstrual hygiene initiative, student health and dental benefits, The Bullring, the SafeWalk program and bus pass services.

Singh highlighted some of the other services that the CSA offers students, like their printing services.

We offer the cheapest printing services here on our campus,” he said.

He also highlighted the Student Help and Advocacy Centre, (SHAC).

“SHAC is another thing we provide… which is legal advice to our students based on their rent agreements,” he explained.

Singh also touched on the CSA’s Food Bank, and how it is more important than ever for students to have access to food security.

“Our Food Bank is a very big service that we provide and is being utilized by a lot of students right now,” he explained. “We are looking forward to expanding it. At the same time, we’re fighting against food insecurity, another issue that we see on our campus.”

Expanding the Food Bank services is just one of the goals the CSA has for the upcoming year.

“I would say we’re on a very big roadmap right now,” Singh said.

Singh explained that part of expanding the food bank is having new collaborations with different organizations.

He also said the CSA is try-

ing to expand late-night study spots for students, and expanding more existing services, like the Bike Centre.

Singh encouraged students to pay attention to the CSA and actively engage with the association.

“Every student who pays fees to the university needs to make sure that they care about the CSA,” he said. “We are [here] because of them. We will help them stand along with us, and we will stand with them whenever they need support.”

He used the CSA’s vocal stance opposing Navitas - a for-profit international student recruitment organization, as an example of student advocacy on behalf of the CSA.

“We are raising our voice to university admin so that we can make sure that we provide a better solution and so that each student experience is really good on the campus and off campus as well,” he said.

For students who want to get involved or learn more about the CSA, Singh encouraged them to go up to the second floor of the University Centre and visit the CSA office.

“If you want to get involved - if you want to become a part of this roadmap and journey, we are very happy to welcome you,” Singh said. You can reach out directly to Singh at CSApresident@ uoguelph.ca.

(From left to right) CSA VP External, Natalie Wilkinson, CSA President Hartej Singh, CSA VP Student Experience, Simran Kalra and CSA VP Academic, Bawneet Singh. PHOTO PROVIDED BY CSA

Exploring multifaith resources on campus

Celebrating your spirituality on campus

BENJAMIN SEATON

As you walk through campus on your first day of classes you might notice an old house near Branion Plaza and wonder what it is for. Nestled between the University Centre and the Bullring, the Raithby house is home to the University of Guelph’s MultiFaith Resource Team (MFRT).

What is the Multi-Faith Resource Team?

The MFRT is just about to celebrate its 40th anniversary on campus. The group was intended for interfaith collaboration and learning on campus. The group is made up of faith professionals from a diverse group of spiritual communities who educate and learn from each other.

The Multi-Faith Resource Team's primary goal is to “model [Guelph] as a place where anyone of any religious expression can feel at home,” said Andrew Hyde, campus minister and member of the MFRT.

Each member of the MFRT is attached to a faith community that they do programming for that serves students who identify with or are curious about that faith. The MFRT also acts as a support system and referral network for students who are curious about their faith. Hyde also discussed his commitment to being a “listening ear” for students on campus, offering non-judgemental support regarding whatever their questions or concerns may be.

Clubs and Events

In addition to the MFRT, the CSA has a multitude of clubs representing different faiths. Students looking to get involved in a religious club on campus can find a plethora of different religious clubs on Gryphlife.ca. Additionally, students looking to start their own spiritual club on campus can contact Sonya Wu-Winter, coordinator of MultiFaith programs, to find out about

resources for starting a club on campus at swuwinter@uoguelph. ca.

Students looking to participate in spiritual events on campus can find information about programs through Student Experience on campus on Instagram @ uofgstudentexp.

Students can also participate in Multi-Faith Week hosted by the MFRT. Last year, Multi-Faith Week happened during the week of Feb. 5 to Feb. 9, and hosted many events designed to engage students in spiritual learning. Some of these events included a food drive, a spiritual fair hosted in the University Centre, and a dinner hosted at Peter Clark Hall.

Religious spaces

There are many religious spaces available to students located both on and off campus.

For Christian students, the Newman Centre, located at 325 Gordon St, is described as the “spiritual home of Catholic students at the University of Guelph.”

The Chabad house, also located off campus at 81 College Ave, offers programs, services, and events for Jewish students. Including weekly meals, social events, and services.

Prayer spaces

There is a growing number of prayer spaces on campus available for students. For Muslim students there is the Mussalah prayer room. Located in the basement of the University Centre, the Muslim Prayer Room is open to all campus members during the University Centre hours.

Nearby to the Mussalah, there are two Wudu rooms available for ablution or ritual washing. There are also multifaith prayer rooms located in the University Centre, the library, the ANNU building, and the Summerlee Science complex.

For students looking for a quiet place to unwind, there is also a meditation room located on the top floor of the Raithby house. The Raithby house is also home to the Multi-Faith library, where students can access a wide array of literature on spirituality, religious diversity, grief, and much more.

Accommodations

Students who practice Kosher or Halal diets have plenty of food options available to them right here on campus.

The Chabad house also regularly hosts events that include Kosher meals.

There are many Halal food options available to Muslim students on campus. Mom’s Kitchen in the University Centre, Creelman Hall, and Prairie Hall all have Halal options on their menus. There are also Halal entrees served in the OVC cafeteria, Lennox-Addington residence, and Mountain dining hall.

If you are interested in more information about the food options available or need to request a specialized diet due to allergies or other dietary restrictions, you can contact the Student Nutrition Awareness Program at snap@uoguelph.ca.

For Kosher students, Creelman Hall has a large selection of sandwiches prepared at the Chabad house just off campus. Students can email hospitality services an hour before arriving at Creelman and staff will warm up the sandwich for you. Options include chicken, fish, or meat.

Another important thing for religious students on campus to know about is the religious accommodation policy. Available to religious-identifying students on campus, the policy allows for students to reschedule tests, midterms, and final exams that conflict with holidays that they observe.

Students are encouraged to find out any exam or test conflicts they have during the first couple weeks of classes and declare their conflict so accommodations can be made. Information for this accommodation can be found online at the student experience website or by contacting diversity and human rights. The Multi-Faith Resource Team is also always available for support and consultation.

Raithby House is home to U of G's Multifaith resource team, MFRT. PHOTO PROVIDED BY TAYLOR PIPE

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

GRACE MUIR

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 ran 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.

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. The 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). 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.

The university has a variety of options for people looking to get assistance with mental health from individual and group sessions, to specialized support for victims of abuse. PHOTO PROVIDED BY TAYLOR PIPE

Dorm room essentials

As you embark on this new chapter of your life, ensuring you have all the essential items for your dorm room can make the transition smoother and more comfortable. From practical items to must-have gadgets, this list will guide you through the key items that will help turn your new space into a cozy, functional home away from home.

Whether you're a first-year stepping into university life for the first time or a returning student looking to upgrade your setup, these dorm room essentials will set you up for success. Do keep in mind that although this list covers the core necessities, some residences such as East Village and the East Residence Suites are equipped with a kitchen and will need additional items such as pots, pans, dishes and cutlery.

With items like these, it is best to reach out to your roommates and coordinate what everyone can provide. See page __ for more tips on living with roommates. You can also find an additional packing list on U of G’s Student Housing website at housing.uoguelph.ca/packinglist that tells you what to bring but more specifically what not to bring.

