myCommunity
Message From the President
Greetings. Boozhou. Bonjour.
It is my pleasure to extend a warm welcome to each one of you on behalf of the entire University community as you begin your academic journey at Lakehead.
You have reached a significant milestone in your lives and we are very proud that you have decided to join other students, faculty, and staff from all over the world who have formed a community dedicated to high quality academic programming, excellence in research, scholarly and creative work, and a unique learning experience. Whether you are studying online or on-campus, we are very excited for you to experience this first-hand.
Thank you for choosing Lakehead University as your next step in realizing your unique potential and success. The resources you’ll find in this online orientation will introduce you to the numerous opportunities and supports available to you as a Lakehead student. Be sure to take a look at each section as you prepare for a successful and enjoyable year ahead.
We are thrilled that you have joined our community and look forward to the upcoming year.
Sincerely,
Moira McPherson,
Ph.D. President & Vice-Chancellor
Lakehead Community
Where is Lakehead situated? |
Land AcknowledgementLakehead University respectfully acknowledges its campuses are located on the traditional lands of Indigenous peoples. Lakehead Thunder Bay is located on the traditional lands of the Fort William First Nation, Signatory to the Robinson Superior Treaty of 1850. Lakehead Orillia is located on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg. The Anishinaabeg include the Objibwe, Odawa, and Pottawatomi nations, collectively known as the Three Fires Fires Confederacy. Connections to RegionsAs a Lakehead University student it is important to understand the close connections that both campuses foster within the regions in which we are located, whether it be in Thunder Bay or Orillia.
Nestled between two bodies of freshwater, Lakehead Orillia will redefine your typical Central Ontario experience. As a student here, you will immerse yourself in the diverse communities and rural landscapes, learning the importance of connecting to the City and Simcoe County beyond the classroom. Lakehead Orillia will offer you a truly unique cultural experience as it is located near the Chippewas of Rama First Nation and hosts a variety of festivals for you to be involved in. Moreover, Lakehead Orillia offers you an abundance of opportunities within the community in the Arts, whether it be visiting the Orillia Opera House or the Orillia Museum of Art & History, you are sure to take your learning experience to the next level! |
What are the core beliefs that Lakehead is grounded in? |
Belief StatementsWe believe you make Lakehead University different. We believe that you want an innovative comprehensive university where they have the highest chance of success. We believe that you have the passion and drive to realize your dream and succeed. We believe that you want the intellectual freedom to pursue the unconventional. We believe in the diversity that comes from your many cultures and many nations. We believe that you are passionate about both your own individuality and your communities. We believe in you. |
What university lingo do I need to know? |
Glossary of University LingoUnderstanding university language may seem like an overwhelming task...we are here to help! Lakehead University-Specific LingoHere are some important terms that you should familiarize yourself before beginning at Lakehead ASZ - Academic Support Zone. General University LingoGeneral university language is important to know when discussing academics and opportunities with professors and advisors Academic advisor - An advisor at Student Central can help you with selecting your courses, major and offering support and referrals in cases of academic difficulty. |
Why are the institutional values important to me? |
Exceptional. UnconventionalFiguring out how to align with our institutional values is very important as a new member of the University community At Lakehead University, we cherish the unusual and the unexpected. You are here, seeking out an education at Lakehead, because you are eager for adventure, motivated by your own vision of success, and uninfluenced by your peers. We realize that you are unique and we value that, but you are also part of a community of people who share these same attributes. That’s what makes us "Exceptional. Unconventional." In order for us to achieve our mission as a University and stay true to who we are, Lakehead has some clearly defined institutional values. As a new Lakehead student, it is important to know what these values are, so you can align yourself with them as you become part of this wonderful community. Institutional ValuesCommitment, Honesty, Respect, Acceptance, Effort, Scholarship, Innovation, Independence, Individuality & Community In order for us to achieve our mission as a University, Lakehead has some clearly defined institutional values. As a new Lakehead student, it is important to know what these values are, so you can align yourself with them as you become part of this wonderful community. When you learn how to live these out values while studying here at Lakehead and put them into practice in your everyday life, it makes our community better for everyone and helps us stay true to who we are. |
