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Welcome one and all to graduate studies at U of T! It is sure to be an exciting and busy start to the semester. Who’s ready to get started?

Firstly, let me introduce myself. My name is Alexandra and I am your Gradlife Ambassador in Student Life. A few quick things about me and my experiences at U of T:

• I am starting my second year of an MEd in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy
• I love field hockey and play on the School of Graduate Studies intramural team
• My favourite place for a walk on campus is Philosopher’s Walk

  

If you happen to see me around campus, please feel welcome to come and say hello!

The beginning of a new school year can be overwhelming. With all the new information, it is normal to feel nervous even though it’s exciting.

When I started my first year, I remember thinking: Would I make friends? Would I like Toronto? What is it like to be a graduate student? For many of you, you may be wondering about what it will be like to work with your supervisor.

I also remember feeling embarrassed to admit to worrying about these things. Surely by this point in my educational journey I shouldn’t worry but I still felt butterflies on my first day.

Even if you are coming from an undergraduate experience at U of T, the transition to graduate studies is a change. One thing I can promise- many people feel the same way! When talking with my classmates towards the end of the first semester of my degree, everyone admitted to having similar thoughts and feelings to me when first starting the year.

But fear not! I and the Gradlife team are here to support you in this new experience and provide opportunities and resources to ensure your experience is the best it can be. With our hub of programs, events and campus resources, we’ve got you covered.  

If anyone were to ask me for advice, it would be to look for experiences to engage with U of T outside of academics. Maybe that is a walk in a part of campus that you don’t usually see or attending a workshop. Playing on an intramural team has allowed me to meet new people outside of my program and take a break from studying. There are many great ways to make the most of your graduate experience and Gradlife is here to help.

To get up to date information on graduate student events and resources:

·      Check out the School of Graduate Studies (SGS) Website

·      Let’s be friends! Follow us on twitter and give us a like on Facebook

I hope you have a great start to the semester!

Talk soon,

Alexandra