Bathroom essentials

• Shower caddy/basket

• Shower shoes

• Bath towel

• Shower cap

• Bathrobe

• Laundry basket

• Laundry bag for delicates

• Laundry detergent and dryer sheets

• Fabric Stain remover

• Clothing drying rack

Bedroom essentials

• Sheets (fitted and top sheet)

• Bed bug mattress protector

• Comforter or Duvet

• Blankets

• Foam mattress topper

• Pillows

Decorations

• Photos of friends and/or family

• Wall posters

• Fairy lights

• Sticky wall hooks

Organizers for clothes

• Pant hangers or shower curtain rings for pants

• Dividers

• Clothing hangers

• Over-the-door hanger for jackets

Other random

essentials

• Power cord or extension cord

• Garbage bin and bags

• Umbrella

• Calendar

• Full-length mirror

• Advil and Tylenol

Not essential, but beneficial

• Printer

• Brita filter

• Mini fridge

• Door stopper

• Snacks

• Desk lamp

Yes, your favourite Beanie Baby counts as essential decor. PHOTO PROVIDED BY TAYLOR PIPE

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Keeping up with your classes

Putting systems in place can be greatly beneficial to students during their studies

TAYLOR PIPE

Between late night study sessions, meeting new friends and staying on top of assignments, staying organized can get pretty tricky. It’s easy to forget an essay, or be late for an exam when you’re not on top of everything. One of the most important things students can learn is how to stay organized as it not only helps during school, but will greatly benefit their professional careers as well.

Here as some tips for staying organized when everything gets a bit too hectic:

Keep an agenda

In elementary school, we had planners and would have to write down our homework. Our parents would have to sign the planner every night and would know if we were lying about having homework that day. We would also put project deadlines in our planners, and maybe the occasional school dance.

A lot of people ditch the agenda the second we’re allowed to. If we missed assignments in high school, it might not have seemed like a big deal. However, bringing the agenda back could be greatly beneficial for those who may be a little forgetful.

Writing down assignments, meetings with professors, and study sessions can help keep you on track and help break down your day into smaller, more manageable chunks. Plus, agendas are a lot more stylish now compared to the ones we had in third grade.

Have a study buddy

It can be your roommate, your best friend, or somebody you met on your first day of school. Having a study buddy is great for having someone to bounce ideas off and solve problems with. They’ll keep you honest and help you make sense of the content you’re learning.

It’s also nice to have a person who will be a consistent partner throughout university, especially when it comes to group projects.

Also, finding a study buddy in your program can help you make a lifelong friend. Don’t be afraid to ask someone to be your study partner–it might lead to meeting your next best friend!

Take time to organize

One of the best ways to stay organized in today’s technological world is to have a great folder system. Organizing schoolwork into sections like the semester, the class, coursework and study notes is a great way to find files that will be useful when studying.

Cleaning up files also helps students feel less overwhelmed and stressed out. It’s worth taking the time to put together a filing system that works for you and your needs, and it definitely helps students stay organized in the long run. A good filing system is also a useful tool to fall back on when entering the job market as it’s always good to refresh your memory on certain topics before big meetings and job interviews.

Luckily, staying organized isn’t too hard. All it takes is creating a system that will keep you on track and focused on your goals. Once the systems are in place, everything will get a lot easier and more streamlined which will lead to less stress and higher levels of success for students.

ICON BY MAXIM BASINSKI PREMIUM

It's easy to lose track of things like assignments and project deadlines, but a little organization can make everything a lot easier. PHOTO PROVIDED BY TAYLOR PIPE

Sensational Sculptures 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

ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY TAYLOR PIPE

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?

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

War of

The Cannon

“Old Jeremiah, '' also known as the cannon, is an alleged naval gun used by the British in the

1812. Nowadays, the beloved cannon is painted by students at night. Students paint the cannon 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. It still sits there to this day

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.

Being queer in 1st year

Discover U of G’s LGBTQ+ Resources and Communities to meet other queer students this school year

ALYSSA CUNNINGHAM

Embarking on your university journey is an exciting milestone but can also bring a whirlwind of new experiences and challenges. For those who identify as LGBTQ+, this transition can come with unique challenges and opportunities.

This article aims to highlight the resources, groups, and organizations available on campus that cater specifically to the LGBTQ+ community, ensuring that every student can find their place and thrive. Whether you’re looking for support, social connections, or advocacy, the University of Guelph offers a vibrant and welcoming community ready to embrace you.

OUTline

For decades, OUTline has been a cornerstone of support and community for LGBTQ+ students at the University of Guelph. Established in the 1970s from the roots of Guelph Queer Equality, OUTline has grown and evolved, continuously adapting to meet the needs of students exploring questions of sexual orientation and gender identity.

Initially launched as a telephone-based resource, OUTline offered a recorded message that directed users to relevant resources. This soon expanded into a live service staffed by trained student volunteers. Today, OUTline operates an anonymous online chat service, available every evening from 7 to 10 p.m., where students can connect with volunteers about anything on their minds—from coming out and exploring labels to finding specific LGBTQ2IA+ resources.

The online chat platform allows students to seek support in a safe environment, ensuring that their privacy is respected. OUTline is not just a support service; it is a vibrant hub for education, social connection, and community building. Whether through its online presence or in-person events, OUTline offers a space where LGBTQ+ students at the University of Guelph can find understanding, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging.

Out and About

Out and About provides a social discussion space where students can connect, share their stories, and build a supportive community around their experi-

ences with sexual orientation and gender identity. Recognizing that coming out is an ongoing process, Out and About welcomes students at all stages of their journey.

Whether you’re contemplating coming out, have recently taken that step, or are further along in your experience, this program offers a confidential and welcoming environment to discuss challenges, exchange insights, and foster connections. Understanding the importance of privacy, the specific location of the meetings is kept undisclosed online. Interested students are asked to email outandabout@uoguelph.ca to receive the room number, ensuring that the space remains safe and confidential.

At each session, attendees are encouraged to participate at their comfort level, whether that means actively sharing their stories or simply listening to others. The discussions are intentionally unstructured, allowing students to guide conversations based on their current needs and experiences related to coming out. This initiative is open to both undergraduate and graduate students, making it an inclusive space for all who seek community and understanding.

For those looking to support friends or deepen their allyship, the Sexual and Gender Diversity Advisor, Caleb Harwood, is available for one-on-one meetings and can provide additional resources and guidance. You can reach out to them through email at sgd@ uoguelph.ca

Trans and Gender Diverse Students' Social

The Trans & Gender Diverse Students' Social at the University of Guelph offers a unique opportunity for students to come together, share experiences, and build community around their diverse gender identities.

This event, held monthly, welcomes both undergraduate and graduate students, providing a space to explore topics related to gender identity, community, and more, in a supportive and inclusive environment. At this event, the term Trans encompasses a wide range of identities, including Transgender, Non-binary, Genderqueer, Agender, Genderfluid, Two-Spirit*, and others whose identities fall outside of cisgender paradigms.

Recognizing the unique experiences within this spectrum, the social offers a welcoming atmosphere for all who attend. During the social, you’ll engage in fun activities, socialize, and discuss various experiences as Trans and Gender Diverse individuals. The event is designed to be a safer, braver space, where hate of any kind is not tolerated. Attendees are encouraged to participate at their comfort level, whether by sharing their stories or simply listening to others. This approach ensures that everyone feels comfortable and respected, contributing to a sense of mutual trust and community.

Queer/Trans Black & Racialized Students’ Social

The QTBRS Social is a vital space dedicated to fostering connections and community among Black and racialized students who identify as queer or trans. This social serves as a platform for students to share their lived experiences, explore topics related to gender identity, and discuss the unique challenges and triumphs of navigating intersecting identities.

