Fall orientation
Events
Arriving on campus
Whether you are walking, wheeling, driving or bussing, UM promotes sustainable transportation options to and on our campuses.
If you are driving to campus, please follow the signage to the B-Lot parking lot (google maps link). Parking will be availble in B-lot for all Welcome to the Herd guests from 3:00 p.m. onwards.
Session schedule
Note: This event has now passed. The following schedule is for reference only.
| Time | Sessions and Locations |
|---|---|
| 3:30 - 4:15 p.m. | Building Healthy Communities (Recreation Services) Eight to be Great (Academic Learning Centre) High School vs. University |
| 4:30 - 5:15 p.m. | Sample Lecture - Humanities (George Buri) Sample Lecture - Social Sciences (Kaitlyn Kuryk) Eight to be Great (Academic Learning Centre) Sample Lecture - Sciences (Carrie Madden) |
| 5:30 - 6:15 p.m. | Sample Lecture - Humanities (George Buri) Sample Lecture - Social Sciences (Kaitlyn Kuryk) Eight to be Great (Academic Learning Centre) High School vs. University Sample Lecture - Sciences (Horace Luong) |
| 6:30 - 7:15 p.m. | Sample Lecture - Humanities (George Buri) Sample Lecture - Social Sciences (Kaitlyn Kuryk) Eight to be Great (Academic Learning Centre) High School vs. University Sample Lecture - Sciences (Horace Luong) |
Information Fair (UMSU University Centre Patio)
Information Fair (UMSU University Centre Patio)
Come visit the following units:
- Academic Learning Centre
- Agricultural and Food Sciences
- Faculty of Arts
- Faculty of Arts Language Centre
- Arts Student Body Council
- Asper School of Business
- Career, Community and Experiential Learning Centre
- Charge Ahead
- First Year Centre
- Indigenous Leadership Programming
- Indigenous Student Centre
- International Centre
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management
- Office of Sustainability
- Price Faculty of Engineering
- Registrar’s Office
- Riddell Faculty of Environment, Earth, and Resources
- Faculty of Science
- Sexual Violence Resource Centre
- St John’s College
- Student Support
- UMFM Campus Radio Inc.
- University of Manitoba Students’ Union
Prep Week
August 27-29, 2024
Prep week provides new students with an opportunity to participate in online prep sessions and to explore the UM Campus one week before Welcome Day and the commencement of the Fall Term.
From August 27 - 29, get some tips for understanding academic reading and writing, take a campus tour, get your student card and Winnipeg Transit UPass before the rush.
Tuesday, August 27 - Virtual sessions via Zoom (see a complete schedule below)
Wednesday, Auguts 28 - Explore campus
Thursday, August 29 - Virtual sessions via Zoom (see a complete schedule below)
Prep Week Session Recordings
Academic Integrity & Artificial Intelligence (AI2)
First Six Weeks: Your Guide to a Successful First Term
Research and Writing in University: What do new students need to know?
Self Care Session
Study Smarter, Not Harder
What I Wish I Knew
Writing 1: Understanding Assignment Instructions
Writing 2: Expressing Your Ideas Clearly
Important information before you join a Prep Week session
Prep Week Virtual sessions will take place on Tuesday, August 27 and Thursday, August 29. All sessions will be provided each day at a different timeslot, to offer more oppotunity for you to take part in the session you want at a time that is most convenient for you.
Note: Research and Writing provided by UM Libraries is only available at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, August 27.
Similarily, Writing 1 and Writing 2 are different topics and sequential. It is recommended to attend both, if you can. Writing 1 is Tuesday, August 27 at 1 p.m. and Writing 2 is Thursday, August 29 at 1 p.m.
You can find a Join this Session button for every session on each day.
- Open the tab for the day of the session you plan to attend.
- Sessions are sorted in a table by time in the left column.
- Navigate to the session you want. You will read the title and description in the right column, with a 'Join this Session' button direcly below the description.
- Click to join the session
You will be prompted to join the session through a browser or your app by Zoom. This may include login prompts.
You will then be ina lobby for that session until the host starts the webinar and you move from the lobby to the webinar space. This may happen minutes before or after the specified start time, so please be patient while the hosts and presenters setup.
The presenters will introduce themselves and inform you of how to interact and ask questions through the session (either Q&A tool or through the chat interface). PLease respect this,
Remember, there are safe work and learning environment policies at the University of Manitoba, this includes digital spaces where sessions are being provided. Be mindful of the questions you ask and statements you make via the Q&A tool or chat.
