My go-to campus resources for the summer
While summer often feels like a break from the usual hustle and bustle of the academic year, it's also the perfect time to take advantage of some of TMU’s resources. Contrary to popular belief, the TMU campus is open all throughout summer, making it ideal to explore since it’s much calmer compared to during the school year.
Summer months provide a great opportunity to tap into campus facilities and services in ways I wouldn't always have time for during the school year. From study spaces to career services, here’s how I make the most of TMU’s resources when our campus is a little quieter but still buzzing with possibilities.
Free grocery essentials for TMU students facing food insecurity
The Good Food Centre (GFC) is an important TMU resource that helps students who are facing food insecurity to stock up on grocery essentials for free. After signing up, you can find them in the Student Campus Centre (SCC) every week. Their schedule can be found on the website. The GFC operates all year round and the lines are way smaller during the summer!
Find creative inspiration at the Image Centre’s summer photography exhibits
While The Image Centre (external link) is open throughout the year, I never have time to attend during their regular hours. That is why I make sure that I see all their special photography exhibits during the summer. It is usually quiet and you can even ask them to give you a tour and explain the ideas behind some of the artwork. They have some exciting events (external link) coming up that I cannot wait to attend, especially because artists are usually in attendance and you get the opportunity to talk to them about their work! I usually get super inspired and afterwards, find a spot at the Balzac’s café next door to work on some of my own creative projects.
Gain skills and experience with Career Boost
Every summer, TMU’s work-study Career Boost program releases full-time job opportunities for students who wish to work on campus. These roles can range from administrative to social media, event support and more! I have worked on campus every summer and each role has been a unique learning opportunity that has helped me gain new skills. There is also an option to apply to continue the role in a part-time capacity during the school year.
Study spaces all to myself
The TMU campus has so many beautiful study spots that are especially nice during warm summer days! With the sun pouring down on the tables and empty hallways, these spots are my favorite place to work on my writing or simply journal while enjoying some light music.
Summer is also the time I have discovered some amazing study spots on campus— underrated tables at the Sally Horsfall Eaton Centre for Studies in Community Health building (SHE) or the comfortable blue couches in the Ted Rogers School of Management building (TRS). This is the perfect time to explore a quiet campus!
Stay active at the RAC
The Recreation and Athletic Centre (RAC) is also open during the summer with regular programming for all group fitness activities. I love to swim so I often go to the pool during Lane Swim hours! Afterwards, I enjoy a walk around the quad which is usually bright and sunny. I also take advantage of some classes that I am not able to attend during the school year due to scheduling conflicts with classes and work. One of my favourites is the Hip Hot fitness class; it is the perfect combination of energetic and challenging!
Embrace the TMU spirit during Orientation week
I have saved the best for last! Student Life and Learning Support offers volunteer opportunities throughout the year, with one of the biggest offerings being joining the TMU Orientation Crew in the summer. This team is made of students across programs and upper years and is a great way to make new friends and join in on Orientation Week festivities! One of my favorite memories on campus has been working on Orientation; it’s the perfect way to join in on the welcoming TMU spirit. As part of this team, I had the special privilege of welcoming international students to the new city and campus that is to be their second home!
Summer is an exciting time, and I especially love doing everything on campus that I miss or do not get a chance to do during the school year.