The QTBRS Social emphasizes the importance of community and solidarity. Each discussion delves into various themes, such as finding community, navigating pop culture, and addressing the specific experiences of being part of Black and racialized LGBTQ+ communities. This gathering provides a supportive environment where students can engage in meaningful conversations and form lasting connections.

At the QTBRS Social, the atmosphere is designed to be welcoming and inclusive, allowing participants to engage at their comfort level. Whether students choose to share their stories or listen to others, the space respects each individual’s boundaries and promotes a culture of mutual respect and understanding.

Facilitated by individuals from the university who understand and share these intersecting identities, the QTBRS Social aims to make every attendee feel seen and heard. These facilitators guide the discussions, ensuring they remain relevant and inclusive. By offering a dedicated space for Queer/Trans Black and racialized students, the QTBRS

Social plays a crucial role in promoting inclusivity, understanding, and community.

It ensures that students with these intersecting identities have a supportive network where they can thrive and celebrate their full selves.

LGBTQ2IA+ Weekly Discussion

The LGBTQ2IA+ Weekly Discussion offers a regular opportunity for students to gather, exchange personal journeys, and delve into diverse subjects such as gender roles, queer relationships, “passing” and much more. Each session begins with informal introductions, allowing participants to get comfortable and establish a sense of community. While students are not required to share their names or any personal information, they

are welcome to introduce themselves if they feel comfortable.

The discussions are facilitated by the University of Guelph’s OUTline Program Facilitator, who guides the group through the conversation. Although each week has a designated theme, the discussions often flow naturally, allowing attendees to steer the conversation based on their interests and experiences. The LGBTQ2IA+ Weekly Discussion is more than just a meeting; it is a space where students can build connections, share their stories, and find support within the university community.

If you haven’t come across something that piques your interest in this list don’t stress! OUTline hosts many other events such as its Lego Social, Minecraft Meet, and Book Club. Check out the OUTline page on Gryphlife.

Events like socials, discussions and lego nights can help LGBTQ+ students meet other LGBTQ+ students. PHOTO PROVIDED BY ILIA BRONSKIY/ UNSPLASH

A look at U of G’s Mature Student Association

The GMSA has become a staple in the mature student experience, here’s why

As a mature student, you may be a little overwhelmed with university. While most first-year students are bright-eyed, bushy-tailed kids fresh out of high school, there is always a group of first year students who have lived experiences through their age. They may be coming back to school to finish a degree they were unable to finish, they may be switching careers, or they may have never attended post-secondary school at all.

If you’re one of these people, you might want to consider getting in touch with the Guelph Mature Student Association, (GMSA).

Nicole Geddes, current president of the GMSA, spoke with The Ontarion about her experience as a member of the GMSA prior to becoming president.

“Going through it myself, it's nice to be able to relate to the other students,” Geddes said. “I came from a career as a lot of other people have, so it's a big change. It was really nice to have the support.”

Geddes explained that being part of the club helped her connect with other students and understand the unique challenges that mature students face.

She said the biggest thing the GMSA has done for her was provide support.

“We're all supporting each other,” she said. “Most people have taken classes already. So, there's resources to talk about classes, talk about professors, talk about your majors, talk about your minors, talk about how to do things.”

Geddes also said the GMSA has a lounge on the fifth floor of the University Centre for its members with amenities like a kitchenette with a fridge and microwave, study space and lockers for their members. The cost to use the lounge is $15 per year, with an additional cost

for locker rental.

“Those are some of our great resources,” Geddes said. “We also have some office supplies too. So staplers, tons of markers, whiteboard markers, highlighters … just lots of things for students to use.”

For Geddes, becoming president is a full circle moment, as she joined the GMSA in her first year at U of G.

“I was fresh coming in, had no idea how to tackle University as a mature student and balance everything in life,” she said.

She recalled a moment where she asked her fellow club members how to properly cite a source and within seconds someone had helped her out.

“Now that I’m going into my third year, I found that I've taken on that role for students that are just coming in,” she said.

Mature students who are looking to get involved with the GMSA are encouraged to email mature@uoguelph.ca.

“Honestly, it's such a great community, and I'm very thankful I found everyone,” Geddes said.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY TAYLOR PIPE

The GMSA lounge can be found on the fifth floor of the University Centre.

Nicole Geddes, current president of the GMSA, spoke with The Ontarion about her experience as a member of the GMSA prior to becoming president.

Keeping the peace while living with roommates

From setting expectations to fostering friendships, find out how to make roommate life enjoyable and productive

Living with roommates is an experience that can be both enriching and challenging. Whether you're moving in with friends or complete strangers, learning to navigate shared spaces, responsibilities, and different personalities is crucial.

This guide will provide you with some tips and insights to help you build an easy-going living environment. From setting ground rules and effective communication to handling conflicts and creating a positive atmosphere, our 101 on living with roommates will equip you with the knowledge and strategies needed for a successful and enjoyable living environment.

Connect before the move-in process

Meeting a new roommate for the first time can be daunting, especially when you’ll be living together for the year. To ease the transition, it’s a good idea to reach out before move-in day and get to know each other.

You can chat about each other's likes and dislikes, what program you’ll be going into, or what

you’re looking forward to once school starts. Even a brief conversation can help calm any nerves.

Additionally, it allows you to coordinate what each of you can bring to your shared space. For instance, discussing who will bring what can prevent duplicate items and ensure everything is shared equally if you’re moving into a residence with a fully equipped kitchen, like East Village or the East Residence Suites.

Set boundaries

When living with another person it is always good to go over some ground rules before moving in. Setting boundaries is crucial for maintaining an enjoyable living environment. It’s important to establish clear expectations regarding personal space, noise levels, cleaning responsibilities, and guest policies. This can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts down the road.

For instance, agree on quiet hours for studying or sleeping, decide how often to clean shared areas, and communicate any preferences about having friends over.

ALYSSA CUNNINGHAM

By respecting each other’s boundaries, you create a comfortable and respectful living space for everyone.

When setting boundaries, it's also helpful to consider lifestyle differences. Discuss morning and night routines to accommodate each other's schedules. If one roommate is an early riser while the other prefers late nights, finding a middle ground is essential. Additionally, talk about sharing items like food, toiletries, and kitchen supplies to avoid any assumptions or miscommunications. Establishing these boundaries early on sets a positive tone for your living arrangement and helps build mutual respect and understanding.

Build positive and open communication

Effective communication is the foundation of any successful roommate relationship. From the start, try to create an environment where both of you feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and concerns. This could be through

regular check-ins to address any issues before they escalate and if a problem does come up, approach it calmly and respectfully, focusing on finding a solution rather than assigning blame.

Open communication not only helps resolve conflicts but also strengthens your relationship, making living together more enjoyable and supportive. Consider creating a system for ongoing communication, something as simple as asking your roommate how they’ve been feeling with school, friends or work lets them know that they can confide in you. Additionally, be mindful of your communication style. Use "I" statements to express your feelings and needs without sounding accusatory. For example, instead of saying "You never clean up," try "I feel frustrated when our space is left messy." This approach encourages a more productive and empathetic dialogue.

Remember to enjoy your time together

Living with a roommate offers a unique opportunity to build

a meaningful friendship. While it’s important to respect each other’s space and time, also make an effort to spend quality time together. Whether it’s cooking a meal, watching a movie, or exploring U of G’s campus, shared experiences can create lasting memories. Balancing personal time with togetherness helps foster a positive living environment where both roommates feel valued and connected. Enjoying your time together can make your living situation a highlight of your college experience. Find activities that both of you enjoy and can look forward to, such as weekly game nights, study sessions, or attending campus events. Additionally, be open to learning from each other and embracing new experiences. Your roommate may introduce you to new hobbies, cultures, or perspectives that can enrich your college journey.

