Fall 2024 Orientation
Updated: June 27, 2024
Welcome to OCAD U!
OCAD University O-DAYS! (orientation and welcome) feature a variety of engaging on-line and in-person activities:
OCAD U 101: Everything you need to know to get started
This self-directed course is designed to support new undergraduate (BFA, BDes, BA) students in getting ready to attend OCAD U this fall. New students are strongly encouraged to complete Module 1: Planning your courses and preparing to register right away, as course registration opens for new students in early July.
New undergraduate students: Stay tuned! Watch your OCAD U email for details about Welcome Day (including team assignment, when and where to arrive) later in August—and this page for regular updates. Join us for any of these fun, informative event options designed to support your success!
Welcome Day: Tuesday, September 3, 2024
New undergraduate students (studying in our bachelor programs) are invited to join us on the campus to kick off the academic year! Engagement is fun and inviting—including a special welcome, information sessions and Service Expo, the Annual Above Ground Art Supplies Materials Fair, and our Community Fair with free lunch: fresh, tasty vegetable samosas and lentil pakoras by Regent Park Catering; and Golden Curry on steamed rice courtesy of Salad King—see more details below under "Workshops, Activities & Socials"!
Are you a Masters student? New graduate students enrolled in Master of Art (MA), Master of Design (MDes), and/or Master of Fine Arts (MFA) programs have a separate in-person orientation planned through Graduate Studies. Watch your email for details and look below for events marked “For Graduate Students”!
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Accessibility: OCAD U strives to provide inclusive, accessible opportunities for the OCAD U community to engage safely. If you require any type of accommodation (including dietary restrictions) in order to participate fully in any of these activities, please email Campus Life.
Call for Submissions
face2face: virtual exhibition 2024
face2face is OCAD U's unique, long-standing tradition of inviting new students to introduce themselves by sending in a new or existing self-portrait in whatever medium you love to work in—drawing, painting, collage, photography, video, animation—anything you want. You could win some fun prizes courtesy of Above Ground Art Supplies!
Workshops, Activities & Socials 2024
See program listings below. Campus Life and university support and service units will deliver online and in-person workshops, socials and activity options designed to support your success getting started at OCAD U!
OCAD U 101: Everything you need to know to get started
This self-directed course is designed to support new undergraduate (BFA, BDes, BA) students in getting ready to attend OCAD U this fall. New students are strongly encouraged to complete Module 1: Planning your courses and preparing to register right away, as course registration opens for new students in early July.
July
Laptop Program Information Session
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
Presented by: Laptop Program
Audience: all new students and their families
Platform: Microsoft Teams
Learn about what laptop you will need to bring to OCAD U, what software we provide and how we support your creativity with technology at OCAD U. For students and parents of students entering OCAD U in September 2024.
RSVP required: Register here to participate...
Are you in Toronto for the summer, looking for ways to connect with other OCAD U students? Get involved and familiar with our campus and the city! Connect! Network! Socialize! All new and current students welcome!
Be sure to visit the summer Welcome Squad event page for activity details, dates, and how to sign up to participate in programming scheduled through to August 31*:
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JULY 2024
Monday, July 15, 2024
Field Trip: Textile Museum of Canada
Thursday, July 17, 2024
Maker Space Series 1: Rock Painting
Sunday, July 21, 2024
Field Trip: BIG on Bloor Festival of Arts & Culture
Tuesday, July 23, 2024
Field Trip: Kensington Market & Community Tour
Wednesday, July 24, 2024
Art Cram
Saturday, July 27, 2024
Field Trip: Toronto Islands Series - Hanlan's Point
Saturday, July 27, 2024
Field Trip: Movie Night Series: Free Pizza at Sorauren Park
Sunday, July 28, 2024
Field Trip: Salsa on Market Street
Wednesday, July 31, 2024
Maker Space Series 2: Button-Making and Clay-Sculpting
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AUGUST 2024
Thursday, August 1, 2024
Campus Tour 1
Friday, August 2, 2024
Board Games 01
Saturday, August 3, 2024
Field Trip: Evergreen Brick Works Saturday Farmers Market
Sunday, August 4, 2024
Field Trip: Movie Night at Christie Pits
Tuesday, August 6, 2024
Field Trip: Royal Ontario Museum
Wednesday, August 7, 2024
Field Trip: Toronto Islands Series - Ward's Island
Friday, August 9, 2024
Field Trip: Trivia Night at Hugs and Sarcasm
Saturday, August 10, 2024
Field Trip: Picnic Series 1: Queen West Community Tour and Trinity Bellwoods Picnic
Tuesday, August 13, 2024
Maker Space Series 3: Crochet Fun!