How does Lakehead support diversity and inclusion? |
Equity Diversity and Inclusion ActionsLakehead University has made a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (“EDI”) under the pillar of Social Responsibility in its Strategic Plan (2018-2023) and Academic Plan (2019-2024). The overall goal of the Action Plan is to promote an environment that is equitable and inclusive for all students, including students from under-represented groups (“URGs”) such as Indigenous students, racialized students, students with disabilities, and students from sexual and gender minorities. Over the next five years, Lakehead will improve human rights-related policies and practices, enhance scholarship and work opportunities, promote EDI in teaching and research, and incorporate EDI in all aspects of student life, such as residence, food services, and safe spaces. |
What is expected of me as a Lakehead community member? |
Expectations of Community MembersBeing a part of the Lakehead community means that you will abide by Lakehead policies, procedures and provincial and federal legislation, such as the Student Code of Conduct and the Ontario Human Rights Code We expect all of our students to: 1) Ensure they act and communicate with dignity and respect towards everyone
Student Code of Conduct - Your responsibilitiesAcademic Integrity 1) Ensuring any academic work you submit is your own original work, 1) Upholding the diversity of our community by valuing equity and respect for others, If you need help understanding these expectations, are being investigated for violating the Code or would like to file a complaint under the Non-Academic Code, contact the Manager, Student Conduct & Case Management at studentconduct@lakeheadu.ca Ontario Human Rights CodeHuman Rights and Discrimination: |
What customs and traditions can I expect? |
Lakehead ProudNow that you're a member of the Lakehead community, here are some of the symbols that help bring us together. You can wear our colours and tout our motto with a shared sense of pride! School ColoursOur school colours at Lakehead University are royal blue and gold. Representative of our students, staff and faculty, the gold represents ambition and royal blue represents strength and loyalty. The Lakehead MottoAd augusta per angusta Achievement through effort. The Lakehead LogoYou have probably noticed the Lakehead logo - but where did it come from and what does it mean to you? The Lakehead logo was designed based on our Coat-of-Arms. The Coat-of-Arms represents all the aspects of university life that Lakehead will provide you! The fire and candles are symbols of enlightenment. The books symbolize wisdom and knowledge, something you will gain much of here at Lakehead University. The helmet is a symbol of bravery, as you are SO brave to take on the task of beginning postsecondary education. Lastly, the canoe, pine tree, and water symbolize the breathtaking landscape you will experience while at our Lakehead campuses. The Lakehead Thunderwolves
You will spot all our Thunderwolf athletes training on any given day or sweating on game day. Be sure to show your support and cheer them on! WolfieLakehead's Mascot We would like to introduce you to our second most valued member of the Lakehead community (besides you), Wolfie! It’s likely you'll bump into Wolfie a few times during your university career - he'll be sure to put a smile on your face and make you proud to be a Thunderwolf. Don't forget to give Wolfie a high five when you see him at a Saturday night Thunderwolves hockey game or hanging out with students around campus. Rituals and CeremoniesIn order to feel a true sense of community here at Lakehead, attend our most anticipated events. ProcessionCelebrate your arrival at Lakehead!
BSc Nursing Pinning CeremonyA special tradition within the Lakehead School of Nursing to celebrate and honour our graduates. This tradition dates back to 1975, the first Pinning Ceremony at Lakehead University. For our hard-working students, the pinning ceremony signifies the completion of the BScN degree. Additionally, this highly anticipated event among the Nursing students is a nice way to welcome our Lakehead students to the nursing profession. The Iron Ring CeremonyThe Iron Ring Ceremony is dedicated to our graduates of engineering. Our Bachelor of Engineering graduates obtain their ring during the "Ritual of the Calling of an Engineer". During this, our graduates individually devote themselves to high standards of integrity that the profession has established. The Iron Ring itself reminds our graduates that they must carefully make decisions and have consideration for others safety. The Silver Ring CeremonyThe Silver Ring Ceremony is conducted in recognition of our Honours Bachelor of Science in Forestry. The ceremony began in 1975, our first graduating class. The ceremony welcomes our graduates to the profession of forestry and honours their hard work and dedication. As well, it symbolizes their becoming of 'The Practitioners of the Forest'. ConvocationHere at Lakehead we want to celebrate all that you achieve during your time here.
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Getting Involved
How do I meet people before I begin school? |
Building ConnectionHere are some important social media channels to follow where you will be able to interact with other new students.
