Life as a U of T student is an exciting journey filled with endless opportunities to explore diverse study, work, and rest spaces across the campus. In the second of a three-part series, Maribeth chats with iHub member, Meera Lafir, about her favourite UTSG campus locations as a student-parent.
Written by Maribeth Manalaysay Tabanera, Blog Writer and Content Writer, Master of Education in Social Justice Education
From serene libraries to vibrant student hubs, U of T offers a variety of spots that cater to different needs and preferences, making it easy for students to find their niche and build a sense of community. The U of T campuses are massive spaces, where you can feel quite alone. So where do people find community and places to focus on work?
To answer this, I interviewed my iHub colleague, Meera Lafir, who is a Graphic Designer at the Innovation Hub and a graduate student currently completing her Master of Information at U of T’s iSchool. Born in Dubai, Meera moved to Toronto in 2016 and currently lives with her husband and four-year-old daughter.
Meera’s Reflections: Student-Parent Life
Maribeth: Can you share some of your favourite places at U of T for studying and relaxing?
Meera: Sure! One of my favourite spots is the Learning Hub, located on the fourth and fifth floors of the Bissell Building, close to Robarts. It’s a bright, open space, which is a nice change from the darker areas of Robarts and Bissell. They even have isolated, soundproof pods for two people, which are perfect for quiet study sessions. Another good spot is the student lounge in the iSchool, which is upstairs. It has a microwave and board games, although no one really uses the games. It’s nice to know they considered it a multi-functional space.
There’s also a Family Study Room in Robarts, on the ninth floor. It’s a dedicated space for students who are parents, and it has books and toys. However, it’s a bit inconvenient that there’s no microwave there. You have to go to Starbucks in Robarts to use their microwave, which usually has a line. Despite that, the Family Study Room is a helpful and exclusive space for parents.
Maribeth: Are there any lesser-known or hidden gem spots on campus you enjoy for taking breaks or enjoying nature?
Meera: I used to enjoy the encampment area because it allowed me to sit in nature, particularly near the fences. Now that it’s no longer an encampment, I don’t feel as comfortable there. Another favourite is the Earth Sciences building, which has a covered area with tree stumps where you can sit and enjoy the greenery. It’s the only place at U of T where I’ve found such a natural setting. U of T could use more green spaces and terraces. The campus, especially the iSchool next to Robarts, feels too concrete and gray. A bit of greenery would be a refreshing change.
Maribeth: How do you balance focused work, social interaction, and relaxation on campus?
Meera: For social interaction, I usually message my friends to see if they’re on campus. For focused work, the Learning Hub is excellent. You can book study rooms or use the isolation pods for quiet study sessions. I also appreciate that the Learning Hub has a prayer area in Robarts, which is convenient for me.
Maribeth: Any final thoughts on the best places at U of T for work, play, and rest?
Meera: I haven’t had much time for extracurricular activities because my daughter, Ayesha, takes up most of my free time. However, the Learning Hub, Family Study Room, and Earth Sciences building are all great places for balancing work and relaxation.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a new or current student, staff, or alumni, we encourage you to dive into the rich campus life at U of T. Get involved with on-campus activities, discover hidden gems, and connect with fellow students to make the most of your university experience. Your perfect study, work, or rest spot is just waiting to be found!
Stay tuned for Part 3 where we discuss insights from and tips for commuter students.
Resources
U of T’s Family Study Space at Robarts
A room stocked with children’s toys, books, chalkboard, whiteboard, computer stations and more, so that parents or guardians can conduct their research while supervising their little ones at the library.
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