We acknowledge that Western University is located on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabek (Ah-nish-in-a-bek), Haudenosaunee (Ho-den-no-show-nee), Lūnaapéewak (Len-ahpay- wuk) and Chonnonton (Chun-ongk-ton) Nations, on lands connected with the London Township and Sombra Treaties of 1796 and the Dish with One Spoon Covenant Wampum. This land continues to be home to diverse Indigenous Peoples (First Nations, Métis and Inuit) whom we recognize as contemporary stewards of the land and vital contributors of our society.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LETTERS FROM THE PRESIDENT & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
FIRST YEAR ESSENTIALS
TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES
WELLNESS RESOURCES
ACADEMIC SUPPORT, CONSIDERATION & ACCOMMODATIONS
STUDY TIPS AND SPOTS
RESEARCH AS AN UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT
ADVICE FROM UPPER-YEARS
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS AND IMPORTANT DATES
GETTING INVOLVED IN CLUBS AND THE SSC
FIRST YEAR BUCKET LIST CAMPUS MAP
Science Students’ Council President
Hey there Mustang!
My name is Mauritius Sarofiem, and I am beyond ecstatic to be your Science Students' Council President for the 2024-2025 year. Just like you, I was once a First Year at Western, filled with excitement and nervousness. It's a big step, but let me tell you—it's a step into a fantastic journey. Congratulations on becoming a Mustang, and welcome to your new home!
The next few months will be some of the most thrilling and transformative months of your life. With so many things happening around campus and in your classes, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But trust me, there's a place for everyone here. Whether you're passionate about science, arts, sports, or something entirely different, there's a club, association, or group just waiting for you to join. You might think it sounds too good to be true, but it's all about putting yourself out there. I know it can be nerve-wracking in such a big, new environment, but remember: if you reach out for opportunities at Western, they'll reach back.
As a fellow Mustang, I'm incredibly proud of our community. The Science Students' Council is here to support you academically, with mental health and wellness, advocacy, charity, events and more! We're your advocates with faculty, administration, and beyond. We represent you and have the power to influence and create change,
A Letter From The
A Letter From Your Editor-In-Chief
striving to impact your experience here at Western for the better. We're here to help you navigate everything from academics and mental health to finding fun and mean ingful ways to get involved. Whether through our council, various committees, department clubs, or other opportunities, there's a place for you to make a difference and grow.
As you dive into your first year, embrace the changes and challenges. They are all part of the experience that will help you discover your true potential and grow. Keep an open mind, stay curious, and don't be afraid to adjust your course as you go. And remember, you're not alone. Alongside your friends, sophs, and academic advisors, the SSC is here to support you every step of the way.
Enjoy the rest of your Orientation Week! If you see me around campus, please don't hesitate to say hi—I'd love to meet you! For any questions, concerns, or just to chat, feel free to reach out to me at president@westernssc.ca. I will respond to you as promptly as I can, and that’s a promise. SSC is here for you and to serve you. Here's to a fantastic year ahead. Welcome home, and best of luck!
Mauritius Sarofiem
Your 2024-2025 Science Students’ Council President North Campus Building Rm, 297 Western University, Canada president@westernssc.ca
Dear Incoming First-Year Students,
Welcome to Western Science! My name is Tavishi, and I am the 2024-25 Editor-in-Chief of The Current, Science Students’ Council’s (SSC) student-led publication. The Current is where fellow Science undergraduates share their insights on student life, academia, social issues, and much more. If you have an interest in scientific communication, writing, or journalism, I encourage you to join our team in the future!
Starting university is a momentous occasion, and it's natural to feel both excited and a bit overwhelmed by the transition. Larger classes, a faster pace, and increased workloads can be both thrilling and challenging. However, there are an abundance of resources and support systems available to you. To help ease your transition, we present our annual First-Year Science Student Guide, crafted to help you navigate your first year at Western and make it a smooth and enjoyable experience!
