Tips For New Students

Before classes begin in the new year:

  • get your YUcard photo taken early to avoid lineups
  • once you have your YUcard, go online or to the library and put money on it for photocopying & printing
  • get a library card for the public library if you don't already have one
  • apply for a credit card if possible -- it makes buying books a lot easier
  • when shopping, see if there's a student discount card available and use it!

Transportation:

  • know routes & schedules if taking the bus to school
  • if you sign up for GO Transit's Student ID online before school starts and they'll send it directly to your house
  • YorkU provides cheaper TTC Metropasses
  • figure out in advance what type of pass would work better for you before the first day of class: GO - monthly or 10 rides? TTC - monthly or tokens?

Books & Supplies:

  • check out at the bookstore what books are required for your classes before they start
  • Chapters-Indigo, Amazon and local/independent bookstores also sell books (new and used) that are used as textbooks

Libraries:

  • sign up for an Acadlab account a few days before you need one -- it allows you to sign into any computer at the library
  • YULearn is a great resource that includes eTutoring and help with research

Academic links:

Homesickness

  • Homesickness is a normal feeling and is temporary
  • Take time to adjust to the new surroundings
  • Get involved with other students, classes and activities
  • The sooner one adapts to new surroundings, the less intense feelings of homesickness will be
  • Stay in touch with home, but avoid going home every weekend -- this is especially important during the beginnings of the school year when social groups are forming and on-campus relationships are developing
  • The Counselling & Disability Services (CDS) has counselors available to talk if feelings persist or become detrimental to your day-to-day life. Room 110 BCSS