Tuesday, August 27 - Virtual Sessions via zoom
| Time | Sessions and Descriptions |
|---|---|
| 11 - 12 p.m. | Research and Writing in University: What do new students need to know? Starting university is an exciting time but can lead to a lot of questions about research and writing skills. What is a style guide and how do you know which one your instructor wants you to use? What does it mean when your sources need to be “peer reviewed”? What tips can help you stay on track with your assignments, and who can support you if you need help? For answers to questions like these, join us for a panel discussion with UM librarians and writing tutors. In this session, you will have a chance to learn about key services and resources available through UM Libraries and the Academic Learning Centre and submit your own questions for our experts! |
| 12 - 1 p.m. | Lunch |
| 1 - 2 p.m. | Writing 1: Understanding Assignment Instructions Prepare to write academic essays by learning strategies to understand the language of assignment instructions and break down the writing process into steps. |
| 2 - 3 p.m. | Academic Integrity & Artificial Intelligence (AI2) Learn to make good choices about using generative Artificial Intelligence tools (such as ChatGPT, Grammarly, QuillBot, Google Gemini, DALL·E, etc), while also following UM academic integrity policies. This workshop is aimed at undergraduate students. |
| 3 - 4 p.m. | What I Wish I Knew In this session students will hear from upper year students about their experiences at university, lessons they've learned, and what they wish they knew starting out. They will be sharing from their own personal experiences and offering a peer perspective so that new students can feel better prepared as they enter university |
| 4 - 5 p.m. | First Six Weeks: Your Guide to a Successful First Term Did you know that the first six weeks of university are crucial to your success? Research shows that many university students across the world drop out after six weeks. That’s why we’re sharing our guide to the first six weeks with you. It’s based on research but it’s full of practical tips that you can use right away. This session will give you an understanding of the challenges that students often face and how to prepare yourself to meet those challenges. You can do it! |
| 5 - 6 p.m. | Self Care Session Learn helpful techniques to be a successful student and take care of yourself! |
| 6 - 7 p.m. | Study Smarter, Not Harder Study skills need to be tailored to your specific courses and other commitments. There is no one-size fits all approach. That’s okay, though – we will teach you how to get started and share all of the awesome campus resources that are here to support you. Did you know your tuition fees have already paid for access to trained tutors? You will learn about tutoring services and more in this session. |
Wednesday, August 28 - Prep for uni, explore classes, faculty specific sessions
All new students
- get your UM student ID card from the Pop-up ID Centre
- get your U-Pass (Universal Transit Pass)
- pick up textbooks and grab some UM gear at the UM Bookstore,
- explore campus on your own wiht our Self Guided Tour or take a guided campus tour focused on your class schedule (see details below)
- attend optional faculty info sessions
New Student Fall Class Schedule Tours
Unsure where your classes will be for this Fall? Register for a personalized tour! Select a time between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm, submit a picture of your Fall class schedule, and attend the in-person day of Prep Week on August 28th to have a trained upper-year volunteer show you where your classrooms will be. They will also provide you some information on what to do before the first day of classes, such as getting your ID, UPass, and more!
Please note: While we aim to have all tour routes default to using accessible entrances and pathways, many of the main entrances into buildings on UM’s Fort Garry campus are not accompanied by accessibility ramps, accessibility buttons, etc. We want to support students by utilizing the most efficient route while going from class to class, and as such, this may include using stairs, uneven cobblestone paths, and crossing the streets.
If for any reason you would like to request an entirely accessible route (using elevators, entrances with push button doors only, etc.) please reach out to SEAD@umanitoba.ca so we can plan out the best route for you, so that you can reach your classes.
If you require any other accommodations or if you have any questions, please contact our team at SEAD@umanitoba.ca.
How to find your Fall schedule (PDF)
Students accepted into direct entry Engineering
Check your inboxes for an email with information about prep week sessions for engineering students the afternoon of Wednesday, August 28. You'll need to register in advance.