This guide is a product of the dedication and hard work of The Current’s team of writers and editors, as well as the SSC’s Communications Portfolio. Within these pages, you’ll find a plethora of information on university essentials, academic and wellness resources, and advice from upper-year students who have once been in your position. Our goal is to provide you with everything you need to
succeed not just academically, but also socially and emotionally during your first year at Western. First year doesn't have to be daunting; it can be an incredible opportunity to make lifelong friends, engage with diverse perspectives, and collaborate with staff and peers. Don’t miss out on the various orientation activities, club fairs, and social events designed to help you integrate into university life. Enjoy the fun moments and explore the campus — time flies, and before you know it, you’ll be graduating!
On behalf of The Current’s team, I extend the warmest welcome to you all and wish you immense success in your endeavours at Western. If you ever need support, guidance, or just a friendly conversation, remember there are many people here to help, including your sophs and SSC members. Don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance!
Have a fantastic year, Mustangs! The SSC is cheering you on every step of the way :)
Sincerely,
Tavishi Dhariwal Editor-in-Chief, The
Current Science Students’ Council 2024-25 thecurrent@westernssc.ca
FIRST-YEAR
ESSENTIALS
OneCard
The OneCard is your multi-purpose pass to unlock the doors around you — carry it with you at all times. Your OneCard is a means of identification that features your 9-digit student number, your name and your photo; you’ll need it during midterm and final examinations. But more than that — it functions as a meal plan card to swipe at dining halls or campus eateries, an LTC bus pass, and also as a key to access the Campus Recreation centre, certain academic buildings and parts of residences.
If you haven’t submitted the OneCard form or lose it at any time, visit your Student Center to apply for a new one or visit westernone.uwo.ca.
Purple Care
Purple Care is a student centered service that provides access to health and dental coverage, mental health support and virtual healthcare services. Full-time students can take advantage of benefits such as access to My Virtual Doctor, up to $750 coverage for dental services, $100 for eyeglasses, and up to $1200 for mental health services! These are always available to full time students. Find out more at mystudentplan.ca/purplecare/
Textbooks
The biggest tip for textbooks is to access the Western Bookstore website (bookstore.uwo.ca/) and log in with your Western student credentials to view a personalized shopping cart that generates a list of the textbooks/e-resources you need to purchase for the courses you’re enrolled in. We recommend you wait until after the first week of classes to make any big purchases, as your professors will typically restate what materials are required, which are suggested, and which ones you may not need to purchase at all. Some materials are returnable under certain regulations of non-usage, so read the fine print about the return policies on the bookstore website if you’re anxious to collect the whole suggested shopping cart.
Meal Plan
If you are living in residence as a first year student, you will likely have paid for a meal plan. Your meal plan, which resides on your OneCard, is divided into two parts: Residence Dollars and Flex Dollars. Residence dollars, the larger portion of your funds, are designated for purchasing meals, snacks, and drinks at any residence dining hall. These funds can be tracked in your Student Centre. Typically, a residence dining hall offers a buffet-style arrangement, so you choose the food you want and pay at the exit by swiping your OneCard. The meal plan is accessible from any dining hall, and when unrestricted you can have a meal at other residences that may be closer to your classes or to your dining preferences! Flex Dollars are a smaller allocation of funds that you can use at on-campus eateries and most vending machines on campus. This includes Tim Hortons, Starbucks, The Spoke and Wave, Subway, Jugo Juice, Einstein’s Cafe, and more! Paying with your meal plan comes with a 5% discount at any campus eatery operated by Hospitality Services (not including The Spoke, Wave, and Grad Club) — so take advantage and don’t be afraid to ask if student cards are accepted for purchases.
You can check your balance and also top up your meal plan funds at any time by visiting mealplan.uwo.ca/topup.
Lab Wear
In science courses, some lab components handle dangerous materials. A lab coat and a pair of lab goggles are a necessity before your first lab. Visit the bookstore in the University Community Centre (UCC). Don’t be afraid to ask staff at the bookstore for help — they can help guide you on sizing, especially for sleeve lengths. If you’re enrolled in first-year chemistry, check if your lab manual comes with free goggles! If you ever forget your lab coat and need one last minute, you can rent one for free at Taylor Library’s front desk or from your lab coordinator for $5.
services to ensure you get home safely.
Western Foot Patrol is a volunteer-driven service offering safe walks on Western and its affiliate campuses, as well as select off-campus locations.