Remember, the key to enjoying your time together is to maintain a balance between fun and respect, ensuring that both roommates feel comfortable and happy in their shared home.

Storing your large metal box close to class

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

OLIVER BULLINGHAM

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 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 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. These per-

mits 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.

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. 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 6am 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 anywhere in Guelph, for free and without having to find a parking spot.

Last, if you don’t pay upfront you might end up paying more down the line. 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.

Campus parking lots are colour-coded based on proximity to classes and campus buildings. PHOTO PROVIDED BY TAYLOR PIPE

Being an international student on campus

How to make the most out of studying abroad in Canada

TAYLOR PIPE

Being an international student can be tough. There’s cultural differences, a completely new and confusing environment and a possible language barrier. Luckily the University of Guelph has plenty of resources for students studying abroad in Canada.

START International Orientation

Before the school year even kicks off, there is a special orientation for international students, new permanent residents, exchange students and out-of-country Canadians. According to the START International webpage, the orientation introduces students to various resources on campus, the campus environment and what to expect during their time at U of G. Various sessions cover cultural adjustment and other things like dressing for the cold Canadian seasons.

For further information you can check out the International

Student Connections page on Gryphlife.ca.

International Student Advisors

International Student Advisors, (ISA’s), providing advice for international students in a one-onone format. They can help with a variety of different things like helping to connect with others on campus, figuring out how to get work on or off campus and feeling homesick.

In addition, ISA’s can help students extend their study permits, obtain spousal permits or apply for temporary residence visas. For more information reach out to ISA Matthew Keefe at mkeefe@uoguelph.ca.

English Language Support

English Language Support helps students with reading, writing and understanding the english language. If english isn’t your na-

tive tongue, there are individual and group workshops available to those hoping to better their skills.

For more information on booking an appointment with English Language Support visit the Open Learning and Educational Support office in Johnston Hall.

The

International Student Organization

The International Student Organization, (ISO) is committed to teaching international students about university life and all it has to offer. They provide transitional and social support to international students starting off on campus and can point you in the right direction when it comes to immigration documents, on and off campus housing, as well as paying your tuition.

The ISO lounge is located in UC 535 for those who want to use the space for studying or relaxation. They also hold many events for in-

ternational students throughout the school year.

Although studying abroad can be difficult and make you feel lonely, there are plenty of ways to

meet other students in the same position as you and there are plenty of resources to make your stay in Canada the dream experience you thought it would be.

From support with English, to meeting with an international student advisor, the U of G has you covered during your post-secondary education in Canada. PHOTO PROVIDED BY ANDREA PIACQUADIO/PEXELS

CLUB QUIZ

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'SYOU GOT POLITICAL!

Model United Nations Club

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

MOSTLY 2'SYOU GOT CULTURAL! International Student Organization

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

MOSTLY 3'S - FUN & GAMES Jugglers of The University of Guelph

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

MOSTLY 4'SARTS & CULTURE

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

MOSTLY 5'SSUSTAINABILITY & INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

The Wildlife Club

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

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 dentist 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 Trappers

Go for a bike ride at Guelph Lake

Learn the difference between MacKinnon, MacLachlan, MacNaughton 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

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 vegan for a week

Do 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

Get serenaded at Bob's Dogs

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 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

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

Transitioning from high school to university

How I survived my post-secondary metamorphosis

SARA MENAHEMOV

On a random Tuesday at 6 am in the morning, I woke up, opened my phone, and saw that I got an email. Once I realized that it was from the University of Guelph, I quickly sat up and opened it.

It was already May and I was anxiously waiting to hear back from the universities I applied to. Once the confetti blew up on my screen, I knew that I was getting a once in a lifetime opportunity.

I graduated high school and the summer was ending, but I had this heavy burden on my chest like what was coming next was unavoidable and I didn’t know what to do. I had no idea what university would look like, what my classes would teach me, how I would make friends in a new city, what I planned to do with my degree, or if my degree was worth it at all.

This is what I did, and what I should’ve done, that made (or could’ve made) my university experience so much more than I expected:

Plan everything

I’m a chronic planner in any situation, but because the idea of starting university stressed me so much, I planned more than I thought I needed to. Now, you don’t have to do this if you want to be even more stressed out by trying to find classes that fit your

schedule with available times and then hitting the “register” button at 8 am in the morning with 10,000 other kids while WebAdvisor crashes, but I do suggest that you plan all of your classes for the next three or four years in advance.

The second you get your WebAdvisor account for the first time, look at your “My Progress” page and see what classes are mandatory for your degree. Then, search these classes in the Course Catalog and when they are available. Plan them in the semester/ year they are being given and go to your “Plan your Degree and & Register for Classes” page to rearrange them in the way that works for you and your degree requirements.

Remember that if a class doesn’t fit into a semester or a year when that class is normally taken, you can do that class in another year. You can also make sure to plan the class in a year that it fits into such as an “odd year” or an “even year”. Each semester, before your registration window, update these classes and see if those classes have available times in the semester you originally planned them in.

If you have any other questions, email your academic advisor, faculty advisors, and even the professors if the class you are registering for is full or you missed the registration deadline.

Change your mindset

In high school, I did not care about passing my classes until I was applying to university. When I actually got into university and went to my first class, the workload overwhelmed me. Not trying was not possible anymore.

Even though university is technically much harder, and there is so much more work, you do actually interesting work. Every class you take can either make or break your university experience, but each class is a learning opportunity to learn more and do better. Also, you are paying for your education, so think of learning as a thing you get to do, rather than a thing that you have to.

Even if you do a major that doesn’t appeal to you, try to make it as enjoyable as you can. You can do that by actually trying in your classes and doing outside research about what you’re learning. It will not only give you a better grade, but you can say you actually learned something and you could always apply it to real world experiences.

Talk to your professors

Your professors are there to help you learn, but they are also people. Unlike in high school, they won’t remind you when you have an assignment due or call your parents if you missed a day,

but they can tell you their experiences in the field that they teach. You can ask them questions about their experiences and how they got to where they are, or what are their hobbies or what they think of a political issue. Your professors might have a PhD, and they might be older than you, but there isn’t a power struggle between them and you like there was in high school with your teachers.

Professors tend to see their students as adults, and they talk to them in the same manner that they talk to their peers. Not to mention, if you go to a professor’s office hours, they will be more willing to help you with your assignments, ask any “stupid” questions that you won’t want to ask in class, and perhaps would be more willing to accommodate you.

Ask questions

This relates to the previous point, but ask the people around you when you need help If you don’t know anything about Guelph, there are many resources that can help you find out information on how to pay your tuition, how to register for classes, and how many classes to take.

They all provide information about the struggle of being a first time student. Reddit is also a big help but the school website is the hub of all things Guelph. If you need any specific information

about classes, contact the people in the first point above. You can even ask upper year students for their advice from their experience in Guelph.

Enjoy your time

Learning is the number one aspect of university, but having fun is another one that is often forgotten when bombarded with assignments and exams to study for. Being an adult means finally doing things that you dreamt of doing as a kid.

No one is looking after you, telling you when to go to sleep, or what you can or cannot do. You are on your own and that means more responsibility but that also means more freedom to become who you want to be.

