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1. Catch up with a friend over coffee at The Daily Grind
There’s no better space on campus to feel the buzz of student life than the Students’ Union Building. Make time to catch up with friends or classmates and grab a drink from The Daily Grind on the first floor. And you can feel good about sipping on a fair-trade coffee or snacking on a pastry–The Daily Grind is owned and operated by the Students’ Union, which means all income generated is returned right back to you, in the form of Students’ Union services and projects.
2. Find your new favourite study spot at the U of A libraries
A comfortable, reliable space is integral to solid studying. With the libraries reopening on campus, you’ll have a handful of new options to explore. Whether you’re a second-floor of Cameron library kind of student or a Rutherford Reading Room person, there’s bound to be a space for you. Make sure you keep up with the library locations and hours before picking a spot to knock out your next assignment.
3. Get volunteering!
The U of A has many volunteer opportunities to suit all interests and backgrounds. Expand your inter-cultural skill set with opportunities through the University of Alberta International, or enjoy experiential learning in the areas of sport, recreation, tourism, and beyond with Campus and Community Recreation. Love music and community radio? Get in touch with the independent volunteer-powered campus and community radio station, CJSR 88.5FM. Opportunities through the Students’ Union include eliminating hunger on campus at the Campus Food Bank and contributing to campus sustainability at Sustain SU, just to name a few.
4. Sip some tea and make a new friend with Unitea
Sometimes, a good conversation is all you need to feel right at home at the U of A. Get to know members of our vibrant campus community with one-on-one and community tea times offered through Unitea. Though still virtual, a tea time connects you with fellow students and alumni to chat about anything you’d like–your day, something you’re looking forward to, or even that presentation that has you a little worried.
5. Visit the drop-in facilities and activities with Campus and Community Recreation
While it can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the semester, don’t forget to take time out of your busy schedule to take care of your physical health. Explore many of North Campus’ fitness facilities, including the Physical Activity and Wellness Centre, Pavilion, Hanson Fitness and Lifestyle Centre, Wilson Climbing Centre and Clare Drake Arena, as well as numerous gymnasiums and dance studios.
6. Grab a meal at a local campus spot
There’s a restaurant to fit every budget and suit every taste on campus–make a little time in your day to take a trip down to Dewey’s, a campus staple since the late 90s, for a drink to decompress after a long day of classes. Craving some classic bar food with a view? Split an order of wings with some friends at Room at the Top. For a delicious lunch on the go, visit Filistix for delicious streetfood-inspired bowls, or grab a few samosas and a chai from Remedy Cafe in CCIS. For even more options, check out this list put together by Dining Services.
7. Catch a sports game!
The U of A is home to nearly 500 student athletes that make up the 24 Golden Bears and Pandas teams. Catch a basketball, volleyball or hockey home game at either the Saville Community Sports Centre or Clare Drake Arena. To sweeten up the idea even more, U of A students who are assessed the Athletics & Recreation fee are eligible to receive free admission to all regularly scheduled Golden Bears and Pandas events, excluding Canada West and U SPORTS playoffs and special events. This spring, the Golden Bears will be hosting the USPORTS Final 8 basketball tournament right here in Edmonton.
As we all return to campus and navigate our new university environment, remember that you’re not going through all of these changes alone. Resources like the Peer Support Centre, U of A Wellness Supports, and Counselling & Clinical Services are here to support you every step of the way!
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