Lakehead University Used Textbooks Join the Discussion!We have online discussion forums hosted by current students where you can ask questions and connect with other new students from your faculty. Log into mycourselink.lakeheadu.ca and open the course named "Lakehead University Orientation" to take part in the discussion! Download the App!You can also connect with other students through our Lakehead Success App. To download the App from the app store or google play, search for "Lakehead Success." |
How do I meet people after I begin school? |
Building ConnectionWe have loads of ways for you to get involved in student life and connect with other students at Lakehead! You can join a LUSU club, participate in a leadership program, join a study group, become an orientation leader, take part in Campus Rec activities and so much more! Watch your Lakehead email and social media for opportunities to connect! Ways to get Involved with your Student UnionGet involved in your union and your student community! LUSU represents and is guided by you, the students of Lakehead. You can bring issues to LUSU and ask for our support anytime. Every Lakehead student has the right to vote in elections and referenda, to suggest new campaigns or actions, and to run for executive or the board of directors! LUSU also has different job opportunities for LU students and all are welcome to volunteer with our outreach centres. Connecting With Your Lakehead Family VirtuallyIt is important that as a student you are given the chance to make unforgettable connections and meet new friends as you navigate through your first year of university. Doing this virtually may bring up many worries, however, Lakehead has you covered. 1. Social media platforms. 2. D2L Discussion posts. 3. Virtual events. |
What clubs and activities are available? |
LUSU OpportunitiesLUSU Clubs & ActivitiesClubs are the cornerstone of student life at Lakehead! Whether you're interested in sports, movies, academics, video games, politics, or more, a club will help you broaden your ways of thinking and doing, and give you experience leading and collaborating with an executive team. Anyone can join almost any club on campus, and it takes only a bit of effort to start one yourself! By running or joining a club, you're not only pursuing your interests and goals, but you're helping build and maintain an institution that will live on long after your time at Lakehead University. LUSU Campaigns and AdvocacyEvery year, Lakehead students take action to make our community a better, more just and sustainable place. When we stand together, we get results: fighting for students' rights on campus, protecting our environment, combatting racism and sexual violence, and more! Academic Societies and ClubsMeet people in your program through academically based clubs and societies! Student societies are another great way to get involved. These societies are typically tied to your academic program. For instance, the Nursing Society or Engineering Student Society are are great ways to meet students from your program, plan events and socials and contribute towards great causes. Check out your program website to learn what is available to you! |
How can I get involved in a team? |
Athletics and RecreationLakehead Athletics offers a plethora of ways to become a Thunderwolf from our many varsity teams, club sports, campus rec, to our services and supports in both Thunder Bay or Orillia.
Visit our corresponding websites for more details on specific teams, sports, and recreation available! Lakehead Athletics - Thunder Bay & Orillia. Follow Lakehead Athletics on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook (all links posted on each campus website) Contact us Thunder Bay & Orillia |
Lakehead Supports and Services
Who are my Lakehead supports? |
Student Referral GuideThunder Bay Guide Who do I ask for help?Academic SuccessStudent Accessibility Services (SAS) Finances & Academic Success
Student accounts can help you with account details, paying fees (Domestic or international), Sponsorship Tax Receipts, University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP), and Graduate Student Funding. Wellness & RecreationStudent Health and Wellness (SHW) Keeping a healthy body and mind is important while you are at university. At Student Health and Wellness we provide medical, counselling, and health promotion services. 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. Thunder Bay campus food services provide a wide variety of dining opportunities on-campus including the Main Cafeteria, Residence Cafeteria, Paterson Library Coffee Kiosk, and Dan’s Diner and Nick’s Garage in the Residences. Other Franchise opportunities included are PizzaPizza, Subway, Starbucks, Persian Man and Rose-N- Crantz Coffee. Each of these locations offer a variety of menu options that are sure to please every palate. Athletics Hey Thunderwolves, your university athletics has plenty of athletic and recreational programming, and much more. Student LifeIndigenous Student Services Centre 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 the Indigenous Student Services Centre. 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, Students playing outside every day of the year. Lakehead University International (LUI) 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! 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. 