Parents’ Guide 2009
Your guidebook on supporting your student at Waterloo
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Student Life Office University of Waterloo
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200 University Avenue West I
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Waterloo, Ontario, Canada N2L 3G1
519-888-4567, ext. 36993 www.studentlife.uwaterloo.ca I studentlife@uwaterloo.ca
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welcome to waterloo
Dear Parents, The University of Waterloo is thrilled your child will soon become an official Waterloo Warrior! Over the next year, your student is going to experience many changes, everything from new roommates and a new surrounding, to an increased work schedule and more personal freedom. The transition from high school to university, where students experience greater social and academic independence, can be a challenge. As you prepare for your son or daughter to begin his or her academic career at UW I am sure you are filled with mixed emotions. It is a time of both excitement and nervousness. I want you to know your child is about to enter an innovative institution, filled with warm and caring professionals who are here to help your child succeed. Whether your son or daughter is looking for advice on selecting courses, finding a job, or balancing new responsibilities we are here to help. All first-year students, regardless of whether they live on campus or off campus have access to a don,through on campus Residence Life or the Off Campus Dons programs. Dons are upper-year students who can help your son or daughter connect with on campus resources, such as the Student Life Office, Counselling Services, and Health Services; help students become involved in extracurricular activities, such as campus recreation, student clubs and orientation leading; and much more. The dons are one of the support persons in place to assist new students. To help you keep in touch with your students’ university experience, you can sign up to receive, Connections, the online magazine for parents of Waterloo students (www.firstyearstudents.uwaterloo.ca/connections). The magazine will be emailed to you on a monthly basis, giving you insight into student life at UW. More information can be found in this book on page 10. You can also visit www.studentlife.uwaterloo.ca to learn more about the numerous support services available to help your student. If your son or daughter ever approaches you with a question that you do not know how to answer please send him or her my way. The University of Waterloo wants all students, especially first-year students to succeed. I will always help students find the information and resources they need. My job is to help all first-year students with a safe and healthy transition from high school to university and to give them the information they need throughout their time at UW. Sincerely,
Heather FitzGerald Director, Student Life
welcome to waterloo
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table of contents
1 academic affairs History Transition Academic, Medical, and Personal Information about your UW Student Registrar’s Office Student Awards and Financial Aid Office Academic Advisors Workshops and Library Tours
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2 campus life Student Life Office Housing and Residences On-Campus Housing Mailing Addresses University Colleges Off-Campus Housing Off-Campus Dons Health Services Student Health and Dental Plan Counselling Services Aboriginal Services Career Services Co-op Education Extra-curricular Activities Athletics and Campus Recreation Federation of Students
10 10 11 14 16 16 17 17 18 19 19 20 22 23 23 24
3 coming to visit Parking UW Police Accommodations Transportation Making Arrangements Financial Institutions Restaurants Other Attractions
26 26 26 27 28 28 28 28
4 throughout the year Orientation Homecoming A Piece of Home: Birthday Cakes and Care Packages Retail Services Parents in Partnership Program
30 30 31 31 34
5 back of the book Important University Dates UW Web Sites of Interest Contacts University of Waterloo Highlights Comments Index
36 38 38 41 43 45
tips for parents ,top of first-year students
top tips
1. Write or email even if they don’t reply. They do want to hear from you. 2. Show your interest in their new experiences but be careful how you respond or ask questions. First-year students are often sensitive about their parents’ reactions to their new experiences. 3. Avoid asking, “Are you homesick?” If they are, it only makes it worse for them; if they aren’t, your own feelings may be hurt. 4. It’s OK to worry, but don’t worry too much. Students are resilient and capable of bouncing back from disappointments. The occasional sad phone call on Tuesday may stay with you, but be gone by Wednesday morning for them. 5. Make sure you talk about finances—theirs and yours—so your student can know what to expect in the event that problems arise. 6. Offer help with their problems but don’t try to solve them, even when it might seem easy to do so. Now is the time for them to take responsibility for themselves and they will value your advice more if you don’t take charge. 7. Talk to your son or daughter about who is responsible for paying bills and taking care of basic life skills such as laundry and shopping. It is also important to talk to your son or daughter about their safety and well being. 8. Make sure to visit if you can, but not too often and try to call first. Their social and academic lives become very busy. 9. Prepare for the return of a very independent person. You will see a lot of changes and not all of them will suit you. Be patient. In time, you will get back the person you know and love. 10. Resist the urge to pick-up the phone and plead your student’s individual situation to a university faculty member or official. It could embarrass your son or daughter and it might impede their ability to solve problems on their own. 11. Send care packages of food, cosmetics, favourite things, and pictures. It means a lot. 12. Give freely of your love, support, and confidence in their ability to handle this very big change in their lives.
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academic affairs
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Student Life at UW is comprised of a multitude of activities. It is a balance between time in the classroom, library or lab, and time spent in recreation, volunteering or other social commitments. This booklet focuses primarily on the services provided to help your student enjoy and thrive on campus. Therefore, we will be focusing on the non-academic side of things, however some of the most important academic information is also included to help you, help your student. G
History
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Transition
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Academic, Medical, and Personal Information about your UW student
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Registrar’s Office
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Student Awards and Financial Aid Office
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Academic Advisors
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Library Workshops
academic affairs
history Learn more about the University of Waterloo by visiting www.uwaterloo.ca
Founded in 1957, the University of Waterloo (UW) has a total enrolment of about 28,000 students including 22,000 full-time undergraduates. In just 52 years, Waterloo has distinguished itself as one of Canada’s leading universities, with strong teaching and research programs in applied health sciences, arts, engineering, environment, mathematics, and science. Furthermore, Waterloo has been named Canada’s most innovative university 15 years in a row in the Maclean’s Magazine reputation survey. We have a variety of varsity and recreational sports teams, over 120 recognized student clubs and numerous other opportunities for students to become involved. Waterloo creates an environment where students can expand their knowledge both academically and personally.
transition Take a virtual tour of the campus at www.virtualtour.uwaterloo.ca
As your son or daughter begins University you may experience anxiety as your family experiences a change. We hope this handbook will provide you with useful information to help you and your child during the transition into university life. Although there are many things that your son or daughter will begin to do on their own, there are still many things they will need your help with and perhaps advice about. This handbook covers the basic information about the services available to help your son or daughter begin a successful university career. It is OK to miss your son or daughter, but don’t forget to ask about what they are up to and let them know you are there if they need you.
academic, medical and personal information about your UW student Your son or daughter is beginning his or her first real experience as an adult and the University of Waterloo will encourage and respect this new phase of independence and responsibility. This means that information about your child’s health care or counselling visits, academic absence or judicial/disciplinary concerns will not be shared with you unless your son or daughter provides written permission for release of this information. The University expects students to assume responsibility for their own affairs, including the responsibility of keeping their parents informed of their progress and problems. You should discuss our policy related to Access to and Release of Student Information (Policy 19) www.secretariat.uwaterloo.ca/Policies/policy19.htm with your son or daughter so that you both understand the individual responsibilities involved. I6I
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Because we believe that students are adults when they attend university, we treat them as such. This means that they will be expected to speak for themselves in dispute resolution processes or in matters of discipline or academic issues. However, they are not expected to deal with these issues alone. There are a variety of people on campus who are trained and experienced in counselling and advising students in these kinds of situations. Their emphasis will always be on having the student take responsibility for problems and resolving them on one’s own.
registrar’s office and academic information about your UW student
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The Registrar’s Office is a key academic support unit. The people who work in the Registrar’s Office take care of admissions, the processing of grades and records, enrollment for each term, examinations, and Convocation. Students can find a wealth of information through their private online self-service account on Quest. Only students have authorized access to their Quest accounts. Online, the Registrar’s Office provides your son or daughter with a variety of resources, including an electronic copy of the undergraduate calendar and detailed information on how to order official transcripts of his or her marks.