For discreet accompaniment, Plain Clothes Walks are available, where volunteers, without identifiable vests, walk you to your destination, making it look like you’re walking with friends. The Foot Patrol app allows you to easily request a safe walk home. uwo.ca/footpatrol/index.html
Finding Your Way Around (Classes!)
Reference our campus map, or use Google Maps. Classfind.com/Western is a great tool for turning messy abbreviations like “NSC 145” into a building name, building photo, classroom door photo, and map.
Also remember that your OneCard is a bus pass. It gives you unlimited access throughout the school year to travel by public transit. This includes on campus (great for winter-time travels between residence and class or from class-to-class) and off campus — getting to the train station, visiting other parts of the city, including off campus club meetings or the mall! Here is a link to the LTC bus routes and schedules to help you plan your travel: londontransit.ca/plan-a-trip/routes-schedules/
Mustang On Demand is an app offered by the USC, which provides free ride service for students every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from midnight to 3 a.m, when the LTC is not in service. The Mustang on Demand service area covers popular spots around Western, Masonville, and downtown London. You can book rides within the designated service area using your UWO email and OneCard. Late-Night Exam Shuttle is a similar ride service which operates during exam seasons, allowing students to safely get home after late night study sessions.
Owl Brightspace
OWL Brightspace is a new online learning platform for both students and instructors. It is a website where students and faculty can access course materials, submit assignments, participate in discussions, and track academic progress. It is the primary platform for staying up-to-date with all of your coursework, so it’s a good idea to get comfortable navigating the website prior to the start of classes! brightspacehelp.uwo.ca/student/navigating-owl-bri ghtspace.html
TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES
TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES
Coursework & Schedules: Staying organized is crucial for academic success. Pulse keeps you updated on assignments and deadlines, integrating with learning management systems. Google Keep helps manage quick notes and to-do lists, integrating with Google Calendar. Notion serves as an all-in-one workspace for organizing coursework, managing tasks, and collaborating with classmates efficiently.
The Pulse: OWL Brightspace is a new communication platform for both students and instructors. The Brightspace Pulse app is a mobile tool for staying connected to your coursework, offering the same features as the web version of OWL Brightspace. brightspacehelp.uwo.ca/student/brightspace-pu lse-app.html
Microsoft Office Suite: This software is free to all students, including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, OneNote, and Teams. Installation Guide: wts.uwo.ca/sitelicense/microsoft/install_office.ht
m
Notion: An all-in-one workspace for notes, tasks, databases, and collaboration. notion.so/
Google Keep: A simple note-taking app that syncs with Google Drive and allows for easy organization. keep.google.com/
Note-Taking: Effective note-taking is essential for retaining information. Anki uses spaced repetition for efficient memorization. GoodNotes is great for handwritten notes and multimedia integration on iPads. OneNote offers robust organization and real-time collaboration, while Evernote helps capture and categorize various content for easy study.
Anki: Spaced repetition to study throughout the semester. apps.ankiweb.net/
Goodnotes: Taking notes on lecture slides. goodnotes.com/
OneNote: A digital note-taking app for organizing notes, collaborating, and integrating multimedia. onenote.com/hrd
Evernote: Allows you to capture and organize notes, images, web clippings, and audio across multiple devices. evernote.com/
Study Resources: Quality study resources deepen understanding. Khan Academy offers a vast library of video tutorials and exercises across numerous topics, reinforcing classroom learning. Crash Course provides engaging, high-quality videos that simplify complex subjects through entertaining narratives, ideal for visual learners.
Khan Academy: Video tutorials and practice exercises. khanacademy.org/
Crash Course: Youtube channel providing educational videos on many subjects. youtube.com/user/crashcourse
Literature Search: Reliable research tools are vital for academic work. Western Libraries provide extensive resources, including journals, books, and databases, for thorough research. Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL) offers valuable writing resources, including guides on grammar, style, and citation, enhancing writing skills and ensuring academic standards.
