Orientation at Trent Durham in Oshawa begins Saturday

Published September 1, 2023 at 2:08 pm

Connection, support, engagement, and academic readiness – the cornerstones of Orientation Week 2023 at Trent University, a week-long series of events and activities designed to provide 4,500 new students with opportunities to build lifelong friendships, resiliency, and the skills and supports needed for success at university and beyond.

“Orientation at Trent is an opportunity to welcome new students into our campuses and local communities, fostering a sense of belonging during a week filled with activities designed to prepare new students for the year ahead and for long-term success on both an academic and personal level,” shared Lawrence Lam, associate vice president of students at Trent. “Creating a sense of belonging during Orientation is very important to Trent – it’s one of the many benefits of our unique collegiate system. We empower students with diverse backgrounds and passions to make meaningful connections and thrive in their studies.”

O Week begins on Saturday, September 2 at both the Peterborough and Oshawa campuses, with move-in weekend and runs through Saturday, September 9. Events offer incoming Trent students the opportunity to take part in an array of planned activities to help them get acquainted with the campus, show their school spirit, and familiarize themselves with the local communities, as they prepare for university level learning and life.

DURHAM GTA CAMPUS

Move-In Day  

Sunday, September 3, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.  

Orientation leaders and staff from housing services at Trent Durham will welcome and support new Trent Durham students and their families with registration and their move into residence.  President Leo Groarke will be at Trent Durham between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to personally meet new students and their families.

Residence Students Scavenger Hunt 

Monday, September 4. 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. 

Students living in Trent Durham’s new residence will compete in teams in this interactive scavenger hunt on-campus, filled with riddles, trivia, and good times.

Campus Cup 
Tuesday, September 5, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The highly anticipated Campus Cup makes a triumphant return! From adrenaline-pumping physical challenges to mind-boggling intellectual quests, there’s something for everyone as groups battle for the ultimate honour of claiming the esteemed Campus Cup.

Trent Durham Campus Carnival

Tuesday, September 5, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. 

This signature Orientation Week event features interactive (and inflatable) activities, a mechanical bull, petting zoo and food trucks.

Three-Minute Professor  

Wednesday, September 6, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. 

Hear special welcome messages from department heads and learn more about various areas of study on campus. Get a glimpse into different departments through three-minute lectures from across the Trent disciplines.

The First Lecture 

Wednesday, September 6. 4 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Students attend an engaging presentation to get an idea of what to expect in their first university course. This year’s guest presenter and topic? It’s a secret. You will have to attend to find out.

Support Alley 

Thursday, September 7, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

During the first day of classes, students can explore the wide range of supports and services available at Trent Durham all year round.

Movie Night on the Lawn  
Thursday, September 7, 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.  

Students will gather for a memorable movie experience under the stars with free popcorn, cotton candy, and a giant outdoor movie screen – all on campus.

The Oshawa Orientation Experience 

Saturday, September 9, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.  

Hosted by the City of Oshawa, in partnership with Trent and city organizations, Oshawa Orientation will welcome students into the community with a scavenger hunt, a local business job fair, and a dance party.

More information about Orientation Week, including a full list of events and activities at both campuses in Peterborough and Durham GTA, can be found at trentu.ca/orientationweek.

INdurham's Editorial Standards and Policies