Registrar’s Office www.registrar.uwaterloo.ca
The Registrar’s Office is the place where a student can find information related to his or her academic record. Please note that information about students’ grades or records can be given only to the student. Students seeking academic advice should make an appointment with an Academic Advisor who is located in their chosen area of study. The Registrar’s Office is also the location of the Student Awards and Financial Aid Office where students learn about bursaries, scholarships and the Ontario Student Assistance Program. Any questions related to specific fees including the collection of student fees can be answered in the Student Accounts Office on the first floor of Needles Hall.
student awards and financial aid office This is the office responsible for administering the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) and other provincial student aid. Your child will pick up any student loans, make any changes to their OSAP application, and apply for bursaries and scholarships at the Student Awards and Financial Aid (SAFA) Office. Scholarships are awarded based on scholastic achievement, and bursaries are awarded on the basis of financial need.
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Student Awards and Financial Aid Office www.safa.uwaterloo.ca
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UW has a financial aid guarantee > The University guarantees to fund unmet need as defined by OSAP or a student assistance program from another Canadian province. > The University aspires to identify students in need and ensure that all eligible students admitted to full-time undergraduate programs have the financial assistance necessary to complete their studies. > Students are required to seek financial support from all sources, including family, employment, loans and government support programs. Visit www.safa.uwaterloo.ca for eligibility criteria. The SAFA Office is located beside the Registrar’s Office for the students’ convenience.
academic advisors Academic advisors play an essential role in the educational plan of your student. It is important that students make contact with their advisor as early as possible in their first year. Each faculty has one or more persons who deal solely with helping your student choose courses, meet requirements, and can answer all questions. Each student has a faculty advisor with whom to discuss his or her academic program. The student however, is responsible for being aware of the requirements for graduation and is responsible for meeting these requirements. Students can find the name of their academic advisor in Student Life 101— Your Guidebook to a Happy, Healthy and Successful Career at Waterloo.
library workshops More information about the Library available at www.lib.uwaterloo.ca
Our campus offers a wide array of workshops to help your son or daughter get acquainted with the University and learn specific skills to help his or her academic career. Some of these workshops and tours include: > Workshops for undergraduate students are typically offered at the beginning of the fall term. These workshops provide new students the opportunity to gain valuable research and information literacy skills by learning how to use the resources available through the Library. > Workshops are offered regularly by Career Services, Counselling Services, and the Student Life Office. Visit the Campus Life section of this handbook for more information.
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campus life
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The University of Waterloo promotes a healthy, happy and successful Student Life program. Aside from academics, students’ well-being in residence, extra-curricular activities and physical health are our concern. G
Student Life Office
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Housing and Residences (On- and Off-Campus)
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Off-Campus Dons
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Health Services
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Student Health and Dental Plan
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Counselling Services
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Aboriginal Student Services
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Career Services
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Co-op Education
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Extra-Curricular Activities
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Federation of Students
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student life office Learn more about the Student Life Office at www.studentlife.uwaterloo.ca
Learn more about all of the Student Services available to your child at www.studentservices.uwaterloo.ca
First-Year Student Life 101 Newsletter www.firstyearstudents.uwaterloo.ca
Connections ‌ the newsletter for parents of Waterloo students www.studentservices.uwaterloo.ca/ connections
The Student Life Office plans and promotes events, programs and resources to help first-year students make a successful transition to university. Our department works closely with all other services and departments on campus, and is a great resource for your son or daughter to contact when he or she has questions and needs to be pointed in the right direction. Each month the Student Life Office publishes the First-Year Student Life 101 newsletter. An electronic magazine designed to provide students with timely information to help them during their first-year of study at Waterloo. Filled with tips, articles, and important dates, it is a great resource for your son or daughter. If you are wondering when your student’s exams finish, when the next varsity game is, or what great achievements UW students have done, visit www.studentservices.uwaterloo.ca/connections. To register to receive email updates when the latest issue is available send an e-mail to: parents-join@mailman.uwaterloo.ca. The instructions for subscribing and unsubscribing from the newsletter are also available on the newsletter website. Please note: this office does not provide academic advising—advising is offered through the individual faculty and your son or daughter should contact his/her academic advisor for matters such as course selection, course changes, program requirements etc.
housing and residences (on- and off-campus) Learn more about the Department of Housing and Residences at www.housing.uwaterloo.ca/ getready4rez/parents
The Department of Housing and Residences can provide your son or daughter with information about living either on or off campus. More than 5,100 students live on campus each year enjoying the convenience, comfort and community that residence living provides. Full-time students can live in residence during their academic terms or during a co-op work term in winter or spring, if they are working locally. For those students choosing to live off campus, the Off-Campus Housing Office provides a searchable online database of rental accommodations in Waterloo, and in other cities (for co-op students). As well, each January, Housing Information Sessions are held in residence to educate students about housing options available to them both on- and off-campus. There is a large selection of student housing in the community, so there is no rush for students to sign a lease or arrange housing before January. Taking the time to get informed will help students to make better decisions about their housing.
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on-campus housing If your son or daughter is living on campus you should know that our Residence Life Staff is committed to helping first-year students with the transition from high school to university and making his or her residence experience a rewarding one. Residence is a home away from home, and we provide the support system to encourage their growth and success in all areas of university living. Each of our residences accommodates a population of diverse individuals, and successful residence life requires co-operation, consideration, compromise and respect. As roommates, suitemates or neighbours, residents must show respect for other students and try their best to get along with and support one another. Living with others can provide an opportunity to meet people with stories and experiences very different from one’s own. By choosing to live in residence, your son or daughter is expected to contribute to the building of a successful and fun community. There are also many support systems in place should your son or daughter require assistance.
Learn more about Residence Life at www.housing.uwaterloo.ca/
For information regarding the University Colleges Residences, skip ahead to page 16 of this handbook.
Applications for each fall term are available online in early January. Applications for winter term are available in May and for spring term in October. For more information visit www.housing.uwaterloo.ca. Residence Life Staff THE DIRECTOR, STUDENT DEVELOPMENT AND RESIDENCE LIFE is responsible for all aspects of student life in the University of Waterloo Housing and Residence facilities. A RESIDENCE LIFE CO-ORDINATOR has the responsibility to oversee the Dons, student life, and overall policy enforcement of each residence. A DON is assigned to each house, floor, or area, and lives in a suite in the specific residence area. Dons are senior students or graduate students who are familiar with the University and with residence life. Dons assist I 11 I
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Living On Campus After First Year The Department of Housing and Residences is dedicated to providing on-campus housing to students beyond first year. There are limited spaces available to upper-year students in the fall term, and many more available in the winter and spring terms—perfect for co-op students returning to campus every four months. Upper-year residence spaces are made available in traditional-style, suite-style and townhouse-style residences in order to provide the benefits of on-campus living with the independence our students are looking for. Upper-year students can apply for spaces in UW Place, and Columbia Lake Village in the fall term, and in addition to these residences, also Village 1 in the winter and spring terms and Mackenzie King Village in the spring term only. Students living in residence in the spring term are given priority to apply for residence spaces available for the following winter term.
