Wolfie's Weekly Adventures: Issue 5

Wolfie's Weekly Adventures Issue 5 Banner


We know Wolfie hasn’t been in hibernation, but we can’t believe July flew by so quickly! Now that it’s August, we’re officially in ORIENTATION MONTH! We still have lots of work to do in the Student Success Centre to get ready for you, and it would help us out a lot if you could make sure you’re registered for Orientation!

Wolfie is very excited about this week’s issue for two reasons: 1) You’ll learn about a few student resources that will make your #LakeheadAdventure easier and 2) FOOD. In Issue 4 we talked about where you can eat on campus… but there’s a whole world of great food out there, folks. We’ve rounded up a few of our favourite places to grab a bite to eat off campus. 

If you missed last week’s issue, please click here!

And one last thing...this week’s edition of Wolfie’s Newsletter is sponsored by Alterna Savings Credit Union. This friendly team can set you up with all of your financial needs as a student. Head to their location at 1201 Amber Drive in Thunder Bay, check out their website at www.alterna.ca and follow them on social media @alternasavingscu to see how they can set you up.

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So what are you waiting for? Get eating---we mean, reading!

Orientation Update 

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The final countdown is on! In just a few weeks, your #LakeheadAdventure begins with the year’s most anticipated event - Fall Orientation! Have you signed up yet? The schedule will be online at newadventure.lakeheadu.ca in just a few short days so if you haven’t already done so, we invite you to register for our Thunderwolves Howl Orientation! Orientation is an integral part of any new student’s transition to Lakehead and we don’t want you to miss out. 

OUR REGISTRATION SYSTEM IS UNDERGOING SITE MAINTENANCE. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER AFTER MONDAY, AUGUST 19! Thank you for your patience.

 

 
New Student Intake Survey 

We know, we know...the title of this section is super catchy. But good news -- it's your first University multiple choice quiz with no wrong answers and there are prizes involved! 

As you prepare for your journey to Lakehead, we want to get to know you so we can best support you and your individual needs. As a result, you are invited to complete a New Student Intake Survey. Participation is voluntary, should take 10 minutes or less, and you can decline to answer any question. 

The questions in the survey are intended to provide us with information to better direct you to campus supports available at Lakehead University. You are not obligated to participate and are free to withdraw at any time without repercussions. Your responses will be shared with the Lakehead University Student Affairs team to better inform our programming and help us reach out with any supports you might need. 

After completing the survey, you will receive tailored communications with information on how to access the supports you identified. You will also be entered into a draw for a chance to win 1 of 3 grand prizes including a $150 Lakehead University Bookstore Gift Card, $100 Best Buy Gift Card and $50 Starbucks Gift Card. (See, told you there were prizes!)

Your responses will be kept confidential and will be securely retained in your applicant ID on myInfo until you graduate or for a maximum of 5 years. 

To access the survey click here. 

Should you have any questions, wish to get receive more information or a copy of your responses, or want to withdraw at any time please contact Aimee Jaun, Associate Vice Provost, Students at ssc@lakeheadu.ca. If you choose to withdraw, your responses will be removed from the database immediately.

Please note that this research study has been reviewed and approved by the Lakehead University Research Ethics Board. If you have any questions related to the ethics of the research and would like to speak to someone outside of the research team, please contact Sue Wright at the Research Ethics Board at 807-343-8283 or research@lakeheadu.ca

 
Academic Success 

The Academic Support Zone is your go-to place to receive tutoring and writing support. Everyone is welcome in the Zone! Outside of the times when academic supports are being offered, the Zone is an excellent place for quiet study. All students receive free, unlimited group tutoring within major subject areas. If you need one-on-one assistance, we can help connect you with a private tutor too! If you are looking for support with academic writing, you can book an appointment with a Writing Coach via mySuccess.

In Orillia, we’re located in OR 1013. In Thunder Bay, find us on the second floor of the main Library. Stop by and check it out!

 
Campus Connections 

The Library is an excellent space for studying, research, group collaboration, etc. The main libraries for both campuses are conveniently located in the middle of each campus, there are quiet study areas available as well as private rooms to book for studying and group work. The library also offers resource borrowing, printing and computer services, and equipment rental. Familiarize yourself with their website here and if you need help, visit the circulation desk for assistance. In addition to our main libraries, we have other libraries across campus that serve students from different programs. They are listed at the bottom of the library website.

The Bookstore is your one-stop shop for Lakehead gear! Lakehead's Thunder Bay and Orillia bookstores offer a wide variety of merchandise for sale, including textbooks, clothing, giftware, stationery supplies and backpacks. Both bookstores are non-profit organizations which means all profits from our bookstores go directly towards the funding of bursaries and scholarships for our students. They have fantastic sales on all the time so check out the bookstore and start shopping today! On our Orillia campus, you can find the bookstore next to the cafeteria. In Thunder Bay, the bookstore is located down the steps from the Security office.

