Gradlife

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Winter break is here! The last four months flew right by. I don’t know about you, but this break was a long time coming. In my first post, I talked about exploring what it’s like to be a grad student. Now that I’m a quarter of the way through my degree, I’m still no closer to knowing what that being a grad student means. So far, grad life is a lot of like undergrad life, except… More grad-y? What do you think? Is your grad life very different from your undergrad life?

Now that the semester is over, we’re free for the next two weeks. The university will be closed from December 23 to January 6. What are you doing over the break? While some of us are flying out of town, the rest of us are staying in Toronto. I’m back home the next two weeks, but I’ve always wanted to spend the holidays in Toronto. If I were there, right now, I would…

1.Go see The Nutcracker

Performed by the talented National Ballet of Canada, The Nutcracker is a story about a toy that… Wait. Why am I telling you about it? You can find out about it yourself when you go see it. The special thing about the ballet is that special guests take part in the show. I hear that Chris Hadfield is going to make a special appearance this year.

2. Skate on The Harbourfront

I am not graceful in skates. The last time I skated, I fell and seriously twisted my ankle within ten minutes of stepping on the ice. Even though I am a hazard to myself on the ice, I would still love to (try to) skate at The Harbourfront, right between the lake and the city lights. I would especially love to go to their DJ Skate Nights on Saturdays.

3. Watch Les Misérables

My favourite Broadway musical is in Toronto, and it pains me that I can’t watch it. If you enjoyed the movie at all, you will love the live production. If you plan on going, get your tickets ASAP. Shows sell out fast. They might have same-day tickets for a discounted price, but you might want to contact Mirvish Productions to be sure.

4. Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Massey Hall’s New Year’s Eve Comedy Extravaganza

Who wouldn’t want to spend New Year’s Eve watching a comedy show and finish the night off with walking around downtown, waiting for midnight? I’ve never heard of the event before, but it sounds like a fun way to ring in the new year.

5. Volunteer around the city

It’s always good to take a step back from our busy lives and spend time helping others. There are many volunteer opportunities (another link here) around the city that aren’t listed in the links I provided, so you might have to look around a bit. Contact a not-for-profit organization or charity that you support and ask if they need any help this season.

Of course, now is a great time to visit places we didn’t have time to visit during the semester. The Royal Ontario Museum, the Art Gallery of Ontario, Casa Loma and a whole bunch of other places have holiday hours. Remember to google it before you head out.

I hope you all have a great winter break. Rest, eat lots of good food and enjoy your time off. See you in the new year!