1. Centennial
Who: Dina Malandrino (child and youth work)
Back to school tip: Get organized and get yourself into the right state of mind, determined to do well.
Student life essential: The parking lot! Right when I finish class, I run to my car and go. I need to study at home.
2. George Brown
Who: Jennifer Tanney (bachelor of science, nursing)
Back to school tip: For mature students it’s hard to balance work and life. It’s important to reach out to your peers and create a community within your program that you can lean on.
Student life essential: A Tim Hortons card.
3. Ryerson
Who: Daniel Drak (fashion communications)
Back to school tip: Prepare awesome stories about your summer adventures.
Student life essential: You only need two things to survive: beer and a smartphone.
4. OCAD U
Who: Raymond Salaber (photography)
Back to school tip: Keep your school supply shopping simple. You don’t need a lot of things, just notebooks, pencils and pens.
Student life essential: My handmade journals. I didn’t take lot of notes in high school, but keeping track of everything is really hard. It’s become part of my practice now.
5. York
Who: Adrian DiStefano (general arts)
Back to school tip: My first week back, I make sure my laptop is up to date with the newest software.
Student life essential: A JanSport backpack I bought at Luggage City.
6. U of T
Who: Margio Rana (art history)
Back to school tip: Plenty of sleep.
Student life essential: I like the blocked-off street beside Sid Smith Hall with the outdoor patio. U of T is so scattered, it’s nice to have a place to meet.
7. Humber
Who: Andrew Racknor (jazz studies)
Back to school tip: Commit yourself. I’ve already started practising a few hours a day.
Student life essential: There’s a coffee place near campus called Tatsu’s. Everyone goes, even the teachers. It’s sort of the spot.
8. Seneca
Who: Samantha Montanaro (recreation and leisure)
Back to school tip: Car-pool with friends. And visit the school ahead of time to make sure you know where you’re going on the first day.
Student life essential: Having a good relationship with all your teachers.
Interviews and photos by Stefania Yarhi