Orillia Orientation

University is a very different experience than high school. Let's talk about it!

Especially if you are coming to university straight from secondary school, these differences might seem big. One of the first differences you may notice is that you aren't sitting in class or participating in labs for as long each day. In fact, in some programs, you may only be attending a few hours of class each week. That's because you'll need lots of time to work on major assignments and prepare for tests. Time management is key, and there are supports on campus to help you learn how to manage your time and organize your work-load. Take some time in your first semester to try out different techniques and see what works for you. If you're still having trouble, book an appointment with the Student Success Centre and talk to an advisor. If you are an international student, you can also make a visit to the International Student Services office.

Another major difference from high school to university is your level of independence. In high school, you may have had some really nice teachers who would remind you of deadlines and tests. In university, not all professors will do that. The expectation is that you are in charge of your own education, which includes showing up to class on time, asking questions, studying for tests, and handing in assignments by their due-dates.

VIDEO HERE

University students are required to act ethically and with integrity in academic matters, as well as demonstrate behaviours that support the university's academic values. Students are responsible for being aware of and demonstrating behaviour that is honest and ethical in their academic work. Before classes begin, make sure to become familiar with Lakehead University's Student Code of Conduct. Here is a link to a summary of the Student Code of Conduct. View the entire Code of Conduct at lakeheadu.ca/studentconduct.

As a university student, you are also expected to maintain a level of professionalism. Treating your classmates and professors with respect is an absolute must. This includes showing up to class on time, taking ownership for your actions and words, and communicating properly with your professors. When emailing a professor with a question, be sure to include the course-code for your class in the subject line of the email. (E.g. "GEOG 1111-YA, Student Question")

Lakehead offers many supports to students on campus and online. Below is a detailed list of some of the many supports available to every Lakehead student.

Student Success Centre

The Student Success Centre has many programs and support services in place to help you achieve your academic and personal  goals while studying at Lakehead University. We provide academic support through tutoring services, career exploration, co-operative opportunities and leadership development.

Student Central

Whether you are a new student arriving to campus for the first time, getting ready to graduate or anything in between, Student Central provides you with a more convenient way to conduct your business and access support in one, central location. Here you will be able to access everything you need - from enrolling at Lakehead through to course registration, financial support, academic advising and so much more.

Student Accessibility Services

Student Accessibility Services provides academic support for all Lakehead students with academic accommodations for disabilities as well as medical conditions. To aid students in the transition process, we have prepared a Transition Planner. The Planner includes some common differences between high school and University, an outline of the information we require, and most importantly, contact information to connect with SAS. Through SAS, you will encounter eager and supportive staff who will work with you to make your time at Lakehead University a truly positive and valuable experience.

Lakehead University Student Union (LUSU)

The Lakehead University Student Union (LUSU) represents all students studying at Lakehead University. We are over 8,000 strong, uniting undergraduate and graduate, full- and part-time, and domestic and international students across Lakehead’s two campuses in Thunder Bay and Orillia. LUSU’s mandate is to ensure that all students can pursue academic excellence as well as personal and social growth at Lakehead, free from barriers related to income, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, family status, or ability. Through LUSU, students access a wide variety of services, supports, job and volunteer opportunities, and social life like clubs and events.

Gender Equity Centre

The GEC is a feminist action centre that provides peer support, education and advocacy and promotes progressive changes to attitudes and policies on campus. It deals with diverse issues including gender equality, sex-positive education, and sexual violence.

Food Bank

The Food Bank provides free, healthy grocery options to students in financial need. The Food Bank also educates about a variety of food-related issues like food insecurity and sustainable food production practices, and skills like gardening and cooking.

Pride Central

Pride Central provides a safe space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, two-spirited, queer, intersex, and allies (LGBTTQIA) students. It is open to all Lakehead University students (and community) with a focus on ending discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.

Indigenous Initiatives

At Lakehead, we are proud to offer a culturally supportive environment to all Indigenous students who self-identify as First Nation, Inuit, and Métis. Our aim is to help Indigenous students to achieve success in their academic goals through a variety of support services. As well, we offer a continual welcome to all students, staff, and faculty who wish to learn more about Indigenous culture, traditions, and teachings. Visit Indigenous Initiatives

Security

Lakehead University Security Service provides a professional, uniformed, security service that is licensed under the Ontario Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005. (SO 2005, c 34).  Each member of our team is a licensed security guard in the Province of Ontario and is identified by a regimental number worn on the outside of their uniform. Members of our courteous and professional team are on duty 24-hours a day, seven days a week, every day of the year.

Lakehead University International

Lakehead University International is committed to helping with your transition to your new life in Canada! International Student Services is dedicated to supporting your exceptional academic and social experience by providing engaging events and activities, advocacy, and focused support that will help you get involved in the community and plan for your future career goals and success. Our International Center provides a culturally supportive environment with International Student Advisors prepared to provide you personalized one-on-one guidance in all the matters specific to you as an international student. LUI, We're here for you!