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the residents as they adapt to university life, implement educational and social programs for residents, refer students to appropriate services regarding social, academic and personal affairs, and enforce policies and regulations for the well-being of all residents. Getting Involved Getting involved in residence helps students to build relationships and to feel part of the community. There are many opportunities for students to get involved through volunteering, part-time jobs, and leadership positions. Here are some of the opportunities available to students living in residence: > Residence Council > Charity Committee > Marketing Advisory Board > Food Advisory Board > Promo Team > Special Event Days > Orientation Leader > Peer Leader > Residence Don > Front Desk Assistants (paid positions) > Residence Tour Guides (paid positions) > Residence Computer Consultants (paid positions) > Food Services Staff (paid positions) > the right FIT Promotions Team (paid positions) Academic Support Living in residence provides students with easy access to a wealth of resources and support. Academic success is a cornerstone of the LivingLearning residence life program and there are policies, programs and services available to support students in their academic pursuits. Tutoring Centres The Department of Housing and Residences has teamed up with some of the faculties to provide in-residence tutoring. This Living-Learning program, developed with the Faculties of Math, Science and Engineering offers convenient academic support. Tutoring Centres are located in various residence facilities, but are open to all UW students. Math Tutoring Centre (calculus and algebra): Physics Tutoring Centre Chemistry Tutoring Centre Engineering Tutoring Centre English Tutoring Centre (grad students) Accounting & Financial Management Tutoring Centre Writing Clinics
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Mackenzie King Village Village 1 Village 1 Village 1 Columbia Lake Village Village 1 Biology Ron Eydt Village
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Other academic sessions hosted in residence: > study skills and exam preparation workshops > first-year Arts Academic info sessions > ELPE review sessions Counsellor in Residence Moving away from home and starting first year at university can seem like a really big step. If your son or daughter finds him or herself feeling overwhelmed, they may want to speak with a professional counsellor. UW’s Counselling Services Department provides free confidential counselling for all students, and during the fall and winter terms, a counsellor is available for appointments right in residence. Residence Services Meal Plans and Food About 80% of first-year students purchase a meal plan. Students use their WatCard (student ID) to access a declining-debit meal plan. Plans consist of meal plan dollars, which can be spent on campus at any UW Food Services eatery. Students purchase a meal plan each term, and can add extra dollars any time. At the end of each term, any money remaining is carried forward as long as they’re a UW student. If you wish to add money to your son or daughter’s WatCard, visit the WatCard website to print a Deposit Form or use a credit card to add funds online. www.watcard.uwaterloo.ca. Students living in Ron Eydt Village or Village 1 are required to purchase a meal plan as cooking facilities are not available. Students living in any other residence facility have access to cooking facilities and can therefore choose to purchase a meal plan if they like, but it is not required.
Learn more about ResNet at www.housing.uwaterloo.ca/resnet
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Moving In and Out Fall Term In the fall term, move in takes place on the Sunday and Monday of the Labour Day weekend. Exactly which day your child will move in will depend on his or her room assignment. Generally, one half of each residence facility will move in on one day and the other half on the other day in order to ease traffic and congestion. Orientation leaders are on hand to direct you and to help carry your son or daughter’s belongings up to his or her room. All residents must vacate their residence room 24 hours after their last exam at the end of each term. Holiday Break in December The University is closed from December 23 until January 3. All residents must vacate residence 24 hours after their last exam. UW Residences are closed for the holiday break. The Off-Campus Housing Office is available before the holiday break (December 23) to help residents find short term accommodation for the break. I 13 I
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Winter and Spring Terms Move in usually takes place the Sunday before classes begin. All residents must vacate their residence room 24 hours after their last exam at the end of term. Mailing Addresses You can send your son or daughter letters and packages using the mailing addresses listed below. All you need to know is which residence he or she is living in. A mailbox is provided for each residence suite, floor or house, depending on the residence facility. Mail is delivered Monday to Friday by Canada Post. When a package arrives at the residence, the residence manager signs for the delivery and notifies the student that a package is there for them. The resident can then pick it up with proper ID. Note: For UW Place and Columbia Lake Village, Canada Post and other courier companies will attempt to deliver packages at least once before rerouting them to the nearest postal outlet.
Visit www.canadapost.ca to learn more about sending letters and packages.
Feel free to use short forms, such as V1, REV, MKV, or even UWP, but always remember to use the postal code!
Village 1 <Student’s Name> <House, Room Number> Village 1 Box 16460 University of Waterloo Waterloo, Ontario Canada N2J 4B6
Ron Eydt Village <Student’s Name> <Floor, Room Number> Ron Eydt Village Box 16610 University of Waterloo Waterloo, Ontario Canada N2J 4C1
Mackenzie King Village <Student’s Name> <East or West, Suite Number> Mackenzie King Village Box 1666 University of Waterloo Waterloo, Ontario Canada N2J 4Z2
Minota Hagey <Student’s Name> <Room Number> Minota Hagey University of Waterloo Waterloo, Ontario Canada N2L 3G1
UW Place Beck Hall <Student’s Name> <Suite Number> 108 Seagram Dr Waterloo Ontario Canada N2L 3B9
Eby Hall <Student’s Name> <Suite Number> 159 University Ave. West Waterloo Ontario Canada N2L 3E8
Wellesley Court North <Student’s Name> <Suite Number> 155 University Ave. West Waterloo Ontario Canada N2L 3E5
Wellesley Court South <Student’s Name> <Suite Number> 157 University Ave. West Waterloo Ontario Canada N2L 3E5
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Wilmot Court North <Student’s Name> <Suite Number> 163 University Ave. West Waterloo Ontario Canada N2L 3E5
Wilmot Court South <Student’s Name> <Suite Number> 161 University Ave. West Waterloo Ontario Canada N2L 3E5
Waterloo Court North <Student’s Name> <Suite Number> 106 Seagram Dr. Waterloo Ontario Canada N2L 3B8
Waterloo Court South <Student’s Name> <Suite Number> 104 Seagram Dr. Waterloo Ontario Canada N2L 3B8
Woolwich Court North <Student’s Name> <Suite Number> 100 Seagram Dr. Waterloo Ontario Canada N2L 3B8
Woolwich Court South <Student’s Name> <Suite Number> 102 Seagram Dr. Waterloo Ontario Canada N2L 3B8
*Note: For UW Place, do not include University of Waterloo or the name of the residence (i.e. Beck Hall) in the address. If you include these pieces of information the mail will be sent on campus and eventually be returned to sender. It must come directly to the address above in order for your student to receive it. Columbia Lake Village 50 Columbia St. West Waterloo, Ontario, Canada postal code (see below) North Community Units 101-122 Units 123-160 Units 161-168 Units 169-182 Units 183-190 Units 191-192 Units 193-202 Units 203-222 Units 223-250 Units 251-262 Units 263-294 Units 295-302 Units 303-324 Units 325-330 Units 331-350
N2L 6P1 N2L 6P3 N2L 6P4 N2L 6P1 N2L 6P4 N2L 6P1 N2L 6P2 N2L 6P6 N2L 6P2 N2L 6P6 N2L 6P7 N2L 6P8 N2L 6P4 N2L 6P6 N2L 6P8
South Community Units 1-8 N2L 6E8 Units 9-17 N2L 6E9 Units18-32 N2L 6G1 Units 33-40 N2L 6G2 Units 41-50 N2L 6G3 Units 51-58 N2L 6G4 Units 59-67 N2L 6G5 Units 68-82 N2L 6G6 Units 83-90 N2L 6G7 Units 91-100 N2L 6G8
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university colleges If your student is living in one of the University Colleges, he or she will also have a Don who lives on the same floor and can help your student during his or her first year. The University Colleges of Waterloo include:
Conrad Grebel University College <Student’s Name> <Room Number> Conrad Grebel University College Westmount Road North Waterloo, Ontario Canada N2L 3G6
Renison University College <Student’s Name> <Room Number> Renison University College Westmount Road North Waterloo, Ontario Canada N2L 3G4
Renison University College www.renison.uwaterloo.ca
St. Jerome’s University <Student’s Name> <Room Number> St. Jerome’s University < Sweeney Hall/J.R. Finn > Waterloo, Ontario Canada N2L 3G3
St. Paul’s University College <Student’s Name> <Room Number> St. Paul’s University College Westmount Road North Waterloo, Ontario Canada N2L 3G5
St. Jerome’s University www.sju.ca
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> Conrad Grebel University College > Renison University College > St. Jerome’s University > St. Paul’s University College
Conrad Grebel University College www.grebel.uwaterloo.ca
St. Paul’s University College www.stpauls.uwaterloo.ca
Off-Campus Housing lists can be accessed from the website www.och.uwaterloo.ca
The Off-Campus Housing Office (part of the Department of Housing and Residences), is located in the Student Life Centre, lower level. This office maintains online housing lists for the Kitchener-Waterloo area, along with tips on how to find a house or apartment that’s right for your student. The office also provides information about dealing with landlords and places to get help if you have further questions. Co-op students who are heading out of town can access housing lists for Toronto, Ottawa, and other areas. Housing lists for Kitchener-Waterloo or other areas can all be accessed from the web at www.och.uwaterloo.ca. For more information, please visit www.och.uwaterloo.ca. Top 5 Student Housing Search Tips 1. Make sure your student reads all documents that they sign! It’s the fine print that can get them—encourage them to pay particular attention to their lease and that they be sure to read the ENTIRE document and bring any questions they may have to the Off-Campus Housing Office. Remind them they may not want to sign any lease longer than 1 year— circumstances may change and he or she may not want to stay in the same place. 2. Encourage them to take their time and look around. They shouldn’t commit to the first place they see, there is lots of housing available. 3. Many landlords ask for a security deposit upon lease signing. It is illegal for landlords to ask for more than one month’s rent as a security deposit. Make sure your student asks his or her landlord for a receipt for any payments that they do make to them. 4. Suggest your student ask previous tenants what the average cost of the utilities were for them, or call the utility companies to find out approximately what the bills will be. I 16 I
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5. Encourage your student to visit or call the Off-Campus Housing Office to gather information and to attend one of the Housing Information Sessions before starting to look for a place.