It might feel scary and it might be hard, but there are always people that are around to help you make your first year less stressful and your time at Guelph unforgettable. When you’re in high school and you imagine university kids, you have this idea that they’re adults who have everything figured out and are ready for anything.

Although, that is the least bit true, and no one has any idea what they’re doing. You did the same when you were in middle school and elementary school, but you got through that, you got through high school, and you will get through this.

Even though university is hard work, you get to learn about things you're actually interested in and are going to use. PHOTO PROVIDED BY TAYLOR PIPE

Making things work near, far, wherever you are

How to navigate long distance relationships

TAYLOR PIPE

So, you’re in a Long Distance Relationship, (LDR). You might be wondering what will happen between you and your partner. Although LDR’s can be tricky, they are not a death sentence for relationships.

At the end of the day, it takes a lot of trust and open communication. If you’re open to making your LDR work, try some of these tips.

Discuss expectations

The first thing to do when deciding to commit to a LDR is asking each other if you truly want to make this work. It can be scary, especially if the answer is no. But heartbreak now is better than heartbreak down the line. You might even be pleasantly surprised with your current partner’s answer and willingness to speak freely about how they feel about committing to your relationship.

During this conversation, ask yourself and your partner what they truly want. Do you want a committed relationship? Do you want to try an open relationship? Do you want to only be holiday lovers? There are a lot of different variables and ways to make relationships work in university. Make sure to explore all avenues with your partner, and don’t be afraid to go against the grain when choosing how to best love one another from afar.

Schedule time together

The power of technology has drastically changed the landscape of LDR’s. Gone are the days of sending your lover a letter sprayed with perfume. Now, people often just text you or send you a DM on your Instagram. Since there is a plethora of options for virtually spending time together, figure out what works best for you.

A lot of people in LDRs will schedule zoom calls, or dates. This is great because you know when you’ll be speaking to the person next and you know that they’ll be there. You schedule hang out time when you’re in the same area, why not when you’re far away?

There’s also things you can do on zoom calls like playing video games online together. If you both have gaming consoles, try to find a two-player game that you can complete together. Or, try to play one of the cheesy games on your video call app.

You can also schedule texting and no texting time. If you find you’re being texted too much, or like your partner isn’t giving you the space you need, let them know. Create those healthy boundaries early so you’re both clear with expectations.

Focus on quality over quantity

If you can’t schedule daily zoom calls, or make messaging each other work all the time, focus on quality not quantity. You can both set up at-home date nights and video chat while acting like you’re on a date. You can ask each other questions about how you feel, or your dreams. Use this time to continue connecting with your partner instead of just going to the old, “Hey how are you?”

Take the time to listen to your partner’s feelings when you do get to spend time together. Ask them if there’s anything you can improve on, or let them know what they can do for you. Be clear with what you want and find out what they want. You can always work things out and improve your relationship.

Build trust

Trust is key when it comes to LDRs. You need to know that you’re able to trust the person you’re in a relationship with. Make sure to keep communication open and honest. If something is bothering you, let the person know. It’s hard to be a mind reader from kilometres away.

At the same time, try to find a balance between being clingy, and being communicative. Make sure you give the other person time to respond to how your feeling and don’t jump to conclusions if they aren’t responding to your texts right away.

A big theme behind making LDRs work is finding what works best for you. Maybe you and your partner want to be in constant communication, maybe you’re both okay with going a few days without talking to each other. No relationship is the same, and the way we show love is unique in every relationship.

Problem solve through open communication

If you’re having problems with your LDR just remember to keep the line of communication open. You both have gone through the trouble of finding what works for you, so try to mix things up if things are getting stale or you’re feeling frustrated. Make sure you let your partner know your worries. Help them help you.

Remember to keep your communication open and honest. Tell each other how you’re feeling presently. Tell them your worries, or what makes you happy. By letting them know how you’re feeling, you let them know what they can do on their end to make things right.

Unfortunately, this may not work for everyone.LDRs are hard work on top of university, work and social life. If you can make it work - good for you! If you can’t, it’ll be okay. There are always other (closer) fish in the sea.

Make sure to explore all avenues with your partner, and don’t be afraid to go against the grain when choosing how to best love one another from afar. PHOTO PROVIDED BY COTTONBRO STUDIOS/PEXELS

Being safe is sexy

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

ANDREEA BURLACU & TAYLOR PIPE

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.

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 5 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 three 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.

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 3 months.

Birth Control Patch

93% effective

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

and contraceptives go hand-in-hand. PHOTO PROVIDED BY TAYLOR PIPE

A look at Guelph’s natural spaces

Enjoying the stunning nature that surrounds the Royal City

WERONIKA SZCZYPKA

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. This article narrows in on 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 boardwalks 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 Area/PreservationConservation Park

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

If you’re looking to connect with nature while in the city, check out some of Guelph’s natural spaces and embrace the outdoors. PHOTO PROVIDED BY TAYLOR PIPE

Making friends in university

You might not catch a friend in a sea of people, but you will catch a fish

SARA MENAHEMOV

Coming to a new place and knowing not one person can be lonely, especially in a new city. It might seem hard to know how to find the right people in the right environments, but with these few steps, you can find the people that you were looking for in the places you didn’t think you would.

Follow your graduating class' social media accounts

I recommend doing this if you truly know no one in Guelph and have never been to Guelph but you want to meet fellow classmates in your year. These accounts usually post the people that DM them to put themselves out there as a way to get to know more people.

If you find someone interesting, you can always DM them and get to know them. Granted, you might never see these people in person, because the school is so big, but it could at least ease your stress of being alone when the school year starts, since you know at least one person. You never know, you might become best friends.

Do

everything, go everywhere

Do all of the O-week activities, even if they sound boring. Go to all of the events during that first week. That is when you find those like-minded people that you might not have thought that you would meet your first week. Or, better yet, you meet people that

are different from you that might or might not click with.

That is the joy of O-week, and of university in general, that you get to meet more people that you could’ve ever dreamed of meeting. It is truly the best time to socialize and talk to everyone that you come in contact with.

As a side note, when you meet someone, don’t ask them the generic “What’s your major?” question, since it usually doesn’t matter and says nothing about the person. Instead, ask them more questions about themselves, such as what are their hobbies, what career they are hoping to go into after graduating, and where they are from - most people are not from Guelph, you’d be surprised.

Then, if the conversation continues, ask them about their major and more details about it.

People respond better to you actually getting to know them as a person, rather than as a student.

Join clubs

Similarly to going to random activities, join clubs that seem even mildly interesting to you. It’s enjoyable to be around people that have the same mindset as you, same hobbies as you, and same goals as you, so you can relate to them and have at least one thing to spark a conversation about. There are hundreds of clubs on campus, so you’re bound to find a club that speaks to you.

Go to the library

Hands down the best place to meet other students, and other

first years, is the library; specifically the fourth floor. The “loud floor” as some people call it, is a combustion of students that like to hang out with their friends and study with the ambient noise of others’ conversations.

With many different sitting arrangements including couches, chairs, tables, and window tables, the 4th floor is a great environment for socializing and meeting friends of friends of roommates or people that you already knew.

Talk to your roommates

Nobody likes to have an awkward roommate relationship when you have to live with that person for an entire year. Try to get to know them, play games together, or go out to the clubs or bars together. Roommates are probably the easiest friends to make because you will be in close proximity to them for the entire school year, you might as well make it a pleasant experience.

The same thing applies to floor mates, as you will probably have to share a bathroom with them and you will run into them in the bathroom or around the bathroom - since we all have to use it at some point, so why not ask them what kind of animal they would be, or what major they would least likely date?