Thursday, August 29 - Virtual Sessions via zoom
| Time | Sessions and Descriptions |
|---|---|
| 11 - 12 p.m. | Academic Integrity & Artificial Intelligence (AI2) Learn to make good choices about using generative Artificial Intelligence tools (such as ChatGPT, Grammarly, QuillBot, Google Gemini, DALL·E, etc), while also following UM academic integrity policies. This workshop is aimed at undergraduate students. |
| 12 - 1 p.m. | Self Care Session Learn helpful techniques to be a successful student and take care of yourself! |
| 1 - 2 p.m. | Writing 2: Expressing Your Ideas Clearly Get ready to write essays by learning how to bring out your voice in your writing and how to use information from sources to support your ideas. |
| 4 - 5 p.m. | Study Smarter, Not Harder Study skills need to be tailored to your specific courses and other commitments. There is no one-size fits all approach. That’s okay, though – we will teach you how to get started and share all of the awesome campus resources that are here to support you. Did you know your tuition fees have already paid for access to trained tutors? You will learn about tutoring services and more in this session. |
| 5 - 6 p.m. | First Six Weeks: Your Guide to a Successful First Term Did you know that the first six weeks of university are crucial to your success? Research shows that many university students across the world drop out after six weeks. That’s why we’re sharing our guide to the first six weeks with you. It’s based on research but it’s full of practical tips that you can use right away. This session will give you an understanding of the challenges that students often face and how to prepare yourself to meet those challenges. You can do it! |
| 6 - 7 p.m. | What I Wish I Knew In this session students will hear from upper year students about their experiences at university, lessons they've learned, and what they wish they knew starting out. They will be sharing from their own personal experiences and offering a peer perspective so that new students can feel better prepared as they enter university. |
Welcome Day
September 3, 2024
Roam with us on Welcome Day! Meet friends, have fun, and of course…eat free food! Show your Bison Pride with UM gear! Don’t have any? Don’t worry—there’s giveaways for new students!
Find out who to know and where to go for answers to the most common questions new UM students have. We know you’re new to this, so we’ve got your back! You’ll hear from students, advisors and support staff, faculty members and more. We all are dedicated to helping you succeed at UM, so don’t miss out on September 3.
We have some great activities planned, but there will also be plenty of time in the day to connect with friends (old and new!), roam the Fort Garry campus, find your classrooms and have some fun, too!
The University of Manitoba is strongly committed to equity and diversity. Accessibility accommodations and/or disability related supports are available for all events. Contact student_accessibility@umanitoba.ca or call 204-474-7423.
Welcome Day Schedule
10:30 - 11 a.m. | Homeroom sessions
Homerooms will introduce you to The First Year Centre and the amazing people who are here to support you as you get to know your new environment! Find out what to expect and learn some keyways that university is different than high school. You’ll leave having a better idea of what ahead, so that you feel more prepared when you start classes! After Homerooms, we'll make our way to Investors Group Athletic Centre (IGAC) for the Pep Rally!
Be sure to save your QR code for check-in at your homeroom on Welcome day!
Missed homeroom registration? Explore campus and join us in Investors Group Athletic Centre (IGAC) at the Pep Rally - be sure to check-in with an Orientation staff member at the Info Fair to ensure you're eligible for the Welcome Day tuition prize draw!
11:15 a.m. - 12 p.m. | Pep Rally
Get your FREE UM t-shirt, answer some UM trivia, win prizes, and shout at the top of your lungs!
We’ve got a few special guests, some incredible entertainment, and a bunch of awesome prizes just for you! You are now one of the Herd and we can’t wait to hear you roar!
12 - 1 p.m. | Free Lunch on the St. Paul's College Lawn
After the Pep Rally, grab some free food on your way to the Carnival and Info Fair!
12 - 3 p.m. | UM Welcome Carnival (Buller Lawn) & Info Fair (UMSU University Centre Patio)
After the Pep Rally, continue the celebration and spend the afternoon at the Welcome Carnival with friends old and new!
We’ve got:
- Food Trucks
- Inflatable Games
- Free treats and giveaways
- Music
Also be sure to visit the Info Fair where you’ll discover the people and places, you’ll need to know to be successful in your first year. Meet staff and engage with student groups to create connections at your new home away from home!
Need to step away from all the action for a few minutes? The International Centre Global Lounge (541 UMSU University Centre) has been designated as the Welcome Day Quiet Space from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Supplemental Faculty Sessions
Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences Orientation | 9:00 - 10:15 a.m.
Room 172 Agriculture building
Join your fellow Aggies and Foodies as you meet our dedicated team of student advisors and enjoy some coffee and snacks. Featuring a presentation by this year’s FAFS Excellence in Teaching Award Recipient, Kristin Hildahl-Shawn, instructor in the Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences.
Welcome Day for new Faculty of Arts Students | 9:00 - 10:30 a.m.