Western Libraries: Access course readings, e-books, PubMed, Google Scholar, JSTOR, and more. lib.uwo.ca/index.html
Grammarly: A writing tool to help you review and correct spelling, grammar, punctuation, clarity, engagement, and delivery mistakes. Although there is a paid subscription, even the free version is very useful to everything you write. grammarly.com/
Technology Services: Technical support is crucial for productivity. The Western IT Desk offers essential tech services, including software installation, troubleshooting, and network connectivity assistance. Their support ensures smooth device function, allowing focus on academic responsibilities without technical distractions.
WTS Helpdesk: wts.uwo.ca/helpdesk/
WELLNESS RESOURCES AT UWO
Your first year at Western will be full of new changes and academic challenges. To make the most of this year, it’s important that you take care of your physical and mental health. When you take care of yourself, all other aspects of your student life will fall into place, helping you become the best student you can be. Western has all the resources you need to be safe, healthy and successful! If you…
Need Residence Counselling:
If you are a student in residence who feels stressed, homesick, or in need of mental health support, residence counselling offers free professional and confidential services. To book an appointment, send an email to the address mentioned below. In the email include your name, residence building, and, if comfortable, what you wish to discuss. At your first appointment, expect to complete an intake form, and meet with a counsellor to discuss your concerns, skills to help and further steps.
Contact: Book an appointment by emailing needtotalk@uwo.ca Website: housing.uwo.ca/health-and-wellness/residence -mental-health-and-counselling
Location: Ontario Hall Room 3C10
Need A Physical Health Appointment:
`Need A Mental Health Appointment:
Feeling stressed, anxious, or need someone to talk to?
Book a mental health appointment to talk to someone virtually or in person, free of charge. These appointments offer a safe and confidential space to help you get back on track. Choose from the different types of counselling to find what's best for you, including individual counselling, group care sessions or workshops. Your first appointment will be a 50-minute session with a counsellor who will ask you questions to provide support and develop a plan to address any concerns. Some students feel that one session is all they need to get back on track, while others benefit from a follow up appointment. By working collaboratively with your counsellor, you’ll be able to determine what works best for you.
MyVirtualDoctor provides Western students 24/7 access to virtual health care through an app! Students can consult with a medical professional to address their any health care needs or concerns.
Feeling ill and needing a checkup? Western offers an appointment-based medical clinic, free of charge, for all students. Appointments can be booked online or over the phone. Arrive early with your health card to your appointment, and check-in with reception to be directed to the appropriate location. Check the website for an extensive list of services that are offered.
Contact: Call: 519-661-3030
Website: uwo.ca/health/shs/index.html
Location: Thames Hall Room 2170
Gender-Based And Sexual Violence Crisis And Support Line: 24/7 support for those experiencing gender-based violence or know someone who is.
Contact: 519-642-3000
Mental Health Crisis?
Free, 24/7, mental health and addiction support services
Contact: call/text: 519-433-2023
Webchat: reachout247.ca/
Not In A Crisis, But Distressed &Need Someone To Talk To?
Call CMHA Support Line at 1-866-360-8055
Are in an Emergency/Crisis: Medical Emergency, Campus Police (24/7):
Contact: From on-campus phone: 911 or x83300, From a cell phone: 519-661-3300
In Crisis? (Residence Counselling is Unavailable)
Your residence front desk
Good2Talk 1-866-925-5454
CMHA crisis service 24/7
Call: 1-866-933-2023
Webchat: reachout247.ca/
ACADEMIC SUPPORT CONSIDERATION ACCOMMODATION
Your first year of university can be challenging, filled with both excitement and anxiety. You may worry about handling a heavier workload and meeting the expectations of your undergraduate degree. Fortunately, Western offers a variety of resources to help you transition smoothly into university life!
Academic Advicing: Address a broad range of student needs such as degree requirements, program changes, adding or dropping courses, and personal/mental health issues. They can process requests for increased or irregular course loads and Letters of Permission for specific courses, advise transfer students, and assist those struggling with university adjustments.
Ideal for quick questions and general inquiries. This is the fastest way to see an academic advisor. Please note that the Live Chat is NOT for approval of missed course work, asking about help portal response time, requesting a booked appointment, or in-depth advising appointments!
Zoom Same-Day Appointments:
These are 15-minute private sessions via Zoom, allowing you to discuss course progression, selection, missed coursework, academic considerations, and more.