off-campus dons Supported by the Federation of Students (Feds) the Off-Campus Dons (OCD) can help make the transition from high school to university a little easier for students living off campus. First-year students who register are matched with an upper-year student (a “Don”) who serves as a friendly, approachable resource. Dons give lots of information and support during those first crucial months at university and throughout the year. An OffCampus Don can help out with anything from deciding what to do for fun on Friday night, to landlord problems or money management tips. Dons are also there for any students who have school related questions or personal issues they would like to discuss. Off-Campus Dons run an amazing Orientation Week for all first-year students living off campus. Events designed specifically for students not in residence are organized throughout the year.
Visit the Off-Campus Dons website www.ocd.uwaterloo.ca
health services A STUDENT DOES NOT HAVE TO BE ENROLLED IN THE FEDS/GSA HEALTH AND DENTAL PLAN TO USE HEALTH SERVICES. HEALTH SERVICES ACTS AS YOUR STUDENT’S FAMILY PHYSICIAN. Services available > Physician appointments > Counsellor visits > Nurse services and health teaching e.g., birth control, nutrition, alcohol
For more information about Health Services, visit www.healthservices.uwaterloo.ca
> Allergy injections > > > > > > > > >
TB Skin tests Pregnancy tests and non-judgemental management of crisis pregnancy Urgent/first aid care Laboratory facilities Immunizations Wart treatment Administration of prescribed injectable medication Ongoing post-operative treatment, dressing changes Confidential HIV (AIDS) testing, counselling and health monitoring
> Registered Dietitian > Health education
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Students can call to make an appointment, or drop by between classes to arrange to see any of the health care professionals listed: We have > 10 Physicians > 1 Nurse Manager > 2 Part-time Counsellors > 1 Psychiatrist > 1 Venipuncturist > 10 Nurses > 1 Health Educator > 1 Dietician
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student health and dental plan FEDS/GSA Health and Dental Plan www.studentcare.net
National Pharmacy is an on campus pharmacy located in the Student Life Centre where all prescriptions can be filled.
A growing number of important health-care services aren’t covered by provincial health care. For many students, paying for these services can lead to financial hardship, while others can’t afford them at all. To help students pay for the health services they need, a student health and dental plan has been put in place by the student association. To use the health benefits, your student must be covered by provincial health-care coverage (such as OHIP) or the equivalent (such as UHIP for international students). The Health and Dental Plan can be used anywhere in the world and is uniquely designed for your student, providing a comprehensive package of health and dental benefits to fill the gaps left by provincial health care and your or your spouse’s plan. Plan Benefits The Plan includes coverage for benefits such as prescription drugs, eye exams, eyeglasses or contact lenses, health practitioners, medical equipment, ambulance, travel health coverage, dental checkups and cleanings, fillings, root canals, gum treatments, and more. For details on the above and other benefits, as well as any applicable conditions and maximums, please visit www.studentcare.net. Full-year coverage is from Sept. 1, 2009 – Aug. 31, 2010.
Learn more about the FEDS/GSA Health and Dental Plan at www.studentcare.net
Opt Outs If your student is covered by another plan (i.e. your or your spouse’s plan), you can combine this plan with your student’s FEDS/GSA Plan to maximize your student’s overall coverage and save on health-care costs. Alternately, your student can opt out of the Health and/or Dental Plan during the Change-of-Coverage Period at the beginning of the first term in which he or she is enrolled for each Academic Year. If your student is already covered by an equivalent health plan, she or he can opt out and receive reimbursement for the health portion of the Plan. For your student to opt out of their Health Plan, he or she must provide coverage by an equivalent health plan. Your student’s provincial health care doesn’t provide coverage equivalent to the FEDS/GSA Health Plan. Students can’t opt out of the FEDS/GSA Health Plan if they’re only covered by OHIP or equivalent health-care coverage. She or he may opt out of the Dental Plan and receive reimbursement for the dental portion of the Plan without submitting proof of equivalent dental coverage. Opt outs and enrolments are effective for an entire academic year. For more details regarding eligibility, coverage, opt outs, enrolments, and Change-of-Coverage dates, please visit www.studentcare.net.
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counselling services University can be a challenging environment. Students who make effective use of the resources available at UW have the best chance of reaching their academic potential. Along with the University’s libraries and laboratories, Counselling Services represents a resource designed to assist your child in moving towards her or his scholastic and personal goals. Counselling services provides confidential, short-term counselling, both individually and in groups, with qualified professionals to help students with > Methods of approaching studying and exams > Personal concerns
, , Visit the Counselling Services web
Services > Study Skills program > Personal counselling can include: depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, sexual abuse, disorderly eating, and many more Group workshop topics > Academic Writing
> Managing Anxiety and Panic
> Anger Management
> Procrastination
> Relaxation Training
> Communication Skills
> Self Esteem
> Stress Management
> Exam Preparation
> Study Skills
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site for more information about the workshops available to your child www.adm.uwaterloo.ca/infocs
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Aboriginal services UW Aboriginal Services @ St. Paul’s University College 140 Westmount Rd. N. Waterloo, ON
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Aboriginal Services Coordinator Emerance Baker, Office 206 519-885-1460, ext. 209; ebaker@uwaterloo.ca The Aboriginal Services Office provides culturally relevant information and supports for all University of Waterloo students, staff and faculty. Our office works toward a sustained, culturally relevant, learning and working environment that is respectful of the differences between our many nations.