Wednesday, August 14, 2024
Field Trip: Kensington Market & Community Tour
Thursday, August 15, 2024
Board Games 02
Friday, August 16, 2024
Campus Tour 2
Saturday, August 17, 2024
Picnic Series 2: Trivia Afternoon at Grange Park
Sunday, August 18, 2024
Field Trip: Movie Night at Christie Pits
Tuesday, August 20, 2024
Field Trip: Toronto Islands Series - Centre Island
Wednesday, August 21, 2024
Maker Space Series 4: Mini-Zine Workshop
Thursday, August 22 , 2024
International Field Trip: Fan Expo
Friday, August 23, 2024
Picnic Series 3: Spike Ball at Grange Park
Saturday, August 24, 2024
Field Trip: Outdoor Movie & Free Pizza at Sorauren Park
Sunday, August 25, 2024
Ice-breaker Scavenger Hunt at Grange Park
Monday, August 26, 2024
International Campus Tour 1
Tuesday, August 27, 2024
International Community Tour
Wednesday, August 28, 2024
Campus Tour 3
Thursday, August 29, 2024
International Field Trip: AGO
Friday, August 30, 2024
International Campus Tour 2
And more!
*Subject to change
August
stART Program
August 19 to 22, 2024
Presented by: Student Accessibility Services (SAS)
Audience: Undergraduate students
Platform: In-person
A free summer transition program for OCAD U students with disabilities.
Topics include:
- University supports
- Learning strategies
- Tips and guidance from upper-year students, instructors and support services
Perks:
- Daily lunch
- Meet new people on your program
- Fun activities
- Navigate the OCAD U campus before fall classes begin
- Swag bags
RSVP required: Register here to participate...
International Students: Welcome to OCAD U!
Monday, August 19, 2024
10 to 11:30 a.m. ET
Presented by: International Student Support Office
Audience: all international students
Platform: Microsoft Teams
Join us to learn about the services and resources available at the University to support you as an international student and enhance your studies.
RSVP required: Register here to participate...
Health Insurance & Healthcare in Ontario
Tuesday, August 20, 2024
10 to 11:30 a.m. ET
Presented by: International Student Support Office , Student Wellness Centre and Studentcare
Audience: all international students
Platform: Microsoft Teams
Join us to learn about your student health insurance plans, the healthcare system in Ontario and how the Student Wellness Centre can support you during your studies.
RSVP required: Register here to participate...
Life in Transit(ion)
Wednesday, August 21, 2024
10 to 11:30 a.m. ET
Presented by: Student Wellness Centre and International Student Support Office
Audience: all international students
Platform: Microsoft Teams
In this orientation session, we will:
- Identify the various transitions that international students may encounter
- Discuss the potential impacts of these transitions on life, school, and overall well being
- Share considerations and resources to support international students as they navigate these transitions and impacts.
RSVP required: Register here to participate...
IT Ask Us Anything Session
Wednesday, August 21, 2024
7 to 8 p.m. ET
Presented by: IT Services
Audience: all new students
Platform: Microsoft Teams
IT Services supports your creativity with technology at OCAD U, and we're here to answer your questions about computer technology. Whether you have questions about the Laptop Program, software, or other creative technology available to you at OCAD U, we want to help!
RSVP required: Register here to participate...
Immigration Info Session for Undergrad Students
Thursday, August 22, 2024
10 to 11:30 a.m. ET
Presented by: International Student Support Office
Audience: international undergraduate students
Platform: Microsoft Teams
Join us to learn about the conditions of your study permit, working on and off campus during your studies and the post-graduation work permit program.
