Human Biology at University of Toronto (Scarborough)

Maria (Year 2)

maria.mian1616@gmail.com

What did you wish you knew before going to your university? What made you choose this institution over all others? What are advantages and disadvantages of your institution or campus? List any advice for incoming first-year students about your university.

Being accepted at the University Of Toronto is honestly a huge accomplishment in itself as it is one of the best universities in the country and the world. No matter what campus you attend, you are a UofT student and should be very proud of how far you’ve come! Advantages of UofT is that there are many many programs to choose from. Disadvantage is the environment at times can get slightly competitive, but you should never let that discourage you from giving it your all and being proud of your accomplishments! For incoming students, don’t be shy to ask questions! I know university is intimidating for the first semester mostly as you adjust into this new routine and learning style. But never hesitate to ask for help or clarification! And most importantly be confident!

What did you wish you knew before choosing your specific program? What are the advantages and disadvantages of your program? List any advice for incoming first-year students about your program of study.

Personally my biggest confusion was whether my program (specifically my two majors) had too many overlapping courses. It is a UofT times that your two majors cannot have too many overlapping courses. This rule was actually very confusing to understand. I would recommend making an appointment with an Academic advising agent for clarification and assistance!

What was your favourite university experience?

Since it’s only been my first year (that too being cut due to Covid). I’ll have to say my best experience was probably just walking around campus and feeling the whole university vibe. Especially the “wow I worked so hard and I’m finally here” feeling. It truly does feel nice!

What was your least favourite university experience?

My worst experience took place during the first semester, which is why after I share my experience I will provide some advice. Near the final exam period things got very hectic from every course and it became very hard to manage everything (I.e handing in assignments, labs, studying for exams, etc). I also started losing motivation because I can’t lie, the first semester really takes it all out of you! My advice to students is to stay strong and motivated till then end! I know it can get hard and tiring. But you have to keep that same motivation and determination that you had at the beginning of the semester all the way till your last exam! You got this!!!!

What is the hardest part about your program and what were the steps that you took to overcome any difficulties?

So I haven’t quite started my program yet. But I would advise students to pre plan everything. Or at least have a roadmap of what you want to do. What courses you want to take, what majors minors specialist you would like to do. And at the end of your degree where will it take you?

If you were able to take electives, what was your favourite elective? If you were not able to take electives, what was your favourite course and why?

Personally, I really enjoyed STAB22. It's a statistics course and it’s extremely easy as long as you pay attention to lecture slides and tutorials. (You also get to take a cheat sheet for exams so make sure to get all the formulas down!) But overall a very fun and informative course!

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