Booked Appointments: These can be scheduled through the Help Portal on the Western Academic Counselling website. Topics include second degrees, exchange programs, concurrent degrees, and academic probation.
Mondays - Thursdays: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm and 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm Fridays: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm during peak times (add/drop, exams, etc.)
Department Counsellors provide specific answers about your module and courses. Each department has its own counsellors who can be contacted via email for questions about degree progression, course selection, special permissions, potential course substitutions, and course registration issues. Medical Sciences students should direct their inquiries to Science Academic Counselling.
Academic Consideration: If you miss an assessment, class, or cannot submit an assignment due to medical, compassionate, or religious reasons, you may be eligible for academic consideration. Fill out the academic consideration request form with the appropriate documentation and submit it to the academic counselling office (in person or virtually).
More Information: registrar.uwo.ca/academics/academic_considerations/index.html
Academic Accommodations: Students with a disability or chronic illness may request Academic Accommodation from Accessible Education to make their studies more accessible, such as alternative format textbooks (electronic, Braille) and extra assessment time.
More Information: academicsupport.uwo.ca/accessible_education
Learning Development and Success Center: Provides counselling to help cope with post-secondary learning demands by offering learning strategies, time management tools, and more. https://learning.uwo.ca/
Writing Support Center: Writing advisors review academic writing assignments, resumes, and applications. Meetings with advisors can be booked on their website: https://writing.uwo.ca/
Peer-Assisted Learning Center: A free alternative to booking a tutor, where senior student volunteers can discuss general or subject-specific learning concerns in a supportive environment. Tutors can help with specific courses like Chem1301 or Calc1000, and will have a published schedule for the upcoming semester on their website: https://learning.uwo.ca/peer_assisted_learning/
DO PRACTICE PROBLEMS
For application-based subjects like math, physics, and organic chemistry, it may be more rewarding to focus on practice problems in textbooks and getting your hands on sample tests to simulate the exam conditions. Memorizing the theory or passively revising your notes will not equip you to apply mathematical concepts and theories. Considering, reviewing your answers to the practice problems to pinpoint your areas of weakness is one of the most useful ways to benefit the most from doing these sample questions.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF WESTERN’S FREE SERVICES
If you need further support, there is no shame in leveraging the resources at your disposal. This includes free tutoring services through the Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) Centre at school or private tutors that can be accessed by requesting them from the course professor/teaching assistant. You can sign up for the Math-Physics Accelerator for free one-on-one help with your math or physics courses! View when help sessions are running through this calendar: physics.uwo.ca/undergraduate/curr ent_students/mathphysics_acceler ator.html
STUDYTIPS
It’s important to remember that the same boiling water that softens the potato hardens the egg. Your study techniques may not suit the next person, and the way you study for math courses may not be apt for biology classes.
USE FLASHCARDS FOR ACTIVE RECALL
On the other hand, while problem-solving is a notable part of biological subjects, tools like Anki or similar flashcard apps will be your best friend. These tools support active recall to ensure you’ve thoroughly internalized the subject and can explain why things are the way they are. The Feynman technique, which underscores that in-depth understanding comes with the ability to simplify and teach someone about the subject, is another effective way to practice recall in subjects that require you to commit theories/content to memory. Here are a few resources on active recall and related study techniques to support your studies through a degree in science: youtube.com/watch?v=76yqErAib5g
CONNECT WITH YOUR TAs AND PROFESSORS
It’s also worth noting that seeking informal but supplemental support from the course TAs is another accessible and seemingly less daunting active approach to fortifying your learning and studying. But from experience, the professors are just as approachable and are willing to help the keen students that take the effort to seek extra support — just be sensible of their limited time and be opportunistic and considerate of when/how you approach them (eg. the few minutes at the beginning/end of class, between classes if you catch them on campus… but most effectively, attend their office hours!). The professor’s office hours are an underrated source of immense knowledge and more interactive sessions to pick their brains. They are competent and kind people who teach for a living — ask for clarification, that’s why they are there.