RSVP required: Register here to participate...
Immigration Info Session for Grad Students
Friday, August 23, 2024
10 to 11:30 a.m. ET
Presented by: International Student Support Office
Audience: international graduate students
Platform: Microsoft Teams
Join us to learn about the conditions of your study permit, working on and off campus during your studies and the post-graduation work permit program.
RSVP required: Register here to participate...
International Student Campus Tour
Monday, August 26, 2024
1 to 3 p.m.
Presented by: International Student Support Office and Campus Life Welcome Squad
Audience: all international students
Join us for a guided tour of OCAD University. Explore the main campus, the library and much more while connecting with other new students!
RSVP required: Register here to participate...
Meet outside the main entrance of 100 McCaul Street at 12:45 p.m.
International Student Community Tour
Tuesday, August 27, 2024
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Presented by: International Student Support Office and Campus Life Welcome Squad
Audience: all international students
Lunch provided
In this tour, we are going to show you grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants and shopping malls near the campus. You will connect and network with other students and explore the core of downtown Toronto.
RSVP required: Register here to participate...
Meet outside the main entrance of 100 McCaul Street at 10:45 a.m.
Attend your Faculty Meet & Greet
August 27 & 29, 2024
Presented by Campus Life, Faculty of Art, Faculty of Arts & Science, and Faculty of Design
Audience: Undergraduate students
New and first-year students are invited to join us to kick-start the fall term! Connect with your respective peers, Deans, Program Chairs and faculty and learn about the amazing opportunities available to you through your Faculty office! Light refreshments will be provided.
Faculty of Arts & Science
Tuesday, August 27, 2024
10 am to 12 pm
Level 2, 115 McCaul Street
RSVP required: register here to participate...
Faculty of Art
Tuesday, August 27, 2024
1 to 3 pm
Level 2, 115 McCaul Street
RSVP required: register here to participate...
Faculty of Design
Thursday, August 29, 2024
10 am to 12 pm
Level 6, 100 McCaul Street (2D programs: Advertising Graphic Design, Illustration)
Level 5, 100 McCaul Street (3D programs: Environmental Design, Industrial Design, Material Art & Design)
RSVP required: register here to participate...
Campus Employment Program for International Students (CEPIS)
Wednesday, August 28, 2024
10:00 to 11:30 a.m.
Presented by: International Student Support Office
Audience: international students
Platform: Microsoft Teams
Join us to learn about working on campus through the Campus Employment Program for International Students (CEPIS)! We’ll tell you about the types of jobs available and how to apply. You’ll also hear from other students about their experiences working on campus.
RSVP required: Register here to participate...
Campus Life CONNECT U
Wednesday, August 28, 2024
1 to 5 p.m.
Presented by Campus Life and Student Mentor Program
Audience: Undergraduate students
Location: Library Learning Zone
Make plans to attend CONNECT U, a social/connection opportunity for Peer Mentors, Student Mentees and any other first-year students interested!
12:15 to 12:45 pm: Peer Mentors group photo
1 pm: Mentees /first-year students arrive, mingle, connect
1:30 pm: Guest facilitator, Gary Newman
3 to 4 pm: pizza / continued connection
4 pm: Welcome Squad Campus Tour
RSVP required: register here to participate...
International Student Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) Tour
Thursday, August 29, 2024
1 to 3 p.m.
Presented by: International Student Support Office and Campus Life Welcome Squad
Audience: all international students
Join us on a visit to one of the greatest art museums in North America! You will see spectacular collections of Canadian art and art from around the world. You will also be able to connect and socialize with other new international students.
RSVP required: Register here to participate...
Meet outside the main entrance of 100 McCaul Street at 12:45 p.m.
International Student Campus Tour
Friday, August 30, 2024
1 to 3 p.m.
Presented by: International Student Support Office and Campus Life Welcome Squad
Audience: international students
Join us for a guided tour of OCAD University. Explore the main campus, the library and much more while connecting with other new students!
RSVP required: Register here to participate...