Go to class

The most obvious, but the most overlooked. In class, you get to learn something important, (or not important), and you also get to talk to other people about that

important subject, or tell someone you like their hair or their outfit. Even just paying someone a compliment can steer you into a conversation with someone interesting.

I remember in my first year, I took an intro to sociology course and, while the class work was deliberating, the professor made us talk to the person beside us and gave us a couple of minutes to converse about the week’s topic. In that class, I talked to people who I wouldn’t usually approach because it seemed too intimidating for me. However, through that class I learned that people are just as scared to talk to others as you are, and it always seems bigger in your head than it actually is.

Go to the gym

If you don’t like physical exercise, this might not apply to you, but the gym can be a great place to work out and socialize at the same time. It might seem daunting talking to gym bros or approaching fit girls but, if they seem to be in your year, they are probably also looking to find someone to go to

the gym with. As well, if you meet someone that wants to start going to the gym and you do too, you can both motivate each other by keeping each other accountable.

Even though I made making friends in university to be the easiest thing in the world, with all of the resources you have, keep in mind that not everyone has your best interest at heart. Pick your friends wisely, as the people you surround yourself with are a reflection of you and they make up who you are.

Coming up to people and starting up a conversation is hard when you put people on a pedestal, but every first year student comes with the impression that they will meet new people, and everyone is nervous when meeting someone new.

During your time in university, you will surely meet someone who will feel like you’ve known them your entire life, or you could meet so many people that you will never see again. That is what’s fun about university, you get to learn new things about the world, about other people, and about yourself.

Simple things like attending O -week, classes and the gym can all be ways to make friends. PHOTO PROVIDED BY TAYLOR PIPE

Work hard, play hard

Can you really balance school, a social life and working?

TAYLOR

PIPE

There are so many things to do in university, and it can be overwhelming to figure it all out. You hear about people being able to have it all - a social life, good grades and time to work. But sometimes it can seem like there just aren’t enough hours in a day to get what you want done.

Here are some options for those looking to have it all, without sacrificing their sanity.

Use a time organizer

One of the best things to do if you’re looking to manage your time is to literally get a time organizer. It may seem old school, or even silly to you to be scheduling time to watch your favourite TV shows, but it’ll pay off. You’ll truly be able to relax if you know you’ve budgeted your time well.

Invest in an agenda. Seriously. A book that helps you be honest and aware of deadlines is a great idea. If you can, try to find one with times of the day. That way you can plan to study in the morning, attend class at noon and work in the evening. Laying everything out in an agenda can help make sure you don’t get things mixed up too. You’ll always know when your shift is, and when the next assignment is due.

If you’re not a fan of an oldschool agenda, use your phone to do the same thing. All smartphones come with calendar apps and you can sync them up to your emails to keep track of events you’re invited to, or meetings you might need to attend. Phones can even set up alarms to coincide with your schedule, so you know exactly what time you need to leave to catch your bus.

Set aside study time

When scheduling out your time, make sure to leave space for study. It can be very easy to forget to study when you have all these assignments due and a job to upkeep. Set aside at least a couple of hours a day to ensure you’re on top of your classes and well acquainted with the information you need to pass an exam.

If you have trouble with distractions, put your phone on do not disturb mode. You can set up your phone to put these modes on during certain times of the day. You can even set it up so that your phone only mutes certain apps, like Snapchat or TikTok, during study time.

You can also set the mood for studying. Put on some chill lofi

beats, maybe dim the lights a little and light a candle. Really get into the ritual of studying and creating an environment that allows your mind to absorb everything it’s learning.

Just remember, don’t put studying on the back burner. It may burn you later.

Realize you might have to make sacrifices

You may have to make sacrifices to get everything done, and that is okay. It sucks to be the one who can’t attend something because you have an essay due at midnight. Or perhaps you can’t go to the bar because you have to work.

Welcome to adulthood - it sucks and we don’t have jackets. However, if you’re making the proper sacrifices, you won’t be like your friends that are checking their emails from their professors when you do go out for a night. You’ll have everything figured out so you don’t have to worry about your project group chat. You’ll genuinely be able to enjoy yourself more. Prioritizing over partying can suck sometimes, but if you do it properly, it makes the party better.

Plan ahead for big events

If you do know in advance that you have a night out with friends coming up, or maybe a concert you’d like to attend, plan ahead. You can always alter your schedule to make it work best for you. Get your assignments done in advance so you aren’t stressing out and you’ll be able to truly take a load off.

In addition, take time to study early in the day. If you can get things out of the way to clear up your evening, then you won’t have to worry about whether you studied or not.

If your work schedule conflicts with your plans, book it off as early as possible, or try to get a coworker to swap shifts as soon as possible. This shows accountability on your part, and will ensure nobody is upset with you for missing work. You can always offer to take the shift of the person that takes yours to make things even.

Work schedules

Speaking of your work schedule, it can be stressful to try to figure out how to balance it all. This is where open com-

munication with management is key. When they hired you, they knew you were a student. Don’t be afraid to ask for them to accommodate hours for your studies.

You can always assess how much time you are working, and decide that it’s too much. You can ask for your hours to be cut back and see if they can work around your schedule instead of you working around theirs.

In addition, be willing to step back from things if you have the means. It’s easy for everything to be overwhelming and the added stress of a part-time job can really make things more complicated than they need to be. However, most students will have to work.

If you’re finding yourself worried about time and always late, take a step back and see if there are ways you can improve your time management skills. If you don’t know where to begin, consider how much time it takes to do certain things during the week, and do from there. It’s a transitionary period, and schedules will have to transition to best meet your needs. But you will get through this and you will get your stuff done on time with ease.

Don't let distractions, like your Nintendo, stop you from your goals. PHOTO PROVIDED BY TAYLOR PIPE

How do I save money in university?

Easy and accessible ways to save money for students on a budget

TAYLOR PIPE

During university, it can be difficult to save money. Between tuition payments, textbooks, groceries, rent and the occasional night out, things can get out of control really quickly.Luckily, there are ways to save money and be budget savvy while you’re working on your post-secondary studies.

Grocery sale items

One of the best ways to save money while grocery shopping is to shop sales. Almost all grocery stores have online flyers that you can look at before you go. This will make meal planning easier, as you know what meals you’ll be making and what ingredients you need to shop for before even entering the store.

While you're shopping, take notice of the price per weight. Usually, there will be two sizes of a particular item to choose from. Most of the time, it actually costs more to buy the smaller item if you do some quick math. Also, larger quantities will last longer in the long run and may be worth the extra $1.29.

Another thing you can do in the grocery store is buy the bigger packages of meat and separate it into smaller portions for multiple meals. Things like chicken breasts, ground beef and sausages are great items to buy in larger quantities, and freeze until use.

Dollar stores

Dollar stores might seem cheap, but you’d be surprised at what you can find there. They often have brand name hair products, like shampoo and conditioner, for those who don’t want to spend $10 per bottle. There’s also great soaps, body washes and shaving supplies as well that you can find on the low-low at dollar stores.

Another thing that dollar stores are great for is cleaning supplies. You don’t need to spend $15 on a broom when you can get a decent one at the dollar store for $3. In addition, they also have brand name cleaning solutions and laundry detergent for those looking to spread their dollar a little further.

Another thing that dollar stores have is cheap food. Things like Easy-Mac, chips and grains can be found in many dollar stores, often at a cheaper price than grocery stores. This can be especially helpful if you’re planning a movie night and need lots of different snack items to suit a variety of tastes.