JOIN STUDY GROUPS
As a means to combine active recall, problem-solving sessions, and socialization/meeting new people in your shoes, study groups or collaborative study sessions over coffee can be an appealing option. Whiteboards to draw out expansive mind maps will be your holy grail for team study sessions of the like. Beyond the effectiveness of this study method, the solace in finding people facing similar challenges and with comparable passions is comforting.
SPOTSSTUDY
Considering group study sessions, study spots are another factor to include in the equation of the optimal study sessions. Don’t hesitate to explore buildings beyond those you have classes in and those outside the bounds of your discipline. The obvious study spots for science students include Taylor and Weldon libraries, harbouring communal tables to more private study rooms. Other popular gems include the Spoke or any tabletop in the University Community Centre (UCC) Food Hub to alleviate some of the study despair with a sweet treat. Among the hidden gems on campus are the Western Interdisciplinary Research Building (WIRB) ground floor, one of the empty classrooms on the UCC ground floor, and quiet study rooms or benches on the second floor of Stevenson Hall. Some not-so-hidden gems include North Campus Building benches/classrooms, Tim Hortons tables in Health Sciences Building, etc. It is worth noting that both Taylor Library and Weldon Library have their perks for both science and other students alike. Taylor has communal tables, quiet zones, cubicles, and study rooms — not to mention chargers, adapters, lab coats and more that you can rent from the front desk for free! Weldon Library is well-placed close to UCC, lies at the centre of campus, and has 5 floors to accommodate all types of studying.
For more potential study spots and navigation help, reference the campus map, Google Maps, or the WesternU app for directions to buildings sprawled across campus.
RESEARCH AS AN Undergraduate Student
As an undergraduate student, participating in research can transform your university experience from simply receiving information to actively engaging with content, formulating questions, and expanding your network. However, it's important to acknowledge that securing a research position can be challenging, especially for first-year students, and many do not get one right away. If you don't want to pursue research, that's perfectly okay too! For those who do get involved in research early in their academic career, it provides an opportunity to explore topics or issues they are passionate about on a deeper level, allowing them to learn more about their interests and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in certain fields.
STARTED
Stepping your foot into research as a first-year student can seem overwhelming and frustrating; however, the process of finding the right opportunity can be simplified by following a few steps:
Researching Topics of Interest: Search for and make a list of topics that spark your curiosity or seem interesting. You can accomplish this by reading scientific articles on academic databases such as PubMed, books, or simply watching Youtube videos.
Cold Emailing: The technique of cold emailing involves contacting professors or researchers via email to inquire for research opportunities. When sending emails, include your name, program, the reason you are interested in their work, a brief summary of relevant skills and experiences, and a particular aspect of their research that you find fascinating. It is a good idea to study their published articles to gain a better understanding of their research before crafting your email.
Applying to Research Programs: As a first-year student, you can apply for a number of summer research programs. Compiling a list with the programs, deadlines, and application requirements can be useful.
Attending Seminars: Seminars are a great way to learn about ongoing research and connect with other professionals. Interacting with researchers and asking questions at seminars may lead to future opportunities. Keeping a journal of the seminars that you attend and potential contacts could be useful in the future.
TEMPLATE FOR COLD EMAILING: 2 1 3 4
Subject: Undergraduate Research Opportunity – [Enter Lab Name]
Dear Dr. [enter last name],
My name is [enter full name] and I am currently a [enter year of study] year student majoring in [enter major] at Western University. I am writing to ask about available undergraduate research positions in your laboratory during [enter time period]. I am interested in [enter topic] and want to pursue a career in [enter career goal]. I was first introduced to this [enter topic] in [enter class/previous research experience] and would love to pursue this topic further. I am very interested in your work on [describe a specific paper of research topic] and I would love to have the opportunity to contribute to your research.
My resume and unofficial transcript are attached to this email. Please contact me for any additional information or if you have any questions. If possible, I would love to schedule a time at your convenience to discuss this opportunity further.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely, [Enter full name]
FROM UPPER YEAR ADVICE STUDENTS
Don’t be afraid to make friends. Especially as science students, we often get caught up with our grades, and worry about all the challenges with getting careers or going into post-secondary. Going through university alone is tough, so it’s important to make friends and spend time with them, share hobbies together, and have fun!