Student Health and Wellness

Keeping a healthy body and mind is important while you are at university. At the Thunder Bay Campus, we have a team of registered nurses, doctors and counsellors available for you to have your health needs addressed right on campus. The Orillia Campus provides you with access to a Wellness Centre that includes a Naturopathic Doctor, counselling services and resources on health and wellness services in Orillia. View a list of services offered by Student Health and Wellness

Ombudsperson

This is an impartial, independent and confidential support service provided to ensure you receive fair and equitable treatment throughout your time at Lakehead. The Ombudsperson deals with a variety of issues and complaints and provides information for both academic and non-academic concerns.

Academic and Non-Academic Codes of Conduct 

All students are required to abide by the Academic and Non-Academic Codes of Conduct. Make sure you are familiar with the expectations of university academics before you begin your classes. Ask your instructors for clarification and help with understanding concepts like academic integrity and plagiarism. If you are accused of breaching of the Academic Code of Conduct, LUSU, the Ombudsperson, the Office of Human Rights & Equity, Lakehead University International and the Manager of Student Conduct & Case Management are all here to support you.

If you or someone you know, has been negatively affected by behaviour that violates the Non-Academic Code, as a member of the Lakehead community you have the right to file a complaint. Contact the Manager of Student Conduct & Case Management for support.

It is crucial to take good care of your emotional and physical health while attending university. Thankfully, there are a number of incredible resources available to students at Lakehead, to help them be healthy and happy! A few are listed below.

• LUSU Health & Dental Plan, so you can access important medical services without a financial burden.
• • International Student Health Insurance, so you can access information about UHIP and GuardMe, your health insurance for international, exchange and English Language Program students.
• Student Health & Wellness, so you have support to maintain your wellbeing. Taking care of your mental well-being is just as important as eating healthy and getting exercise.
• Lakehead Athletics - offers many varsity teams, clubs, and intramural sports that you can join. 
• The Transition Plan for Students with Disabilities is a valuable resource for students with disabilities or medical conditions, who are departing from their familiar supports at home.
• The Office of Human Rights and Equity ensures that Lakehead University is an inclusive and accommodating space that champions diversity. Furthermore, it works to prevent and respond to discrimination, harassment and sexual violence.

Lakehead University residence strives to provide students with a clean and safe home, where academic success and personal growth are promoted. It is our goal to provide a community and environment that is rich and diverse. Lakehead University Residence provides a wide range of opportunities that are social, educational and recreational. 

In Orillia, we provide students social opportunities such as off-site excursions (Pumpkinferno and bowling), game nights, movie nights and holiday activities (snow globe and painting classes) as well as other activities such as snow tubing.  

Before packing for your adventure to University, take a good look around the house to think of what things you'll need during your stay in Residence. Your Residence room will be your home away from home so you will want to surround yourself with things that make you feel comfy and cozy. Here are some suggestions:

• An enthusiastic, friendly and welcoming personality!

• Bed Linens (the bed in your room is a double size)

• Blanket & PillowsBathrobe

• Hair Dryer

• Towels Laundry Bag/Basket

• Laundry Soap/Fabric Softener

• Waterproof winter boots, winter coat, hat, scarf and mitts, long johns and ski pants

• Formal Attire (there will be two Formal Dinner Events - one each in Fall Term and Winter Term)

• Hangers Sewing Kit Computer and printer (all rooms have Wi-Fi)

• Headphones Mug/Glass/Plate/Eating Utensils (for between-meal snacks)

• Surge Protector/Power Bar

• Universal Electrical Adapter (if travelling from abroad)

• Television or Gaming System

• Binders

• Calculator Paper and notepaper 

• Pens, Pencils, Scissors, Stapler

• Camera

• Games

• Health Card and Health Insurance Information

• Pictures of family and friends (while it's good to meet new friends, it's also good not to forget old ones)

• Sports Equipment (skates, skis, frisbee discs, ball glove, racquets, bike, etc.)

• University Documents (keep all receipts and forms handy) 

And just to be sure, here is a list of what NOT to bring to university: 

• Air Conditioners - all rooms are air-conditioned

• Candles - prohibited. This is for your protection. Fires can and do happen, even while taking the most care.

• Ceiling Fans/ Dish Washers - Residence does not allow such modification to any residence facility.

• Furniture - As all rooms are fully furnished, additional furniture is not permitted.

• Heaters - For safety reasons, space heaters are not allowed in any residence.

• Halogen Lamps - Due to the intense heat emitted, it is not worth the risk.

• Hot Tubs - For the wellbeing of all Residence students, hot tubs are not permitted to be used on Residence property.

• Illegal Drugs - Lakehead University Residence has a zero-tolerance on possession and use of illegal drugs in Residence.

• Microwave Ovens - A microwave and toaster oven is available on each floor for shared use.

