Gradlife

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It’s the start of the new year, which means it’s a good time for a new start. If popular media is to be believed, most of us are clamouring to get our spots at the gym or signing up for some hobby classes to get a good start on our resolutions. Or maybe you don’t have any resolutions, because you believe you pursuing things when it’s the right time, not when everyone else is doing it. though that doesn’t stop you from thinking about them.

All of this is good for us. It makes us take stock and think about things that we need to change or improve about ourselves. While resolutions are great, some of them can get lofty, making them hard to follow through. It’s important to balance your goals, and balance yourself through the goals you make. This year, my resolution is different than ones I’ve made in the past. Instead of promising myself a poutine if I go to the gym everyday, I resolve to try new things, take care of myself, become more aware of my own needs and grow as a person. If your resolution is similar to mine, well, we’re in luck. U of T seems to be the perfect place to be because…

1. We have Massage Mondays

Sometimes, “taking care of myself” means “go to a day spa”. Alas, grad students on a budget can’t usually afford to go to the day spa. Good thing we have Massage Mondays. Every Monday, massage therapists come on campus to give you free mini Shiatsu massages in Hart House from 12-3pm. Is there a better way to start the week? No. I don’t think so.

2. You can Get Crafty!

Another Hart House special, Get Crafty! happens every Thursday in the Reading Room. This is perfect for those of us who want to pick up a hobby, but don’t want to commit to a class we’re not sure we’ll like. You get to try making different crafts every week, like mini envelopes or notebooks. Best of all, this is free!

3. There’s a place for you to get to know yourself

There are hundreds of nooks and crannies on campus for you to claim as your quiet place. Some of us feel comfortable reflecting alone. Not everyone is, though. For those of us who would like a bit of guidance, or want to try a different way to self-reflect, we can visit U of T’s Poet in Community for that. Ronna Bloom holds workshops that help students explore their creative sides.

4. There’s always an opportunity to upgrade yourself

As grad students, you’re not just experts in your field, you’re also experts of yourself. It means you should get to know yourself, but it also means you should be the best version of yourself. The Career Centre always has workshops and services to help you with your career. Grad students can take advantage of grad-specific programming, such as Grad Talks and Graduate Professional Skills (GPS). Grad Talks is a new series of seminars and workshops that gives grad students a chance to build skills and learn soft skills. The first one is next Thursday, and is all about discovering your strengths. I just signed up – hope to see some of you there!

What are some of your goals this year? Share them in the comments below!