Don't be afraid to join more clubs, take up hobbies, and spend time with friends. Doing these activities can help you meet new people, develop new skills and find balance with busy schedules. Live your best life at university.
Be ready for failure. These are not the words any student wants to hear, but it's vital to know that sooner rather than later. Success is a great motivator, but you will see your fair share of failures and moments you wish had gone differently in university. We shouldn't dwell on these moments, but we must learn from them, and develop strategies (like talking with friends, professors, and family) to rebound. Believe me, you can achieve greatness.
JASON, YEAR 3
Managing work-life balance is crucial; one issue can lead to a cascade of problems, from academics to physical and mental health. Likewise, fixing one thing can resolve a plethora of issues. For me, maintaining a regular sleep routine was key — circadian rhythm is no joke!
Find your own routines of how you like to study and bring balance to your life. You don't have to match your friends' styles of studying, find what works best for you! Make sure you have enough time to do things that make you happy, like taking walks.
I wish first year Kami knew that it is okay to not know what you're doing nor achieve all the accolades. I know you feel immense pressure from family, friends and peers to overachieve and be confident in everything you do. But confidence doesn't come from how you are perceived or what you achieve, it comes from your mental and emotional security of knowing your capabilities.
FELIX, YEAR 4
NADITH, YEAR 3
VERA, YEAR 4
KAMILYAH, YEAR 2
IRIS, YEAR 4
REQUIREMENTS GRADUATION
As you enter your first year, it may seem difficult to understand the specifics of your degree in regards to course selection, category/breadth requirements, and essay credits. While you still have a long path ahead of you over the next few years, remember that your peers and upper year mentors have been in your shoes, so don’t be afraid to ask them for advice, or reach out to the Science Academic Support and Counseling offices!
The Academic Calendar is an essential resource for students, providing detailed information about important dates, deadlines, and academic policies. It includes course descriptions, degree requirements, and other critical information to help you navigate your academic journey. It also includes the Sessional Dates section, which is crucial for staying informed about specific session dates, including term start and end dates, add/drop deadlines, exam periods, and holidays (westerncalendar.uwo.ca/index.cfm?SelectedCalendar=Live&ArchiveID=).
Here is a quick breakdown of graduation requirements and important dates you may see in the upcoming year, as well as some terminology you may see during course selection time periods!
TYPES OF DEGREES:
Over the course of your time at Western, you can choose to pursue 3 general types of degrees:
BREADTH REQUIREMENTS
To graduate, you will have to complete certain breadth requirements and essay credits. Breadth requirements comprise of 3 course categories; A, B and C.
Category A
Social Science And Multidisciplinary Courses
Examples: Anthropology, Psychology, Geography, History, Political Science, Law, Music, Creative Arts, Dance And More.
All three degree types have certain specifications, one of which is to complete 5.0 credits (a full course load) in your first year. Some additional requirements include meeting minimum grade averages, and taking a certain number of upper year courses by the time you graduate. When looking into career pathways, consider that some post grad programs may allow a 3 year degree, allowing you to enter said program right after your third year, while certain masters or PhD programs may require a 4 year degree.
In each degree, you can pursue different modules, which, depending on your program, are selected after your first year. Primarily differentiated by the number of credits taken in that subject, these are: (uwo.ca/univsec/pdf/academic_policies/registration_progression_grad/ registration_progression.pdf)
Certain modules of study may be combined depending on your type of degree, such as completing a double major, a specialization with a major, a major with a minor, and more. Check the UWO Registration, Progression, and Graduation document to ensure you are eligible to complete certain modules together for your degree. If you have any questions, reach out to your academic advisor.
UNDERSTANDING COURSE CODES
Each course code will easily tell you some important information. Here are some tips to understand it quickly:
BIO1002A
Category B
Arts & Humanities, Language Courses
Examples: Art History, Linguistics, Philosophy, Visual Arts History, Speech, Film Studies, Classical Studies, French,
Category C
Engineering, Medical Science, And Science Courses
Examples: Biomedical Engineering, Biochemistry, Physiology, Biology, Calculus, Chemistry, Computer Science, Physics, Linear Algebra, Neuroscience And More.