Meet outside the main entrance of 100 McCaul Street at 12:45 p.m.
September
Photo ID Cards and Locker Rental
Photo ID
Your OCAD U photo ID card (or student card) is an important tool that gives you access to borrowing equipment and library materials, obtaining help desk support, swipe access to some OCAD U spaces and buildings, and more.
Find out how to get your OCAD U student ID card!
Locker Rental
OCAD U’s locker rental process is an online service. Students can use the online form to rent a locker.
Find out how to rent a locker!
Welcome Day for Undergrads!
Tuesday, September 3, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Presented by: Campus Life
Audience: Undergraduate students
Location: 100 McCaul Street
New undergraduate students (studying in our bachelor programs) are invited to join us on the campus to kick off the academic year! Engagement is fun and encouraging, informative and entertaining, designed to educate, connect, and familiarize you with the campus. Watch your email August 24 for team assignment and details!
Planning to attend Welcome Day? RSVP required: Register here to participate...
8:30 to 9:30 a.m.
Mature Student Coffee & Connect
Presented by Campus Life and Mature Student Collective
Audience: new and returning mature undergrad students
Location: Room 284, Level 2, 100 McCaul Street
Are you a mature student pursuing an undergraduate degree at a later stage in life? You are invited to start the day with an informal opportunity to connect with peers over coffee and doughnuts!
Planning to attend Mature Student Coffee & Connect? RSVP required: Register here to participate...
9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
- Meet your Team Captains, connect with your teams and get your team pins!
- Collect your free O-KIT
- Join our Indigenous welcome from Elder Liz Osawamick and greetings from President & Vice-Chancellor Ana Serrano and your OCAD Student Union (OCAD SU)
- Check out our Student Services Expo where you can meet our staff, SU reps, and learn about our many supports and resources
- Participate in fun OCAD U Kahoot trivia and learn more about your new school and a chance to win prizes!
- And more!
1:30 to 4 p.m.
Stick around for our afternoon Community Fair featuring:
- The Annual Above Ground Art Supplies Art Materials Fair
- Special guest hosts from OCAD U LiVE
- Visit the student group and community tables
- Free lunch: fresh, tasty vegetable samosas by Regent Park Catering; roast corn my Mr. Corn; and Golden Curry on steamed rice courtesy of Salad King!
2 to 3 p.m.
International Student Coffee Break
Presented by International Student Support Office
Audience: new and returning undergrad and grad international students
Location: Levels 5 and 6, 230 Richmond St. West
Take a break from Welcome Day activities and visit Student Advising, the Student Wellness Centre and the International Student Support Office for coffee, tea, and snacks! This casual, drop-in event is a great way to learn about the support and services provided by these departments and meet staff and other international students.
Drop in! No registration needed!
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Quiet Space: Need to get away from the noise and action of Welcome Day! for a little break, meditation or quiet contemplation? The OCAD Student Union's Jim Meekison Student Lounge (274, Level 2, 100 McCaul Street) has been designated as Quiet Space during orientation. Another option are our Multi-Faith Rooms (657, Level 6, 100 McCaul Street and 305b, Level 3, 230 Richmond St. West).
Indigenous OCAD U Students
Stop by the Indigenous Student Centre booth throughout Welcome Day (Service Expo in the morning and Community Fair in the afternoon)! Meet some of our staff, learn about our services, and enter for your chance to win a gift basket full of goodies from Indigenous-owned businesses!
Welcome Day for Graduate Students!
Tuesday, September 3, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Presented by School of Graduate Studies
Audience: graduate students
Location: TBA
Join us for an in-person welcome to Graduate Studies at OCAD University! Orientation Day will include a meet and greet with faculty, staff and fellow students, workshops and presentations, and individual program meetings.
Details TBA
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Photography: please be advised that OCAD U-hosted events may be documented through photography and video. These images may be used by the University for promotional, advertising, and educational purposes. By participating in our events, both on-campus and off-site, you consent to allowing OCAD U to document and use your images and likeness. However, if you do not want to be photographed or included in video, please don’t hesitate to let us know when you arrive at the event.