 
Lakehead Tools:  AWARE & MyCourseLink 

AWARE, the Academic Writing and Research E-Learning site, is a resource to help support academic skills, knowledge, and strategies that are essential to being a university student. Each module consists of a combination of text-based resources, videos, and links to additional support materials to enhance your learning. After completing each module, you will receive a certificate of completion. We highly recommend completing the first module (Academic Integrity) before beginning your studies in September! You can access AWARE via MyCourseLink by clicking “Self-Registration: Academic Support and Training” on the right-hand side.

Speaking of MyCourseLink, this is Lakehead’s online learning management system that houses online content for your classes. As a Lakehead student, you will be able to use myCourselink to access your course information, submit assignments, participate in group discussions, and much more. myCourselink is something you will be using a lot as a student, so take this time to become familiar with it!  You can access myCourselink by logging on to mycourselink.lakeheadu.ca using your Lakehead credentials. To get started, click on the “Help” link on the right hand side. There are some great video tutorials that will teach you how to use myCourselink and some of its helpful features. Please note that your courses may not be activated until classes begin in September!

 
Hometown Pride: Thunder Bay 

If you love to eat, you’ve come to the right place. Thunder Bay has no shortage of excellent local dining options. In fact, most visitors are surprised by both the quality and the variety in a city of our size. We’ve narrowed down some of our favourites below, but this is a very small sampling of what our city has to offer.

Cheap Eats

The Persian Man - Just minutes from Lakehead, you must visit this spot to try Thunder Bay’s famous sweet delicacy - the persian. While you’re there, try a crispy chicken wrap for lunch!

Maltese - Located in downtown Port Arthur, this locally owned deli/ butcher shop has everything from steaks to fresh pasta. But, if you’re looking for a quick, inexpensive lunch, grab a sandwich made-to-order. They have tons of options for meats, cheeses and vegetables.

Mid-Range

Daytona's - close to campus and provides a laid-back atmosphere with a surprising menu. A previous champ in “Top Chef Thunder Bay”, Chef Andrew Stone has created a menu that is affordable and doesn’t compromise on taste. From fried chicken to seafood linguine, you can’t go wrong at Daytona’s. Their breakfast is delicious, too.

Sovereign Room - Blink and you might miss it! If you find the Kim Lee’s Chinese restaurant sign on Red River road, you’ve found the Sov! This is a casual place to unwind with friends, grab some good grub, and enjoy specialty brunch on the weekends. They’re also very proud of their quirky mixture of VHS movies that play all night long.

The Growing Season - has become a very popular spot for a healthy, fresh lunch. The local owners thrive on making everything in house, with local produce and ingredients. Everything on the menu is a must try… and if the Growing Season is too busy, try their sister restaurant Rebel Salad. You haven’t met a salad until you’ve seen one at RS.

Thai Kitchen - Located in the bustling “downtown Port Arthur” side of town, Thai Kitchen is the go-to for delicious pad thai and a variety of thai curries and other popular dishes. As a bonus, if you order take-out and bring your own containers, you’ll get a discount!

The Foundry - is one of Thunder Bay’s hot spots for hanging out downtown. Listen to live music and share some great appetizers with friends. They are notorious for their mozzarella “sticks” (more like logs)… using local Thunder Bay gouda cheese.

Bonobo’s - is located just a few blocks from Lakehead University. Thunder Bay voted Bonobo’s for the best veggie burgers! Everything is vegetarian and made fresh in-house. Even the poutine is “healthy”...

Damascus Donair - is close to our hearts! Opened by one of the first Syrian refugee families to move to our city, the pride in their food radiates throughout. Their homemade hummus and fantastic donairs are very popular!

Fine(r) Dining

Tomlin - Transporting you into a world of variety and decorative charm, Tomlin’s menu changes like the wind, keeping the food fresh and interesting. If you’re looking for an approachable, but unique, dining experience, head to Tomlin with some friends and share many plates off their menu. You won’t be disappointed!

Caribou - With modern food and a relaxed atmosphere, head to the Caribou for some fresh pasta, wood oven pizza, or a perfectly cooked protein. You can even sit beside the kitchen and enjoy the full experience! Caribou has been listed in "Where to Eat in Canada" for several years running.

The Silver Birch - offers a wide selection of Canadian regional dishes featuring local meat, cheese and various products. Located in the heart of our Waterfront district, their menu includes fish from Lake Superior, wild game and traditional favourites with a northern flare.

Lot 66 - combines a cozy lounge atmosphere with mouth-watering food. There really is something for everyone on this reasonably-priced menu including salads, pizzas, and a very wide variety of main dishes. Finish your meal off with one of their incredible desserts -- flourless chocolate torte is one of Wolfie’s favourites!

Breakfast Spots

The Hoito - This basement restaurant is a Thunder Bay landmark as it is over 100 years old. Featured on “You Gotta Eat Here!” and home of the Finnish traditional pancake, it’s a must-have when you are in Thunder Bay. You can get these thin, tasty pancakes at any time of the day.

Niva’s Restaurant - is located just blocks from Lakehead University. They offer a wide variety of breakfast and lunch options. Try the hot turkey sandwich and a slice of Niva’s homemade pie!

