Ridgeback Report

Academic support

• Join the Student Learning Centre for tips and suggestions on utilizing generative AI tools as possible aides for academic writing. This series of workshops will aim to equip students with the tools and knowledge to consider generative AI usage responsibly and critically. Learn more and register.
  
  
• We offer services throughout the winter semester, including peer tutoring, math and writing support. You can book an appointment or visit our website for more information.

Career readiness

• Join the Region of Durham on Monday, March 17 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Campus Recreations and Wellness Centre for their Film and Television Industry Career Fair. Attend to meet industry professionals and participate in a Q&A, visit interactive displays, and experience what it's like behind the scenes. Registration is required.
  
  
• If you’re looking for summer employment, the Career Centre is hosting the Summer Job Fair on Thursday, March 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Shawenjigewning Hall, Atrium. Get the chance to meet and connect with employers and apply for jobs on-the-spot! Learn more.
  
  
• Our Employment Readiness Program is running Wednesdays until March 26. Join us for a series of workshops designed to teach practical job readiness skills and skills for navigating the workplace with success. Register today.
  
  
• Discover your unique career direction through our engaging three-part Creative Connection workshop series. Join us Thursdays from March 6 to 27 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. in Shawenjigewining Hall, Room 246. Learn more and register.
  
  
• Join Wavemakers–a free virtual career-building program that helps you gain skills, expand your network and boost your resume. You’ll have the chance to win a $1500 scholarship to support your studies. Apply today. 
  

• Check out SparkPath–a free career tool and app where you can complete challenge cards to discover a range of potential careers.

Get involved

• The U-Pass agreement is up for renewal. You will be asked to vote March 12 to 14 during the OTSU Elections if you support renewing the agreement with Durham Region Transit. Learn more at drt-upass.ca.
  
  
• After two dynamic challenge events with Magna International and Toyota Canada, we're bringing together students, industry experts and innovators for the Final Symposium on Monday, March 17 from 4:30 to 8 p.m. at ACE. Learn more and register.
   
• The Pangaea Cultural Pop-up is happening March 30 to April 2. Check out our events calendar for more!
  
  
• Our Equity book club is back for the winter semester! Join us as we read How to Pronounce Knife by Souvankham Thammavongs–a series of short stories that spotlight characters who navigate the complexities of living between cultures and values. Register today.
  
  
• Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a global initiative that challenges stereotypes and celebrates the unique ways we think, learn, and experience the world. Visit Student Accessibility Services in the Shawenjigewining Hall and Charles Hall atriums during the week of March 17 to 23 to learn more about neurodiversity and contribute to Ontario Tech’s Neurodiversity Canvas — a collaborative art piece highlighting the diversity of minds in our community. 
  
  
• Want to boost your resume, gain real project experience and make a lasting impact on the Ontario Tech community? The Culture Awareness Challenge gives you the chance to pitch an initiative that promotes inclusivity, awareness and positive change. Winners will receive up to $1000 in funding to implement their idea. Learn more.
  
  
• Want to help reduce textbook costs and win fabulous prizes? Join the Open Education Challenge from March 3 to 31! Visit our website to learn more and join the challenge. Let’s work together to make education more open and accessible to all!

Health and wellness

• The third annual Campus Clash is coming up on Thursday, March 20 in gyms 2, 3 and 4. Come cheer on the Ridgebacks and have a chance to win some great prizes. Visit goridgebacks.com for more information.
  
  
• Are you feeling sad, isolated or unmotivated? You are not alone. Register for our online Depression Support Group running Thursday’s from February 6 to March 20 from 2 to 3 p.m. to connect with other students who share these struggles and to learn coping strategies for improving your mood and quality of life.
  
  
• Join us for educational and interactive nutrition seminars with Sylvia Emmorey throughout the month of March. By attending, you’ll receive a Ridgebacks lanyard and be entered into a draw for a Campus Recreation shaker bottle after every session. Register now!
   
• Feeling overwhelmed with post-secondary life? Our Better Together Series is now offering Creative Calm, a series of four hands-on workshops designed to help you manage stress through playful art and mindfulness! Learn more and register.
   
  

• The One meal at a time support group is running virtual sessions this semester. Visit the website to learn more and register.

Money matters

Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP)

• If you are an OSAP student planning to take full-time classes in the spring/summer term(s) (three classes in total), you must complete an OSAP Extension Form once officially registered for your classes. Information and form will be available on MyOntarioTech beginning of April. Do not apply through the OSAP website.

Student awards

• The Summer University Works application is now available for full-time undergraduate students. 

  • Please note: The International University Works program is highly competitive, with many applicants and a limited number of positions. Therefore, acceptance into the program is not guaranteed. In the event the maximum number of applicants has been reached, the application may close before the deadline. 

  • To apply, please visit MyOntarioTech to apply. 

• TELUS Student Bursary applications are now open!

  • Applications will be accepted until Wednesday, March 19 or until they receive a maximum of 700 applications. TELUS Student Bursary invites all students who are experiencing financial need and who are committed to making a difference in their communities to apply. Learn more.

In case you missed it

• Visit our Food Services website for a list of our on campus resturants and cafes.