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. Office of Human Rights and Equity The Office of Human Rights and Equity aims to realize the rights of all students, faculty, staff and visitors of Lakehead University through human rights protection, promotion and implementation. The Office ensures that Lakehead University is a human rights compliant, inclusive and accommodating space that champions diversity. Furthermore, it works to prevent and respond to discrimination, harassment and sexual violence. 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. 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. While living in Lakehead Residence & housing you will enjoy the proximity to classes and have easy access to faculty, staff resources and other campus services. You don't have to worry about cooking your own food (when on a meal plan), doing the dishes or traveling far to class, and will have more energy to concentrate on your studies. Lakehead University Student Union (LUSU) The Lakehead University Student Union (LUSU) is your student union which represents all students studying at Lakehead University. Through LUSU, students access a wide variety of services, supports, job and volunteer opportunities, and social life like clubs and events. The student union advocates for students’ interests within Lakehead University and the community, including municipal government. In all emergency situations dial 8-911 from any university phone or 807-343-8911 from cell phones. Lakehead University operates its own security services registered under the Private Security and Investigative Services Act. Guards are uniformed and individually licensed. We are available 24/7/365. Security is responsible for parking, safe walk program, Keep In Touch Program, and the Lakehead University mobile Safety App. Connect with the university Help Desk for assistance with your email accounts, working in the computers laps, printing, and software issues. |
Your student union, Lakehead University Student Union (LUSU)
Who is LUSU and how do they support me? |
LUSU Mandate![]() LUSU’s mandate is to represent our members’ interests and ensure everyone has a fair and equitable university experience. If you feel you've been treated unjustly, whether that be an unfair grade, violation of the student code of conduct, denied academic accommodations, accused of misconduct, or feel your rights haven’t been respected, we are here to fight for you! Student InitiativeLUSU supports and encourages students to actively participate and fight for the issues deemed important to the student body. Student organizations have continually spearheaded change not only within each university, but also within the community. We intend to uphold that tradition ‘for You’. Call for Social ActionNow that you're part of a student union, LUSU enables you to connect with students across Canada through their student unions. As members of the Canadian Federation of Students (CFS), LUSU, and students unions, are part of an organization that fights for students rights and lobbies both the federal and provincial governments on your behalf. |
Communication Channels
What is the official way Lakehead will communicate with me? |
Lakehead University EmailThe official means of communication by the University is through your Lakehead University email account. All official correspondence will be sent here. It is also the email where your instructors may send you information about your courses. Be sure to check it often! |
How do I keep in contact with everything "Lakehead"? |
Stay connected with what is happeningStudent LifeHere are some social media channels to keep in the loop of what is happening on your campus. Thunder Bay: @LakeheadLife (Facebook) @LakeheadLife (Instagram) @LakeheadLife (Twitter) Orillia: lakeheadosa (Facebook) lakeheadosa (Instagram) lakeheadosa (Twitter) Lakehead International Student Life (Facebook) Lakehead International Life (Instagram) LU Aboriginal Initiatives Orillia luor_ai (Instagram) LUORAI (Facebook) LUOR_AI (Twitter) Graduate Studies lakeheadgraduatestudies (Instagram) LakeheadGradStudies (Facebook) LakeheadGradStudies (Twitter)
Announcements in myInfoRelevant announcements are shared in myInfo to help keep you on track with deadlines and supports. Take a look here! Lakehead Success AppYou can keep up with what is happening through the Lakehead Success App! To download the App from the app store or google play, search for "Lakehead Success." Online Event CalendarCheck our Lakehead event calendar with up to date event information here! |
Involving Family Members and Supports
How can my family members or supports be a part of my journey? |
We recognize this is a big step -- for all of you -- and we want to provide your community of supporters with the information they need to make it easier on both of you! Please direct your supporters to visit this link . They can sign up for our mailing list to receive news about Lakehead University, information on upcoming campus events, and access to a digital toolkit with tips and tricks on how to support you. |
What do all family members or supports need to know about supporting a first year student? |
Perspectives from a studentWe asked a first year student what advice would you give to family members and other supporters getting ready to support their student. Here's the top 8 "rules" they offered to help guide you on your way: 1. Don't ask if you are homesick. |
How can my family members or supports best help me? |
10 tips to helping your student succeedThere are many ways for your family members and other supporters to assist you with your transition to university studies. Check out the 10 tips to succeed in the academic world. From encouraging your student to attend class regularly to seeking help before problems escalate, this guide will help your family better support you right from the start. |