 
Hometown Pride: Orillia 

We may be a smaller city, but we have big hearts...and big appetites! We’ve narrowed down some of our favourites below, suggested by students, so we'll know you'll love them!

Downtown Favourites

Brewery Bay - Brewery Bay’s slogan is Good Grub, Great Pub: a statement that is 100% true. Operating in Orillia since 1998, Brewery Bay offers a wide variety of food and drinks at a reasonable price. There is something there for everyone!

Kenzington Burger Bar - Home to Simcoe County, Kenzington Burger Bar has the best burgers in town! Whether you enjoy the classic cheeseburger or want something a little more extravagant (and maybe with peanut butter!), Kenzington Burger Bar is the place to go! Located Downtown, it is easily accessed from the bus route.

Rustica - Do you love wood-fired pizza? Look no further - Rustica is for you!

Shine - Check out this awesome juice bar and cafe. The menu is completely plant-based and gluten free, and 90% of the menu items are locally sourced and organic.

Studabakers Beachside - Freshly renovated, Studabakers is the place to be during patio season! In addition to the sun soaked patio, Studabakers creates a friendly atmosphere with pub food and great service.

Tres Sorelle - The three sisters of Tres Sorelle make homemade Italian delicacies that range from mouthwatering main courses (pasta of course!) to decadent desserts!

Yo! Taco - Quick, easy, and delicious! If you’re a taco, nacho, or burrito lover, then Yo! Taco would be a place to check out.

Coffee, Tea, and Sweets, oh my!

Apple Annie’s - Both a cafe and shop, Apple Annie’s offers a quiet, comfortable space to study or catch up with friends. Feeling something a little on the sweet side? Try Apple Annie’s famous fudge!

Mariposa Market - If you go to Orillia and don’t visit Mariposa Market, did you really go to Orillia? This is an absolute classic - home of the Texas Donut and treats that taste just like Grandma’s! Mariposa Market has been operating since 1911.

Mark IV Brothers - Mark IV Brothers is the perfect off-campus study spot. Cozy couches, awesome tunes, and tasty coffee.

Verona Coffee Co. - Be sure to check out this quaint coffee shop in the heart of the Peter Street Arts District. Perfect place to catch up with a friend over coffee!

Close to Campus

Aladdin - Aladdin is the go-to spot in town for Indian cuisine. Their friendly staff and plentiful menu make every meal a treat. Their buffet is not to be missed!

Garlic Democracy- Located in the West Ridge Plaza (very close to campus), this pizza place offers personal pizzas that are oven roasted and coated with a special garlic sauce. Not a pizza lover? They have amazing salads, too.

Theo’s - Craving a home cooked meal? Theo’s is the next best thing. Specializing in Italian, Greek, and Canadian cuisine, your belly will always leave happy after a trip to Theo’s.

Thai Plate - If you love Thai food, then you will love Thai Plate! Awesome menu and friendly staff, this is perfect spot for a meal out. Check out their lunch buffet, too!

Tops In Pizza - Tops In Pizza has been serving Orillia delicious pizza since 1974. They can’t be beat! Gluten-free and keto options available!

Classics

Hills Maple Leaf Restaurant - Breakfast, lunch, dinner? Hills has it all! This small but mighty restaurant will soon become one of your favourites.

Weber’s - If you’ve been to Orillia before, chances are you’ve tried a tasty charcoal barbecued burger from Weber’s. It’s an experience you certainly cannot miss! Great spot for a study break with friends when the sun is shining.

 
Your Student Guidebook 

We've created a fancy new guidebook to streamline all of your next steps in your #lakeheadadventure. While you have been sent a hard copy in the mail, you can browse our digital version anytime on the Student Success Centre website. Click here to view your New Student Guidebook!

 
Prize Alert! 

If it wasn’t clear before, it should be by now…Wolfie (and the SSC staff) love good food. If you want a change from cafeteria food or you don’t feel like doing dishes, we hope you take advantage of the many, many excellent local establishments to try something new. However, we all know comfort food is something many first-year students miss from home. Tell us -- what home-cooked meal or comfort food is YOUR favourite? Like our Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and comment on Issue 5’s post with your answer for your chance to win this week’s prize pack! *Contest closes at 11:59pm on August 14, 2019. Limited to 1 entry per student*

 

Stay tuned for Issue #6 of Wolfie's Weekly Adventures, coming to your inbox on Thursday, August 16th, 2019!

Follow us on social media to check in on Wolfie all summer but also to stay connected as a new student throughout the year! Your go-to Facebook, Instagram and Twitter handles to keep track of on-campus events that you’ll definitely want to know about are below:

Thunder Bay:

 Facebook logofacebook.com/lakeheadsuccess/

 Twitter Logotwitter.com/lakeheadsuccess

 Instagram Logoinstagram.com/lakeheadsuccess/

  

Orillia:

 Facebook logofacebook.com/LakeheadOSA // facebook.com/lakeheaduniversityorillia

 Twitter Logotwitter.com/LakeheadOSA // twitter.com/lakeheadorillia

 Instagram Logoinstagram.com/lakeheadosa // instagram.com/lakeheadorillia