University of Toronto: student life on campus

An insider’s guide to the best place to study, live music venue and more

University of Toronto campus exterior

(University of Toronto)

The 411

Unofficial school motto:
“The Harvard of Canada”
Best place for a nap:
The stacks in Robarts Library
Best cheap lunch:
Hart House Café
Best hangover breakfast:
Museum Tavern
Best campus food:
Veda Indian food
Best place to live:
CampusOne or Woodsworth College residence
Best bar for hanging out:
Prenup Pub
Best pizza:
Fresca Pizza and Pasta
Best place to study:
University College libraries
Weirdest tradition:
Engineering cannon fire
Best campus event:
Exam Jam
Best giveaway:
During frosh week there are always freebies and snacks being given out
Best live music venue:
Poetry Jazz Café
What surprised me most about the school:
How genuinely nice the professors are
If I could change one thing about the school:
I wish the buildings were closer together. Be prepared to walk!

PROFILE: University of Toronto | Toronto, Ont. | Founded 1827

My experience as a student at the University of Toronto has been filled with ups and downs, but it has undoubtedly been worth it. I am thankful for the kind people who have helped me along the way. My professors are genuinely passionate about their work and students. Students here must be ready to be challenged and have their perspectives changed by professors and students. Being a student here means having to work a little bit harder. At the end of the day, it is worth it to be surrounded by beautiful buildings, brilliant people and a remarkable legacy. Just google the school’s many impressive alumni. U of T is the obvious choice for someone who wants to experience student life but is not interested in studying in a small town. Studying in Toronto allows you to explore amazing food and shops between classes—you can get distracted by all the lunch options. Going here gives you bragging rights among your friends at other Canadian universities, and makes you feel like you are involved in cutting-edge academia.

After Class
U of T is a diverse environment that welcomes students from all walks of life. This is shown in the many different food options, prayer spaces and clubs available to suit anyone’s interests. Through the years of being a student, you will discover what you are genuinely passionate about. If you are looking for a fun way to relax after class or on the weekends, and have a fun outing with friends, check out the plays at Hart House.

Local Vibe
The best part of studying in Toronto is that you will never get bored! Everything is easily accessible by transit, or you can walk through plenty of parks, greenery and past historic buildings. If you have some free time between classes, there are countless fun spots on College, Spadina or Bloor for you to explore. Whether you are looking for food, a bar, cute coffee shops for studying, luxury shopping or local boutiques, you can find everything within a short walk from campus.

More Info
Griddy.org will be a lifesaver when it comes to planning your semester. The Varsity is one of the main student newspapers.