Part of your degree requirements as a first year student include taking a minimum of 1.0 courses from at least 2 of the 3 categories listed. As science students, you will meet the Category C requirements, allowing you to take 1.0 electives from a different category. Feel free to do some research before picking your electives - they exist to help you diversify your degree, but most importantly, take a course you think you will enjoy studying!
ESSAY REQUIREMENTS
By the time you graduate, you will also need to complete 2.0 essay credits, of which 1.0 of these credits must be at the 2000 level or higher. An essay credit will usually end with an E, F, or G. These correspond to the following:
•E: This is a full-year (1.0) course
• F: This is offered in the first semester and is half credit (0.5 credit)
• G: This is offered in the second semester and is half credit (0.5 credit)
KEY DATES
Lastly, the Office of the Registrar constantly updates its page with the important dates and deadlines of the upcoming school year. The schedule for 2024/2025 is linked below, so add those dates to your calendar to stay up to date! Using a calendar or planner would be highly beneficial to staying on top of dates and deadlines for your courses throughout the year. Additionally, around the middle of the semester, the exam schedule will also be released, allowing you to see what your final exam season will look like. Good luck and remember to reach out if you have any questions!
With over 200 clubs and 18 recreational sport clubs, your first year can make you feel like a kid in a candy store. Or quite the opposite — like a fish out of water. From social clubs, culture appreciation clubs, student associations, athletic teams, and more, the university you picked has it all. Whether you are looking to improve your graduate school application, meet new people, or take a break from studying, check out Western’s science related clubs!
• Biology Undergraduate Society connects biology students and promotes opportunities like scholarships, careers, scholastics, and volunteering.
• Chemistry Club provides academic support and interactive events for students and faculty.
• Math Club at Western holds academic and social events for math students and enthusiasts.
• Bachelor of Medical Sciences Association offers resources through Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry and BMSc guidance counsellors.
• Computer Science Undergraduate Society promotes the discipline, connects students to services, and facilitates networking.
• Environmental Science Association fosters sustainability and collaboration with the London community and Western.
Keep your eye out for Clubs Week in September or start exploring now at: westernu.campuslabs.ca/engage/organizations. For more science related clubs, visit: westernssc.ca/clubs.
to assist the science undergraduate body to achieve the best student experience possible. We are composed of 64 members of the science community, including elected representatives that serve as your voice within our supporting Faculties, and appointed commissioners responsible for improving your undergraduate experience. You can apply to become a first year representative, where you would be responsible for hosting office hours and promoting the SSC's upcoming events to other students. Otherwise, you can join one of our seven committees: The Current, Charity, Communications, Events, Finance, International, Research & Policy, and Wellness.
Here is a non-exhaustive list of activities you can do during your first year at Western. Enjoy!
Campus Activities
Try a Spoke bagel: A must-have campus favourite
Try to find a seat at Weldon during exam season: A true test of perseverance
Find your go-to quiet study spot
Visit all the first-year residences
Nap in a library
Walk around campus without getting attacked by geese: It’s a miracle if you can go all of first year without getting hissed at!
Use your OneCard to get discounts: Applicable at certain restaurants, clothing stores, online subscriptions, grocery stores, etc.
Watch a Western football game: See our horses circle the track after each Western touchdown!
Walk along and explore the Thames River
Go to a morning class after a night out
Go sledding at night on UC Hill
Get Western merch: Keep an eye out for discounts at the Western bookstore, located in the basement of the UCC
Pull an all-nighter on campus
Explore the underground tunnels
Join an intramural team: Check out what is available, how to register and dates at (uwo.ca/campusrec/intramurals/index.html)
Get lunch from a campus food truck: Stay up to date on food trucks and farmers market on campus at: (x.com/westernufood)
Off-Campus Activities
Explore downtown London: Try out thrift shops, street markets and walking trails. Take Bus 02 from the Natural Science Centre! Figure out London Transit: londontransit.ca/plan-a-trip/routes-schedules/
Study outdoors
Have a picnic with friends
Go to a concert at Budweiser Gardens
Volunteer in or outside of campus: (london.ca/living-london/community-services/senior-supports/age-friend ly-london-volunteer-opportunities)
When you check items off, we want to see! Tag us @western.ssc on Instagram!