Services include: > Information and advocacy > Academic Support Centre: 1 on 1 and group tutorial program and student success workshops > Personal support > Forms and applications assistance (OSAP, scholarships and bursaries) I 19 I
Aboriginal Services, Room 216 St. Paul’s University College 519-885-1460, ext. 209 ebaker@uwaterloo.ca Visit the Aboriginal Services Coordinator website for more information www.stpauls.uwaterloo.ca/content/ sidebar/aboriginal.html
campus life
> Links with local community agencies > Aboriginal Student Lounge > Supports for the Aboriginal Student Association (ASA) > Elders in Residence Program > ASA Open House – Soup and Fry Bread Days > Oversight of the Aboriginal Education Council > Aboriginal Highschool Enrichment Program – UW DIRECTIONS > Cultural Events: Annual UW Pow wow, National Aboriginal Day celebrations and various cultural workshops and activities > Facilitating access to traditional resources, people, teachings and ceremonies > Relevant communications – website, newsletter and on-campus events > Developing a University of Waterloo community of interest
Aboriginal Student Association The Aboriginal Student Association is committed to enhancing the university experience for all Aboriginal students attending the University of Waterloo. It provides support for Aboriginal students at the University of Waterloo to achieve their educational goals and promotes the pursuit of post-secondary education among Aboriginal people. It also provides opportunities for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students to meet for social activities and to participate in Aboriginal cultural activities within the campus and Kitchener-Waterloo community. The ASA seeks to promote cultural awareness and mutual understanding in the university community. Resource Centre Weejeendimin Native Resource Centre 42 College Street Kitchener N2H 5A1 519-743-8635
Employment and Training Anishnabeg Outreach 220 Charles Street East Kitchener N2G 2P7 519-742-0300
Housing KW Urban Native Wigwam Project 42 College Street Kitchener ON N2H 5A1 519-743-5868
career services Career Services has an array of career development programs and services to meet the needs of all UW students and alumni. The Career Development eManual The Career Development eManual is an online, interactive manual designed to guide your son or daughter step-by-step through the career I 20 I
campus life
development process. Each step will give your student an opportunity to learn new concepts and to practise their skills. After completing online modules students can sign up for face-to-face assistance by visiting the Career Services website www.careerservices.uwaterloo.ca. Resources Print and electronic resources (searchable on Trellis) are available in the areas of: > Career Planning: self exploration, occupational descriptions and trends, work search, volunteer and entrepreneurial information > Education: Canadian university and college calendars, subject and geographic-specific directories, professional test applications, personal statement information > Employer: directories > Work/Study Abroad: programs and guides Workshops > Workshops are provided on topics such as: career exploration and decision making, work search/networking, interviewing skills, thinking about an international experience, working effectively in another culture, negotiating job offers, further education, business etiquette, and success on the job. > Students and alumni may register for workshops through the website www.careerservices.uwaterloo.ca. Appointments > Students may discuss their career plans with an advisor. Make an appointment through the web site to discuss: curriculum vitae, rĂŠsumĂŠ and cover letter, career decision making, work search, mock interview, professional/grad school. Events FALL
WINTER
Career Fair Job Fair Professional & Volunteer/ Post-Degree Day Internship Fair Volunteer/Internship Fair Career Nights UW On-Campus Part-Time Job Fair Faculty of Education Talks UW Graduate Studies Fair Career Nights
ONGOING Employer Information Session
JobMine > All UW students and alumni may view online job listings through JobMine. Updated on a regular basis, JobMine offers access to a wide variety of part-time, summer, work placement, permanent, volunteer, I 21 I
Visit the Career Services web site for more information on the services and resources available to your student www.careerservices.uwaterloo.ca
campus life
and contract job opportunities received by Career Services. More details are available on the website jobmine.uwaterloo.ca. Volunteer Work
,co-op education
> To help your son or daughter gain valuable work experience, a listing of on and off-campus volunteer openings can be found by visiting the Career Services website.
Co-operative education is an educational model that formally integrates academic studies with relevant work experience. Co-op students alternate school terms with work in appropriate fields of business, industry, government, social services, or the professions. Work terms are usually four months long, but can last up to eight months. When finished their degree, students will have the same number of academic terms as a non co-op student, plus up to two years work experience. Choosing co-op can help a student to:
Visit the Co-operative Education website for more information on the services and resources available to your student www.coop.uwaterloo.ca
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> Clarify their career plans and preferred working style so they can pinpoint the type of job they desire upon graduation > Apply theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom > Continuously improve their interview skills and learn how to confidently promote themselves to an employer > Gain relevant work experience > Learn workplace etiquette > Improve their organizational and time management skills > Earn a salary to help finance education > Get hands-on experience with the latest tools or methods in their field > Build business contacts to assist in employment upon graduation > Set themselves apart from other university graduates > Be consistently challenged The co-op job finding process is highly competitive and there is no guarantee that students will find employment for every work term. Your son or daughterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s summer and part-time jobs as well as their volunteer work before coming to university is important and can greatly increase their chances of being selected for interviews with co-op employers. Co-op Education continues to search for work positions after the beginning of each work term for those students who remain unemployed. For co-op students who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find a job, all is not lost! With prior approval students can: > Find their own relevant employment (either paid or volunteer) > Return to school for another academic term (certain programs only) > Find unrelated employment (no credit) in order to earn money for the next academic term Flexibility and full participation in the employment process are important factors in their success. I 22 I
campus life
Students must complete between 4 to 6 work terms (depending on their program) to fulfill co-op degree requirements. In most, but not all programs, this means students can miss one work term with no academic penalty.
extra-curricular activities athletics and campus recreation Keeping active is important to staying healthy. Whether your student is an avid participant or a quiet observer, our Department of Athletics and Recreation offers something for everyone. Varsity Athletics Whether your studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interested in playing or watching, UW has 32 Varsity teams: MEN: > Badminton > Baseball > Basketball > Cheerleading > Cross Country > Curling > Football > Golf > Ice Hockey > Track and Field > Nordic Skiing > Rugby > Soccer > Squash > Swimming > Tennis > Volleyball
WOMEN: > Badminton > Basketball > Cheerleading > Cross Country > Curling > Field Hockey > Figure Skating > Golf > Ice Hockey > Indoor Hockey > Track and Field > Nordic Skiing > Rugby > Soccer > Swimming > Tennis > Volleyball
Campus Recreation > Clubs (Archery, Badminton, Curling, Fencing, Juggling, Kendo, Lifeguard, Martial Arts, Mountain Bike, Outers, Rowing, Ski and Snowboard, Table Tennis, Ultimate) > Competitive Leagues and tournaments (Ball Hockey, Basketball, Beach Volleyball, Dodgeball, Flag Football, Ice Hockey, Indoor Soccer, Soccer, Ultimate Slo-Pitch, Volleyball) > Conditioning and Weight Training (Conditioning Room orientation, Free weights, Personal Trainers) > Racquets (Squash, Tennis)
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Check out the amazing programs offered by Athletics and Campus Recreation www.athletics.uwaterloo.ca
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,
,
campus life
> Jobs (Dance, First Aid, Fitness Instructors, League Convenors, Referees, Skating, Squash, Tennis) > Over 15 different types of fitness classes including Athletic Training, Aquafit and Yoga Fit, Ball, Ballet Blast, Cardio Jam, Step Aerobics > Other (Aquatic Leadership, CPR, Bike Maintenance, Bouldering Clinics, First Aid, Golf, Irish Dance, Learn to Swim, Pilates, Skating, Social Dance)
federation of students
Federation of Students www.feds.ca
The undergraduate student union at the University of Waterloo is the Federation of Students. They are the voice of undergraduate students on campus and they represent students on everything from tuition policy to campus safety. Many students get involved with the Feds as volunteers or through their extensive clubs program, while others become involved with part time employment opportunities. The Feds are also extremely involved with the first year orientation process, special events on campus and approximately 120 clubs are run through the Federation of Students including: > UW Web Designers Club > Chess Club > Waterloo Christian Fellowship > Chinese Students Association > UW Vegetarians > Sikh Studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association > Association of Caribbean Students > UW Breakers > Aboriginal Students Association > Photography Club > Muslim Students Association > Engineers Without Borders > Smiling Over Sickness
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coming to visit
3
If you are coming to the area to visit your son or daughter here is a little information about where to stay and things you can do â&#x20AC;Ś G
Parking
G
UW Police
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Accommodations
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Transportation
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Making Arrangements
G
Financial Institutions
G
Restaurants
G
Other Attractions
coming to visit
parking Where to park www.adm.uwaterloo.ca/infopark
When you visit Waterloo you will find numerous locations around campus where you can park. Stop at the information center at the University of Waterloo entrance off University Avenue or visit our website to find the best parking lot for your visit.