Reuse

Channel your inner grandma by finding multiple uses for things. You can often reuse items around the house like boxes for storage, containers for various items and food scraps for compost if you have plants or a garden.

Investing in some great reusable containers is a great way to save money on food. You can often find plastic, or glass containers that are perfect for storing leftovers in. This way, you can make a little extra for dinner and bring it to school. You don’t have to spend $12 on chicken strips every day if you can make them at home and bring them in.

You can also wash differeent plastic bags, like ziplocs and bread bags to reuse them for food storage. Washing and reusing these bags not only saves you money on bags, but also helps save the environment from single-use plastics too!

Clothing swap

For any fashionistas, a clothing swap is a fun way to save money and create a social atmosphere. If you have friends in similar sizes, ask them to bring some of their clothing to your swap. This is a great way to add new pieces into your wardrobe and also is a brilliant way to keep clothes you may no longer need in use. It also saves room in your closet.

You can do clothing swaps as often as you’d like. Some do clothing swaps on a seasonal basis to refresh wardrobes every few months. Some do them once a year. Either way, it’s a good way to create a circular fashion cycle within your friend group while also looking stylish and enjoying a social gathering.

Avoid using credit

If you’re able to, avoid using credit cards to pay the bills, or for frivolous purchases. Credit debt can pile up really quickly, especially if you’re only able to make minimum payments. On top of that, credit cards charge interest - so you’re actually paying more for the purchases you’re making at the end of the day.

Only use credit cards if absolutely necessary. You don’t want to be in a credit hole before you’re out of university. Remember they are for emergencies only and you will be fine!

Overall, budgeting can be scary. But using some of these savvy hacks can help you save money, eat well, look good and live your best life while on campus.

Don't eat your money, shop sales with grocery flyers and some strategic planning. PHOTO PROVIDED BY TAYLOR PIPE

student's guide to transportation options

As a student at the University of Guelph, getting around the city is easy and convenient, thanks to a variety of transportation options tailored to fit your needs. Whether you prefer public transit, taxis, rideshares, or cycling, there's a way for everyone to move around efficiently and sustainably.

One of the most convenient and cost-effective ways to travel around Guelph is by using the public bus system. The city offers multiple bus routes that cover a wide area, ensuring you can reach almost any destination within Guelph.

The best part? Your bus fare is included in the compulsory fees of your tuition. Simply tap your student card when you board, and you're good to go.

To make navigating the bus routes even easier, download the Transit - Bus & Train Times app. This app allows you to input your current location and desired destination, showing you all available bus routes, estimated travel times, and the current location of your bus. It's a handy tool to ensure you never miss a bus or get lost on your way.

If you prefer a more direct and personalized mode of transportation, Red Top Taxi is a great option. Unlike other taxi services, Red Top Taxi allows you to use your student meal plan to pay for your fare, adding an extra layer of convenience.

To use this service, call their company number at (519) 821-1700 and provide your location. The next available taxi will be dispatched to you promptly.

Uber is another popular choice among students for its ease of use and flexibility. Simply open the Uber app, enter your destination, and a nearby driver will pick you

up. While Uber doesn't accept the student meal plan as payment, it offers a reliable alternative to traditional taxis and provides real-time updates of where your Uber is.

For those looking for a more sustainable and healthy mode of transportation, biking is an excellent choice.

Guelph is equipped with numerous bike lanes, making it safe and convenient to cycle around the city. Not only is biking good for the environment, but it also provides great exercise and a chance to explore Guelph's scenic routes.

With these diverse transit options, students at the University of Guelph can easily navigate the city, whether for academic purposes or leisure. From the comprehensive public bus system included in your tuition fees to the convenience of Red Top Taxi, Uber, and biking, there's a transportation method to suit everyone's needs and preferences.

Make the most of your time in Guelph by exploring all these transit options and finding the one that best fits your lifestyle. Safe travels!

ALYSSA CUNNINGHAM

ICON BY MIA ELYSIA

Your bus fare is included in your tuition. Make sure you use it! PHOTO PROVIDED BY TAYLOR PIPE

Fire Safety: How to avoid getting burned

Recognizing fire hazards and staying safe

TAYLOR PIPE

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

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

• Create a home floor plan

• Include every possible emergency exit

Find two ways to escape each room, if possible

Figure out who might need extra help escaping

• Pick a meeting location outside

• Once outside, call the fire department

• Practice escaping

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 worndown 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. This goes the same 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 important and remembering the hazards can help save you and your loved ones.

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

• Pull - Pull the pin on top of the fire extinguisher to break the tamper seal

Aim - Aim the fire extinguisher’s hose low and at the base of the fire

Squeeze - Squeeze the lever of the fire extinguisher to release the fire extinguishant

• Sweep - Use a sweeping motion from side to side to until you see the fire go out

Always have a fire evacuation for your home. You never know when you might need it. PHOTO PROVIDED BY PEXELS

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Ten years ago, The Ontarion featured this interactive component in it's back-to-school guide. This year, we want to bring it back!

Design your cannon, and send it to tpipe@theontarion.com to have it featured in the next edition of The Ontarion!

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

WED SEPT 4

Meet The Dragon Boat Club

• 12:00 p.m.

• Johnston Green

• Drop by Johnston Green and chat with members of the Guelph Gryphons Dragon Boat Club!

WED SEPT 11

Building a plant rich diet

• 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. JTP Rm 2259 & Virtual

• Learn about plantbased diets from Lindzie O’Reilly, Student Wellness Services Registered Dietitian

Guelph Jazz Festival

• All weekend long Downtown Guelph Celebrating 30 years of the Jazz Festival in Guelph

SAT SEPT 14

Volunteer Fair

• 2:30 p.m.

• University Centre

• Speak face-to-face with local organizations about their current and upcoming volunteer opportunities

TUES SEPT 17

All our Relations:

Indigenous Staff and Faculty Circle

10:00 - 11:30 a.m.

UC 441

This event is exclusively for First Nations, Inuit and Métis staff and faculty at U of G with the aim of providing a supportive environment to connect and strengthen bonds as a community

SEPT 19 & 20

Fest2Fall

• Cambridge, Ont.

• With performances by Tim Baker, JJ Wilde and The Beaches, Galt’s famous fall music fest is back.

• Tickets: fest2fall.com

Market

&

• 2 Gordon St., Guelph Farmers’ Market

• Shop for family treasures amongst some of the regions most interested vintage and antique vendors

19

Dial Down Academic Stress & Anxiety

• Learn the most common anxiety escalators along with practical tips to decrease anxiety

• A FREE workshop for University students, meeting ON-LINE from 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

• from the Stress Management & High Performance Clinic

• Learn more: SelfRegulationSkills.ca/free-sessions

Relaxation & Stress Management Skills

• Intensive skills training in how to calm anxiety, relax the body, and settle a busy brain

• 12 session program, meeting ON-LINE twice a week on Tuesdays & Thursdays from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.

• from the Stress Management & High Performance Clinic

• Learn more: SelfRegulationSkills.ca/programs/ relaxation-skills

Better Sleep Program

• Strategies to fall asleep (or back to sleep) more easily & get more energy from sleep

• 5 session ON-LINE program, one Lesson e-mailed to you each week and lifetime access

• from the Stress Management & High Performance Clinic

• Learn more: SelfRegulationSkills.ca/programs/ better-sleep

Vintage

Antique

ICON BY MAX.ICONS

Johnston Green

THE UC

BULLRING THE FLOWER PLOWER

the gryphon

The begging bear

Stone road & gordon Street

JOHNSTON HALL

THE PORTICO

PETS OF THE MONTH

MEET TUNDRA!