• Nails/Tacks/Duct Tape - If it can't be hung up with white sticky tack then leave it at home.

• All Pets Except Fish - Snakes, amphibians and reptiles are not permitted. All fish must fit into an appropriate container that is thirty (30) litres in volume or less.  Special consideration will be made for students requiring Emotional Support animals or assistance animals.

• Satellite Dishes - Cable access is already provided for you.

• Washing/Drying Machines - These are already provided.

• Weapons - Firearms and any other weapon(s) or item(s) that are created/intended to cause harm, or could be seen as intimidating, are strictly prohibited. 

Check out these pages on Facebook to stay up to date on campus happenings!

• Lakehead Orillia Student Affairs
• Orillia Thunderwolves Athletics
• Lakehead International Orillia
• Lakehead Orillia Indigenous Initiatives
• Lakehead University Orillia Residence
• Lakehead University Used Textbooks
• Lakehead University Student Union (LUSU)
• Lakehead University Office of Sustainability

You may not know what to expect in your first year at university, and that is okay. What is important though, is that you identify some of your hopes so that you can get the most out of your experience. One excellent way of ensuring academic and personal success is by setting SMART goals. Try using the following format to set a few goals for yourself at the beginning of the new semester. This can be a great way to track your progress and keep your eye on the prize!

The Student Success Centre has lots of resources to help you excel in your academics. Access them by visiting our resource library.

• Specific: The goal is direct, detailed, and meaningful. 
• Measureable: You will be able to track your progress or success.
• Attainable: The goal is realistic, and you have the ability to attain it. 
• Relevant: The goal aligns with your overall objectives and personal values.
• Time-bound: The goal has a deadline.

Your first week on campus will be fun and busy! You'll meet other students and staff, and participate in great orientation activities (specific details about your orientation will be provided to you before you arrive). You will also get to buy school supplies, and orient yourself to the layout of campus.

Lakehead University's Bookstore has all the supplies you need to succeed in your first semester, like textbooks, paper, pens, lab materials, art supplies, and cozy hoodies to make you feel at home. Come to the bookstore with a list of your required textbooks (or look them up on a bookstore computer), and staff members will be pleased to help you find them.

We are so lucky at Lakehead University to have such small campuses. You'll know your way around in no time! Your orientation activities will help familiarize you with the layout of campus, but it is still a good idea to give yourself lots of time to find your classes during the first couple of weeks. Take a virtual tour before your arrival to get a head start.

Lakehead Orillia

All full-time Lakehead students receive the U-Pass, which grants unlimited access to city transit services - take the bus anywhere, anytime!

Below is a list of 10 great spots in Orillia accessible by bus from campus. Be sure to check them out and get to know your new home!

1. Mariposa Market - 109 Mississaga Street East Orillia, Ontario L3V 1V6 - Mariposa Market is a classic market with a cafe, sandwich & salads, bake shop and a season's shop that sells local items.
2. Scout Valley Loop Trail - Old Barrie Rd E, Orillia, ON L0K 2G0 - Scout Valley Loop Trail is a beautiful outdoor space to connect with nature and stretch your legs!
3. Orillia Waterfront Pathway - Start at the end of Mississaga street and head north along the Orillia Waterfront Pathway, past the Marina, playground and bandstand. In the summer, students can rent kayaks and stand up paddle boards as well as go for a dip, grab snacks and treats at French's and ice cream from local vendors.
4. YMCA - 300 Peter Street North. Students receive a free YMCA membership; pick up begins when classes are in session
5. Tudhope park - On Lake Couchiching, Tudhope Park has both baseball and slo-pitch, as well as the Moose Beach swimming area. It is also home to the Mariposa Folk Festival.
6. Westridge Plaza and Walmart Superstore - This is where you can access many stores and restaurants, such as Walmart, Food Basics, Value Village, Best Buy, Staples, Booster Juice, Tim Hortons, Montanas, and more!
7. Mark IV Brothers - 187 Nottawasaga St, Orillia, ON L3V 3K2 - Be sure to check out this neat cafe/variety store!
8. Orillia Farmers Market - 36 Mississaga St W, Orillia, ON L3V 3A6 (Orillia Public Library) - Visit the Orillia Farmers Market, Open 8:00am - 12:30 pm on Saturdays.
9. Galaxy Cinemas - Go to Galaxy Cinemas in Orillia to catch a flick with friends!
10. Leacock Museum National Historic Site - 50 Museum Dr, Orillia, ON L3V 7T9, Canada, Orillia, Ontario L3V 6K5 Canada - Learn about unique Orillia history, or attend one of the many events and shows hosted by the museum throughout the year. Open Monday-Friday!

Congratulations! This marks the end of your online orientation. Thank you for taking the time to become familiar with some of Lakehead's important policies and student supports. We hope this has helped you feel prepared and excited - we can't wait to see you!

Finally, don't forget to register for Welcome Week by clicking any of the "Sign Up Now!" buttons on this page!