UW police www.police.uwaterloo.ca Available 24 hours a day Call 519-888-4911, or extension 22222, on any campus pay phone The University of Waterloo Police has officers on duty 24 hours a day with the same law enforcement powers as regional police. Persons working or studying after hours on campus may contact UW Police for advice on appropriate precautions. If students need help that requires police assistance or have concerns regarding personal safety or any other matter, they are encouraged to contact the UW Police Service Duty Desk at 888-4911 or extension 22222. The UW Police and Parking Service are located on the north-east corner of Ring Road in the Commissary, in front of the smoke stack. In the case of a family or medical emergency, parents can contact UW Police Services to assist in locating their son or daughter.
accommodations Looking for a Bed and Breakfast? Visit www.bbcanada.com
There are many hotels and motels throughout the Kitchener-Waterloo area where you can stay for an evening, not to mention the number of Bed and Breakfasts as well. Best Western 50 Benjamin Road East, Waterloo 519-884-9295 Worldwide Reservation 1-800-528-1234 www.bestwestern.com Comfort Inn 190 Weber Street North, Waterloo 519-747-9400 www.choicehotels.com Destination Inn 547 King Street North, Waterloo 519-884-0100 www.destinationinn.com Hotel St. Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s University of Waterloo 1-866-885-1465, ext. 203 gueststpauls@uwaterloo.ca I 26 I
Conference Centre* University of Waterloo 519-884-5400 accombook@uwaterloo.ca Waterloo Hotel 2 King Street North, Waterloo 519-885-2626 www.Ontariosfinest.com/ inn_waterloo.html Waterloo Inn 475 King Street North, Waterloo 519-884-0220 Worldwide Reservation 1-800-361-4708 www.waterlooinn.com *Available May through August only.
coming to visit
transportation Grand River Transit provides services to almost anywhere in the KW area and there are several options for transportation out of the twin cities. Grand River Transit Grand River Transit can take your student all over the twin cities to shopping centres, grocery stores, the movies etc. The bus pass is included in student fees each term. To ride the GRT all your student needs is their WatCard.
Grand River Transit www.grt.ca
Greyhound /Coach Canada The main bus terminal for KW is located at Sportsworld. There are also pick-up locations on-campus and in downtown Kitchener. Bus tickets can be purchased right on campus at the Turnkey Desk, otherwise your student can take the Grand River Transit bus 7 or 8 from campus. This route transports students to the main terminal from where out-of-town buses depart.
Greyhound www.greyhound.ca
Fed Bus The Fed Bus is a handy, inexpensive way for UW Undergraduate Students to get to the Greater Toronto Area, London and Hamilton every weekend. Tickets are $11 one way and $20 return with an undergraduate ID (WatCard). The buses leave Friday from the Davis Centre and drop off at an array of locations and return Sunday right back to campus. Tickets can be purchased online at fedbus.feds.ca
Please contact Federation Xpress at 519-888-4567, ext. 33371 or visit www.feds.ca for more details.
Ride Board In the Student Life Centre there is a RIDE Board where rides can be posted or offered when students are heading out of town.
Student Life Centre www.studentservices.uwaterloo.ca/slc
Train The Via Rail Train station is also located in Kitchener, and services many towns and cities across Ontario.
Via Rail www.viarail.ca
Airways Transitâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Toronto Airporter Service Airways Transit provides transportation between the University of Waterloo and the Toronto Pearson International Airport. The Toronto Airporter Service departs daily from the Student Life Centre for the Toronto Pearson International Airport at: > 6:05 am
> 1:05 pm
> 10:50 am
> 3:35 pm
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Airways Transit www.airwaystransit.com
coming to visit
The Toronto Airporter Service departs daily from the Toronto Airport (all terminals) for the University of Waterloo Student Life Centre at: > 8:15 am
> 3:15 pm
> 1:30 pm
> 6:15 pm
Regular adult fare: $75.00 Call 519-886-2121 to reserve a spot. Note: There is no service on Saturdays and holidays and only the last 2 trips run on Sundaysâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;however door-to-door service is available 7 days a week, 365 days a year, by advance reservation.
,making arrangements
If your son or daughter needs to make arrangements to travel home over the holidays there are many travel agencies located within the KW area.
financial institutions There is a branch of the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce located on campus, with 4 automated teller machines across campus. Several branches of other major banks are located within walking distance of the University.
restaurants There are plenty of places to eat on campus or in the surrounding area. For a more formal dining experience, you are invited to the University Club on campus to enjoy a wonderful meal.
Local information www.city.waterloo.on.ca www.city.kitchener.on.ca www.stjacobs.com
, other attractions
Not sure where to go when you arrive? Visit the web sites of both the City of Waterloo and the City of Kitchener. You will be able to read about any upcoming events and a few of the areasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; largest attractions. Another great place to visit is St. Jacobs, only a short drive away.
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throughout the year
4
Just for fun â&#x20AC;Ś information about the campus during the school year G
Orientation
G
Homecoming
G
Birthday Cakes and Care Packages
G
Retail Services
G
Parents in Partnership Program
throughout the year
orientation Orientation Week www.orientation.uwaterloo.ca
September 7-12, 2009 Orientation Week at the University of Waterloo is an opportunity for first-year students to experience a balanced introduction to the academic, residential and social aspects of university life with the guidance and support of upper-year student leaders. It is governed by the following principles: > Respect > Communication > Collaboration > Balance and Moderation > Accountability > Acceptance We encourage all first-year students to attend both their Faculty and Residence, College or Off-Campus Housing Orientation programs. The schedule is carefully planned to ensure that programs complement each other and do not overlap. Students will spend time learning about their faculty and academic issues as well as having a balanced introduction to their residence and student life. Students will have the opportunity to meet the people in their classes, and spend time with those that they will be living with or near. To ease any concerns you may have, UW is pleased to inform you that we have developed a comprehensive and exciting Orientation program. Students also have a chance to explore UW through organized tours, meet the Federation of Students executive and learn about their academic programs. In addition, our student leaders have planned many social events to give first-year students the opportunity to meet people and have fun. One thing we recommend is not to worry if you cannot reach your student during the week. Your son or daughter is most likely with their leaders at one of the many events that have been planned for them.
homecoming Check out this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Homecoming events! www.homecoming.uwaterloo.ca
Saturday, September 26, 2009 www.homecoming.uwaterloo.ca Homecoming is the only annual university event that invites students, alumni and other members of the university community to celebrate their UW pride! Held at the end of September, a sample of the events include: Warrior Weekends, AHS 5km Fun Run, guest speakers, open houses and alumni reunions. Homecoming is a great opportunity to visit with your son or daughter and explore the bustling campus.
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throughout the year
a piece of home birthday cakes and care packages Missing your loved one? Special occasion? Stressful exam?
“A Piece of Home” www.foodservices.uwaterloo.ca/ pieceofhome
UW Food Services to the rescue! Choose one of our carefully designed packages created especially for your favourite scholar. They’ll be surprised! You can order a cake or a care package that will be sent to them along with a personal note. UW Food Services “A Piece of Home” program offers several other themed care packages. Visit our website at www.foodservices.uwaterloo.ca/ pieceofhome for more information. Piece of Home packages can be ordered online through our website or by calling 519-888-4567, extension 35270.
retail services www.retailservices.uwaterloo.ca Retail Services is a university ancillary department comprised of five retail stores: the Book Store providing new textbooks; the Waterloo Store, with a selection of UW apparel and giftware; Write Stuff, offering course specific products and stationery; Campus Tech carrying cell phones and affordable laptops, desktops and computer accessories and Art Worx, the source for fine arts supplies.