Breed: Great Pyreness

Photo: Franco Pedreschi

Age: 5

Fun Fact: He won’t eat unless someone pretends to cook his food

MEET STELLA!

Breed: Grey Tabby

Photo: Taylor Pipe

Age: 7

Fun Fact: Stella loves lunch meat

MEET NUGGET!

Breed: Corgi

Photo: Travis Hodichak

Age: 4

Fun Fact: Nugget has many nicknames like Nugs, Snugs, and Nuglas

MEET LADY!

Breed: Crested Gecko

Photo: Travis Hodichak

Age: 9

Fun Fact: Lady does not have a tail

reating 90,000 new youth job placements

ncreased funding for graduate and post-doctoral researchers

Eliminated interest on federal Student Loans

Increased the Canada Student Grant for low income students

Pharmacare

LONGFIELD Your Member of Parliament for Guelph

The Ontarion Inc.

University Centre Room 264

University of Guelph

N1G 2W1

ontarion@uoguelph.ca

519-824-4120

Editorial: x 58250

Advertising: x 58267

Accounts: x 53534

EDITORIAL STAFF

Editor-in-Chief

Taylor Pipe

News Editor

Carlota Sousa

Arts & Culture Editor

Andreea Burlacu Sports

President Paula Henry-Duru Chair of the

The Ontarion is a non-profit organization governed by a Board of Directors. Since The Ontarion undertakes the publishing of student work, the opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of The Ontarion staff and Board of Directors. The Ontarion reserves the right to edit or refuse all material deemed sexist, racist, homophobic, or otherwise unfit for publication as determined by the Editorin-Chief. Material of any form appearing in this newspaper is copyrighted 2024 and cannot be reprinted without the approval of the Editor-in-Chief. The Ontarion retains the right of first publication on all material. In the event that an advertiser is not satisfied with an advertisement in the newspaper, they must notify The Ontarion within four working days of publication. The Ontarion will not be held responsible for advertising mistakes beyond the cost of advertisement. The Ontarion is printed by Master Web, Inc.

PUZZLE PAGE

CROSSWORD

25. Three on a clock

26. Sheep's coat

27. Things to obey

28. Lower, as lights

29. Diamondbacks, on scoreboards

33. Make eggs

34. Line of people

36. To speak, after a few drinks

37. Wyatt of the Wild West

39. Moon shape

40. Paper size: Abbr.

41. Sounds of contentment

43. Foe

44. Tire pressure meas.

45. Counterbalance, away from the stage

46. Overcast

47. One of Santa's reindeer

49. "How tragic"

50. Popular noodle, for short

52. "All I ___ ___ ___ Do"

(Sheryl Crow hit)

53. Asian rice

57. Help with a heist

58. Tournament passes

60. "Nevermind" label

61. Be unwell

62. Big ball in space

63. Fresh, to Franz

BOB'S DOGS CROSSWORD CONTEST

For your chance to win two Bobs dog’s and two pops just complete the crossword, snap a picture, and send it to puzzles@theontarion.com by September 19 at 3 p.m. Winners are announced in each issue and can arrange a pickup of their voucher by emailing the same address.

Last issue’s winning puzzle was submitted by Daniel Chen!

Across

1. Beasts of burden

6. Mosquito's attack

10. Apple vehicle?

14. Japanese porcelain

15. Lion's den

16. Drag racing gp.

17. Disco Queen's childhood retreat?

20. Bird-to-be

21. Agcy. with collectors

22. Kind of bond

23. Curved knees after a sky spectrum?

28. Symbols of freshness

30. You could make a "meal" out of it

31. Curved letter

32. Pakistani neighbour

33. Not high on the smartness scale

35. ___-en-scène

36. Marine mammals

38. Golden St. campus for Bruins

42. Team race

44. Ontario town on the Tay

45. What a constant handwasher probably has, for short

48. Ger. city that had Nazi trials

49. Publishers

51. Plant container's meat pastries?

54. El Fondo Nacional de Música

55. Cape Town's nation: Abbr.

56. Hailed transport

59. Happy times of old?

64. Biblical garden

65. Sphinx city

66. Actress Zellweger

67. Banks on the runway

68. Dressed in

69. Cigarette ends

Down

1. Helper on the Hill

2. Polluted haze

3. Fruity wine drinks

4. Suffix with north

5. One-named 'Chandelier' singer

6. Book jacket promos

7. "You are not!" playground retort

8. Country star McGraw

9. Before, of yore

10. In disguise, for short

11. Modify

12. Military land forces

13. Eminem's albums, in a Discman

18. Trig ratio

19. Vittorio ___ ___ ___, composer (1898–1994)

24. 'Lou Grant' actor, Ed

Fill in the empty squares so that each of the digits 1 through 9 appear once in each row, column, and 3-by-3 block.

WE ARE THE ONTARION

TAYLOR PIPE

Editor-in-Chief

Taylor has been The Ontarion’s editor-in-chief since 2022. A huge fan of concert photography, Taylor is always looking for the next up-and-coming local band to feature in The Ontarion.

Taylor’s favourite afternoon activity is drinking twisted teas with her cat while dancing in her kitchen to FM radio.

ANDREEA BURLACU

&

Andreea Burlacu is a third-year English major who was told she looked like Beyoncé at age 10. She doesn’t see the resemblance, but she loves writing about all things arts and culture, including music, concerts, dance, events, and Pride! Andreea also enjoys long walks by the beach, overpriced cafés, things that are pink or lacey, and Scattergories.

Paige graduated from Sheridan College Honours Bachelor of Illustration program in 2020 and has been working for The Ontarion since 2022. She also works as a freelance editorial illustrator. In her spare time she enjoys prowling through thrift stores and watching horrible reality TV.

Carlota is a third-year psychology student with a passion for writing. Carlota is excited to be back for her second year as news editor with The Ontarion. A few of her favourite things to do include watching reality TV, drinking matcha and spending time with her cat.

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.

Olivia is an english undergrad student in her fourth year at the University of Guelph. When she’s not busy editing The Ontarion and adhering to CP style guidelines, she spends a concerning amount of her time playing The Sims.

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.

Sophia is in her third year in U of G’s landscape architecture program. She has a passion for art and photography and loves capturing the city of Guelph, and campus life. When she isn’t walking around with her camera, she’s either listening to music, watching shows from the early 2000s, or playing Overcooked with her friends.

WHY VOLUNTEER?

Whether this is your 1st year or 5th year, it’s never too late to start, and to enjoy the benefits of volunteering with us. People have met their future spouse, their best friend and their favourite musicians while volunteering with The Ontarion, and you might too!

Let’s take a closer look at some of the reasons to volunteer with The Ontarion.

THE ONTARION

For starters, your resume will thank you. We teach you hands-on skills that you can put on your resume to really impress your future employers. These days most employers in most fields want to know that you can communicate effectively and work well on a team. Volunteering with us gives you the opportunity to show employers that you can handle deadlines, can write well,

and represent an organization to the public. But there are more reasons than just your resume! Here you will gain opportunities to learn new skills, meet amazing people, and get a little excitement (covering your first concert or protest can be quite a thrill). You’ll also get to see your name in print and get to show off to all your friends and family! You’d be surprised how much

Grandma loves the campus newspaper. We provide the opportunity for you to meet and interview people (sometimes famous people!), go to concerts and other events, share your passion for any topic with our readers and a whole lot more. You might also learn a thing or two in the process! So, what are you waiting for? Come see us and learn more today!

CARLOTA

SOPHIA MARCON