Room 200 Fletcher Argue building
Only for students enrolled in the Faculty of Arts starting in Fall 2024
Join us to learn more about your new Faculty and what you can expect as a student in the Faculty of Arts. Meet the Dean and fellow Arts students. Hear tips on how to thrive in your first year as a Faculty of Arts student. Find out how you will fare in the Arts trivia challenge led by your Arts Student Body Council (ASBC). Plus, there will be plenty of prizes to be won!
Registration for students currently enrolled in the Faculty of Arts
Welcome to the Faculty of Science Orientation Panel | 9:15 - 10:30 a.m.
Room 204 Armes building
Join us at the University of Manitoba for an exciting event where you can meet knowledgeable faculty members and current Science students, who will guide you through your academic journey. This in-person panel will provide you with valuable insights, tips, and advice to help you navigate through your courses and make the most of your time here at the university. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with experienced students and professors to get a head start on your science education. We look forward to seeing you there!
Students admitted to Faculty of Science only, please register in advance and be sure to follow us on Instagram @umanitobassa.
Campus tours
Tour the whole Fort Garry campus or specific buildings. Find the tour that's right for you, login to UMConnect and register today!
Location: 225 UMSU University Centre
Campus tours available through July and August for new UM students. Registration is through UMConnect, the UM experiential learning, career and event portal for students.
To register:
- Select the tour you want to attend.
- A new tab will open to log you into UMConnect
- Enter your UM Email and password (if you do not have your email address yet, follow the steps on the Claim ID page).
- Click the blue 'Register for this event' button.
Prospective students considering UM can check out these in-person and virtual tour options with Student Recruitment.
Summer skill building
Opportunities offered by different offices and faculties to help you develop specific skills in preparation for your first year at UM.
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Math Boot Camp
This is a free, 3 week math workshop to help students prepare for university level math courses.
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Summer University Advantage
Begin your studies in this first-year Summer Session seminar course ARTS 1110 – Introduction to University.
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Reading to Write
Get feedback on writing, reading and language skills from an ALC tutor during this free three week, online, academic writing and reading program.
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Career Choices
Explore who you are: your interests, values, and favourite subjects and how they relate to the world of work and create a list of occupational ideas just for you.
2024/25 ACADEMIC YEAR SESSION START DATE COMING SOON UM Essentials
UM Essentials, along with other orientation activities, is intended to help you prepare for your studies at the University of Manitoba.
2024/25 course open now!
You’ve accepted your offer, registered for your classes, claimed your UM Net ID and now it’s time to complete UM Essentials! UM Essentials introduces you to the supports and resources available to UM students and through completing UM Essentials, you will:
- Gain a basic understanding of the campus layout and important locations;
- Gain experience with UMLearn, the course management system at UM;
- Learn about the ‘university learning environment’ and know what your professors will expect from you in your courses;
- Learn about key support services available to students and how to access them;
- Find out how to get involved in the UM campus community;
- Understand the rights and responsibilities that you have a student.
- All new students are expected to complete UM Essentials.
You will receive an email to your @myumanitoba.ca email when you have been enrolled in the course. Students enrollment is processed once a week.
After completing UM Essentials you will be able to:
- Explain your rights and responsibilities as a new student joining the University of Manitoba community.
- Locate resources for navigating all areas of life as a new student.
- Identify and implement strategies for effective online learning.
- Summarize expectations for academic work.
- Recognize opportunities for personal skill development and community engagement.
- Demonstrate proficiency in using UM Learn.
All first year students must complete UM Essentials.
Our sponsors
Thank you to all our wonderful sponsors!
Your support helps to welcome new UM students to our campuses and set them up for success as they start their studies at UM.
More important resources for your first year
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More orientation events
Indigenous, International and Graduate student orientations are also available in addition to all Fall Welcome programming.
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Student communities
Whether you are looking for other students who share your interests, are in the same academic program, or are committed to advancing similar causes, this is the place for you to connect!
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Peer mentors
Mentoring programs at UM pair students with peers and professionals who can help you navigate the academic, personal and professional challenges of university and post-university life.
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First Year Planning Guide
This online document has essential information on how to select and register for your courses, and it’s your best resource for planning your first year.
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Get ready to register
Get Ready to Register is designed specifically to help all new students make choices and decisions about target degree programs, course selection and registration in classes.
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New student checklist (PDF)
Follow the new student checklist to start your transition to University.
Questions about any Fall Orientation programming? Connect via email.
Orientation Team
University of Manitoba
Winnipeg, MB Canada