Stay up to date on events and promotions with e-news, our e-mail newsletter. www.retailservices.uwaterloo.ca
Retail Services strives to improve environmentally friendly business practices and offer more environmentally friendly product choices. Learn about our green initiatives online at www.retailservices.uwaterloo.ca/green. Looking for a way to congratulate your new university student? Retail Services gift cards are available in any denomination and have no expiry date. Redeemable at any Retail Services store, including the Book Store, Waterloo Store, Write Stuff, Campus Tech, and Art Worx, gift cards make the perfect gift for every UW student. Visit our website for ordering information. UW Book Store www.bookstore.uwaterloo.ca The Book Store is the campus store for new textbooks and other course materials. The Book Store features the top 10 weekly bestsellers at 25% off, and also carries bestselling fiction and non-fiction titles, reference materials and magazines Once a student has registered at Waterloo, they can find their booklist online at www.bookstore.uwaterloo.ca. Using their Quest/UWDir User ID and password, they can follow these steps to find their booklist for courses they are registered in: 1. Click on BookLook. 2. Click on Students, Search for All of Your Books by Term. 3. To generate a complete list of books for the courses you are registered in, log in with your Quest/UWDir User ID and password. I 31 I
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UW Book Store www.bookstore.uwaterloo.ca
throughout the year
4. Select the term and click Search. 5. To create a book list, you can choose to add all books for each course, or customize your list by clicking Add to Cart for specific books. To purchase books online, click on Check Out, enter your shipping and billing information and click Place Order. To print a book list to bring with you to the Book Store, click Edit Your Cart and then choose Printable Book List at the bottom of the page. Visit the Book Store website for a listing of our extended hours during the fall term. The Book Store is located in South Campus Hall. Waterloo Store www.waterloostore.uwaterloo.ca Waterloo Store www.waterloostore.uwaterloo.ca
Waterloo Store extends a warm welcome to First Year parents and students. Waterloo Store offers something for everyone to celebrate the Waterloo experience. We offer a selection of UW crested clothing, souvenirs and giftware items. Students can find a wide variety of hoodies, t-shirts, hats, leather jackets, and Warrior wear at our store. We also carry great gift items for your son or daughter, including UW rings, backpacks, key chains, greeting cards, and much more. Waterloo Store upholds just labour practices and as such, supports the Students Against Sweatshops program. Waterloo Store is located in South Campus Hall. Write Stuff www.writestuff.uwaterloo.ca
Write Stuff www.writestuff.uwaterloo.ca
Write Stuff is the on-campus store carrying academic supplies such as lab coats, latex gloves, dissection kits and scientific calculators. Write Stuff also carries a wide selection of stationery, agendas, computer accessories, UW crested supplies, and report covers. Students can find everything they need to polish reports and projects right on campus. Write Stuff is located in South Campus Hall. Art Worx www.artworx.uwaterloo.ca
Art Worx www.artworx.uwaterloo.ca
Art Worx provides art kits for fine arts students, which contain the materials needed for their Fine Arts classes. Art Worx also carries supplies for fine arts courses including paint, paper, canvas, and brushes. We can special order any item for you. Art Worx is located in East Campus Hall.
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throughout the year
Campus Tech www.campustech.uwaterloo.ca Why buy a computer from us? Campus Tech can help First Year students get connected at Waterloo. Our professional staff will help your scholar by recommending products that meet their faculty requirements. Campus Tech provides the latest technology products and quality name brand laptops, desktops, and computer accessories. We are a Rogers Authorized Dealer, and can assist with cell phone purchases. Ask us about the Rogers Student Plan.
Campus Tech www.campustech.uwaterloo.ca
It’s important for students to have the right system when they start their academic career. We make it affordable for students to own their own system by providing student leasing options and educational discount pricing on hardware and software. Our certified in-store technician works under manufacturer warranties, and can assist students with troubleshooting and system repairs. Campus Tech is located on the lower level of the Student Life Register valuable serial numbers UW Police offer a service to register the serial numbers for your student’s valuables (laptop, cell phones, Ipod, camera, bicycles) in order that items can be easily identified if stolen. This information is kept confidential and is purged after the student leaves the university. Your student can directly enter his/her information by following the link on the University of Waterloo Police Services website at www.police.uwaterloo.ca. Police also provides an online reporting process available from the www.police.uwaterloo.ca website which the campus community can use to advise police of nonemergency concerns. The information may be provided anonymously using this service. Federation of Students Used Bookstore Feds Used Books: The one place upper-year students wish they had known about in first year. Save money by buying used textbooks, and earn money by selling your gently used textbooks. We do all the work for you. When you're finished with your textbooks, just drop them off and we'll sell them for you for a 15% commission. Then just pick up your cheque. It's that easy. Feds Used Books can be found in the lower level of the Student Life Centre. For more info please visit www.businessesandservices.feds.ca/feds_used_books.
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Graphics www.graphics.uwaterloo.ca > Coin and WatCard operated copiers > Photo finishing > Large format printing > Digital printing in colour and black and white > Binding and finishing > Copy centres Look for us on campus—we’re everywhere you are!
throughout the year
parents in partnership program To make a donation or for further information, visit www.development.uwaterloo.ca/ parents
As the parent of a UW student, there are a number of ways you can help your son or daughter receive an excellent education. One way is to get involved through Parents in Partnership, a fundraising program that encourages parents to support their childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s education by making a charitable donation to the project or academic program of their choice. Support from parents has provided Waterloo students with new teaching resources, computer laboratories, teaching assistant funding, and library acquisitions. To raise these funds, enthusiastic Waterloo students from all faculties call UW parents during the spring and early summer. UW sincerely appreciates the support of all parents because their contributions help ensure that students receive an outstanding educational experience.
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back of the book
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Dates, contact and other useful information G
Important University Dates
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UW Web Sites of Interest
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Contacts
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University of Waterloo Highlights
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Comments
back of the book
2009 January S
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, , , UW web sites of interest back of the book
UW home page www.uwaterloo.ca
Student Life Office home page www.studentlife.uwaterloo.ca One Waterloo www.onewaterloo.uwaterloo.ca Student Services home page www.studentservices.uwaterloo.ca Orientation www.orientation.uwaterloo.ca Connections â&#x20AC;Ś Newsletter for parents of Waterloo students www.studentservices.uwaterloo.ca/connections Federation of Students home page www.feds.ca WatIAM www.watiam.uwaterloo.ca Online budget planner www.findoutmore.uwaterloo.ca/financing/budget.php Office of Alumni Affairs www.alumni.uwaterloo.ca Food Services www.foodservices.uwaterloo.ca Homecoming www.homecoming.uwaterloo.ca Retail Services www.retailservices.uwaterloo.ca
contacts The telephone number for the University switchboard is 519-885-1211 Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Outside of these days and hours, the automated switchboard is available at 519-888-4567, if you know the extension of the person you are trying to reach.
