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One of the things I find most interesting about campus is the merging of old and new, modern and aged. And so, taking a cue from this article, Before You Graduate: Things That Every U of T Student Should Do Once, I decided to venture into two of the architectural landmarks of campus – the study pod at the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, and the Soldier’s Tower at Hart House. I had not explored either of these two spaces in the past, and so were fitting to add to my own U of T Bucket List.

The Pharmacy building is that fancy, space-age one located at the north-west corner of College and University. Unfortunately, I was unable to go into the lecture halls that exist in the pods themselves (the admin I spoke to was on her way to lunch, and didn’t want to even entertain the idea of unlocking the pod for me), but I spent a good few hours reading in the study area located above the pod. Although marked “For Pharmacy Students Only”, I took advantage of summer hours and parked there regardless. I am not sure how closely monitored this is at other times – perhaps it would require more deceitful occupation during regular school hours. Regardless, it’s a pretty nifty place to study – full of lots of natural light, private lamps and new swivel chairs! The building itself is a bit of an architectural marvel, so I suggest just popping in for a look around, even if you don’t stay long.

The Soldier’s Tower at Hart House is one of those hidden gems that makes me love campus. Built in 1924 in memory of the 627 students lost during the Great War, it is Canada’s second tallest war memorial, after Ottawa’s Peace Tower. Schedule your visit for when the tower is open, and you can be witness to the beautiful stained-glass windows, as well as the museum of historical wartime artifacts located atop the tower. It’s definitely a worthwhile visit, and has knowledgeable staff working to offer additional backstory in addition to the informational plaques provided. A bucket list location for sure!

The hours of the Tower vary, as it is run by volunteer staff. Here are the scheduled openings through June. Appointments can be made outside of stated times for groups, or those doing research.

• Monday May 21^st: Noon – 2pm
• Saturday May 26^th: 11:3am – 1:30pm
• Friday June 1^st: 11am – 5pm
• Saturday June 2^nd: 11am – 3pm
• Sunday June 3^rd: Noon – 2pm
• Tuesday June 5^th: 2pm – 4pm
• Wednesday June 6^th: 1pm – 5:30pm

For more information please contact: soldiers.tower@utoronto.ca.