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back of the book
Student Services Associate Provost Human Resources and Student Services Catharine Scott extension 33186 email: cscott@uwaterloo.ca Director, Student Life Heather FitzGerald extension 36876 email: hafitzge@uwaterloo.ca or email: studentlife@uwaterloo.ca Federation of Students Vice President Internal (off-campus Dons Advisor) Sarah Cook extension 33780 email: vpin@feds.uwaterloo.ca Housing and Residences University Housing Officer Chris Read extension 38050 email: cread@uwaterloo.ca Director, Housing Facilities and Finance Gail Clarke UW Residences extension 35634 email: giclarke@uwaterloo.ca Director, Student Development and Residence Life Pam Charbonneau UW Residences extension 35134 Residence Life Coordinator Ron Eydt Village extension 35705 Residence Life Coordinator Village 1 extension 35929 Residence Life Coordinator Mackenzie King Village, Minota Hagey extension 36962
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Residence Life Coordinator UW Place extension 32641 Residence Life Coordinator Columbia Lake Village extension 37567 Off-Campus Housing Specialist Rachel Miller extension 35725 email: och@uwaterloo.ca University Colleges St. Jeromeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s University Glen Lombard 519-884-8111 extension 28227 email: glombard@sju.uwaterloo.ca Renison University College Jeff Newell 519-884-4404 extension 28610 email: jnewell@renison.uwaterloo.ca St. Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s University College Admissions 519-885-1460 extension 212 email: stpadmit@uwaterloo.ca Conrad Grebel University College Mary Brubaker-Zehr 519-885-0220 extension 24251 email: mbrubake@watserv1.uwaterloo.ca
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UW Police (open 24 hours) Staff Sergeant Chris Goss extension 36966 email: cmgoss@uwaterloo.ca
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University of Waterloo highlights > For 15 of the last 17 years, UW has been ranked Canada's #1 best overall university by reputation by Maclean's. In every one of those 17 years, we have been ranked as “most innovative” among universities across Canada.
School Colours: Gold, Black, and White
> Waterloo has the largest post-secondary co-operative education program in the world (13,000 students, 3,500 employers).
Motto: Concordia cum veritate (In harmony with truth)
> University of Waterloo is a major source of Canada’s graduates in science, mathematics, engineering and environmental studies with over 140,00 alumni in 141 countries around the world. > Waterloo operates Canada’s only English-language School of Optometry with leading research clinics including the Centre for Sight Enhancement and Centre for Contact Lens Research. > Waterloo and a first-class engineering education are synonymous due to the exceptional practical experience and innovative academic programs. > Applied Health Sciences professors and students are leaders in working with industry in areas of worker safety and health, and in working with the elderly. > The Faculty of Arts, UW’s largest, offers co-op and regular programs and produces excellent graduates in business, social sciences, and the humanities. > Waterloo operates the only co-op School of Pharmacy in Canada, the second in North America. > Waterloo’s Faculty of Mathematics is the largest in the world. > Waterloo employs several thousand part-time employees, many of them students, and more than 3,000 full-time people including 1,016 faculty members. > The university’s distance education degree program is one of the largest and most innovative in North America with 10,000 course registrations per year and over 250 credit courses in 50 subject areas. > The university was the first in Canada to record lectures using audiotapes and is now using the World Wide Web and computer conferencing to improve interaction for students and instructors.
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135,000 Alumni located in 140 countries
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comments The Parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guide was designed to give you information to help your son or daughter during their first-year at the University of Waterloo. We would love to receive feedback from you regarding this handbook. Please take the time to complete this short form.
1. What information in the handbook did you find useful?
2. What information/topics in the handbook would you have liked more information?
3. What information would you remove?
4. Other comments
Thank you and we wish your student all the best throughout the rest of his or her university career!
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Please return this form to the address on the back cover or e-mail studentlife@uwaterloo.ca
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index A Academic, Medical and Personal Information about your UW Student A Piece of Home Birthday Cakes and Care Packages
6, 7 31
Aboriginal Services
19, 20
Academic Advisors
8
Accomodations
26
ArtWorx
33
Athletics
23, 24
B Birthday Cakes and Care Packages
31
C Calendar
37
Campus Recreation
23, 24
Campus Tech
33
Career Services
20-22
Appointments
21
Events
21
JobMine
21
Resources
21
The Career Development eManual
20
Volunteer Work
22
Workshops
21
Comments
43
Contacts
38-40
Co-op Education
22
Counselling Services
19
D Dental Plan
18
FEDS/GSA Health and Dental Plan
18
Opt Outs
18
Plan Benefits
18
E Emergencies
26
Extra-curricular Activities
23, 24
Campus Recreation
23, 24
Varsity Athletics
23
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index F Federation of Students
24
Financial Institutions
28
Food Services
31
H Health and Dental Plan
18
FEDS/GSA Health and Dental Plan
18
Plan Benefits
18
Opt Outs
18
Health Services
17
Highlights
41
History
6
Homecoming
30
Hotels
26
Housing and Residences On-Campus
10-17 11-16
Living on campus after the first year Residence Life Staff Getting Involved Academic Support
11 11, 12 12 12, 13
Residence Services
13
Moving In and Out
13, 14
Mailing Addresses
14-16
University Colleges Off-Campus Housing Top 5 Student Housing Search Tips Off-Campus Dons
16 16, 17 16, 17 17
I Important University Dates
36
L Library Workshops
8
M Making Arrangements Mailing Addresses (Housing)
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28 14-16
index O Off-Campus Dons
17
Off-Campus Housing
16
On-Campus Housing
11-16
Orientation
30
Other Attractions
28
P Parents in Partnership Program
34
Parking
26
Police
26
R Registrar's Office and Academic Information About your UW Student Resaurants
7 28
Retail Services
31-33
UW Book Store
31, 32
Waterloo Store
32
Write Stuff
32
ArtWorx
32
Campus Tech
33
Federation of Students Used Bookstore
33
S Student Awards and Financial Aid Office
7, 8
Student Health and Dental Plan
18
FEDS/GSA Health and Dental Plan
18
Plan Benefits
18
Opt Outs
18
Student Life Office
10
T Top Tips for Parents of First-Year Students
4
Transition
6
Transportation
27, 28
Grand River Transit
27
Airways Transit-Toronto Airporter Service
27, 28
Fed Bus
27
Greyhound/Coach Canada
27
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index Ride Board
27
Train
27
U University Colleges (Housing)
16
University of Waterloo Highlights
41
Used Bookstore
33
UW Book Store
31, 32
UW Police
26
UW Websites of Interest
38
V Volunteer Work
22
W 32
Websites of Interest
38 DESIGN: GRAPHICS, UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO. PHOTOGRAPHY: PHOTO/IMAGING, GRAPHICS, UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO. PUBLISHED APRIL 2009 86945
Waterloo Store
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VeloCity
Conrad Grebel Environment 2
Renison
Village 1
INFORMATION BOOTH
South Campus Hall
Tatham Centre
Dana Porter Library
Engineering 2
Engineering 3
Carl A. Pollock Hall
Centre for Environmental and Information Technology
Douglas Wright Engineering
Rod Coutts Hall
VISITORS CENTRE
Physics
Optometry
William G. Davis Computer Research Centre Chemistry 2
Mathematics and Computer
Lyle S. Hallman Institute
B.C. Matthews Hall
Columbia Icefield
Earth Sciences and Chemistry
Physical Activities Complex
Student Life Centre
Federation Hall
Biology 1 & 2
Arts Lecture Hall
Modern Languages
Needles Hall
Health Services
Off-Campus Housing Office
J.G. Hagey Hall of the Humanities
Environment 1
St. Jerome’s
Housing and Residence Administration Office
Mackenzie King Village
Psychology, Anthropology, Sociology
St. Paul’s
Ron Eydt Village
Columbia Lake Village
UW Place
10-MINUTE WALK TO UPTOWN WATERLOO
East Campus Hall
Parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Guide 2009
Your guidebook on supporting your student at Waterloo
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Student Life Office University of Waterloo
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200 University Avenue West I
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Waterloo, Ontario, Canada N2L 3G1
519-888-4567, ext. 36993 www.studentlife.uwaterloo.ca I studentlife@uwaterloo.ca
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