Student Wellness | Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) /gradstudies Mon, 28 Sep 2026 13:53:52 +0000 en-CA hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.10 Choose Grad 91ÑÇÉ« 2026 – Online Series /gradstudies/choose-grad-york/ Tue, 03 Feb 2026 16:00:41 +0000 /gradstudies/?page_id=68275

We’ve got a series of webinars planned to help you choose Graduate Studies at 91ÑÇÉ«.

Wherever you are in your graduate school journey, holding an offer, waiting on a decision, or simply exploring your options, the Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) invites you to Choose Grad 91ÑÇÉ«, a week-long lunch-hour webinar series designed to support your decision-making process. Running from March 23 to March 27, 2026, this series helps demystify graduate studies at 91ÑÇÉ« and gives you a clearer picture of what it’s like to be part of our graduate community.

Across five online sessions, you’ll hear from decanal leadership, faculty, staff, current students, and alumni about why 91ÑÇÉ« is an excellent place to pursue graduate studies and how a 91ÑÇÉ« degree can help you make an impact beyond the University. All webinars take place online via Zoom from 12:00 to 1:00 P.M. ET. Registration is free and now open.

TOPIC: Navigating A Graduate Degree with Dean MacLachlan

DATE: Monday, March 23, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: In this webinar, our Vice Provost & Dean (Alice MacLachlan) will be speaking on the role of the student in a graduate degree, degree types and structures in the different disciplines, forming your individualised research ideas, and supports for personal and research development.

TOPIC: Learning about Grad School from Our Alumni – Panel Discussion

DATE: Tuesday, March 24, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: Entering a master’s program or continuing into a PhD presents many considerations for students to think about. We want to help support future students in their decision-making process! Associate Dean Academic, Cheryl van Daalen-Smith, will be speaking with both master’s and doctoral alumni to learn about their graduate student experience, and how their degrees have supported their future aspirations. The panelists will bring rich perspectives to future students grappled with various questions and share resources available to graduate students in the Faculty of Graduate Studies.

TOPIC: How to Pay for Grad School: Funding, Scholarships, Bursaries, OSAP, and more

DATE: Wednesday, March 25, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: Join us to learn more about the many kinds of financial support available to graduate students to help fund their studies. This session will cover the separate categories of financial support, including funding packages, scholarships, other awards, bursaries, and OSAP. Learn more about which supports require an application, which supports you are automatically considered for, and the various timelines associated with each.

TOPIC: Discussion Panel with Current Scholars

DATE: Thursday, March 26, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: Join us to learn more about the graduate student experience at 91ÑÇÉ«. Our student panellists will discuss a range of topics, including their application experience, the transition from undergraduate to graduate studies, funding, scholarships, program experiences, research & supervision experience, and much more.

TOPIC: Coming to Canada - The International Student Experience

DATE: Friday, March 27, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: Coming to Canada: The International Student Experience is an engaging session designed to help prospective and newly admitted students understand what life in Canada truly looks like, from navigating academics and campus culture to settling into a new country with confidence. Through real stories, practical guidance, and honest insights into the challenges and opportunities international students face, this session prepares learners to thrive both inside and outside the classroom. Attendees will leave with a clearer picture of what to expect, where to find support, and how to make the most of their Canadian journey.

]]> Pre-Arrival Webinars for Incoming Grad Students /gradstudies/pre-arrival-webinars/ Wed, 28 Jan 2026 21:13:13 +0000 /gradstudies/?page_id=68170

Supporting Your Transition: Pre-Arrival Webinars

New students are encouraged to look ahead to program orientation events, many of which will take place over the summer or at the start of the Fall semester. To support early preparation, the Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) offers a series of virtual pre-arrival webinars designed to help ensure a smooth transition into your program. These sessions serve as a guide to the key steps between acceptance and the start of classes.

TOPIC: Study Permit Application Support Session for Graduate Students

DATE: Wednesday, April 1, 2026

TIME: 9:00–10:00 a.m. ET

Details of Session: Join our support session led by 91ÑÇÉ« International’s licensed immigration advisors. Learn how to navigate the study permit application process, avoid common mistakes, and get answers to your questions. This session is designed to ensure you feel confident as you take this important step toward studying in Canada.

TOPIC: You've Been Admitted! What's Next?

DATE: Tuesday, April 28, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: In this session, we will go over a checklist of useful resources such as: how to accept your offer, submitting required documentation to meet conditions, accommodations for students with a disability, setting up Passport 91ÑÇÉ« and your email account, how to register for academic terms, how to enrol in courses, getting your YU card, the cost of living in Toronto, transit options, health plans and services, attending GRAD@91ÑÇÉ« and more! 

TOPIC: How to Pay for Grad School: Funding, Scholarships, Bursaries, OSAP, and more

DATE: Wednesday, May 13, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: Join us to learn more about the many kinds of financial support available to graduate students to help fund their studies. In this session we will cover each of these separate categories of financial support: Funding Packages Scholarships Other Awards Bursaries OSAP Learn more about which supports require an application, which supports you are automatically considered for, and the various timelines associated with each.

TOPIC: Ask Us Anything: Applying for a Study Permit for Graduate Programs

DATE: Wednesday, May 20, 2026

TIME: 9:00–10:00 a.m. ET

Details of Session: Join 91ÑÇÉ« International’s licensed immigration advisors for an interactive Q&A session designed to help you understand the process and get answers to what matters most to you.

TOPIC: Discover Graduate Supervision at 91ÑÇÉ«

DATE: Tuesday, June 16, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: This webinar explores the role supervision plays in graduate studies, highlighting how it shapes your learning experience. Designed for new graduate students, we will unpack the Ontario Principles for Graduate Supervision, focusing on student responsibilities. Hearing from current grad students, participants will learn tips for effective supervisor-student relationships, do’s and don’ts for understanding expectations, and making the most of your supervisory experience. Our goal is to help start you off on a successful grad school journey. 

TOPIC: Navigating Course Registration and Online Resources at 91ÑÇÉ«

DATE: Thursday, June 25, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: In this session, we will go over the various web platforms at 91ÑÇÉ« that you should become familiar with. This includes: Registering Online, Enrolling in Courses, our Faculty of Graduate Studies’ website, your graduate program website, 91ÑÇɫ’s Events Calendar, Better Together, Appointment Booking Portals, Important Contacts, Incoming Class Facebook Group, and more!

TOPIC: A New Chapter: Dean MacLachlan Welcomes New Graduate Students to 91ÑÇÉ«

DATE: Tuesday, July 21, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: In this special session from the Dean of Graduate Studies, we are excited to connect with you and introduce you to the incredible opportunities that await you at 91ÑÇÉ«. This conversation is your chance to learn more about our vibrant academic community, the support systems in place to help you succeed, and the lifelong connections you’ll build here. We look forward to answering your questions, sharing insights and resources, and helping you navigate this exciting new graduate studies chapter.

TOPIC: A Day in the Life of an MA Student

DATE: Tuesday, August 11, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: This session will feature a group of current MA students from a variety of programs talking about their experiences during the transition to graduate school. We'll discuss what 'a day in the life' looks like, what the most surprising thing about graduate school was, tips and tricks for incoming students, and more!

TOPIC: A Day in the Life of an MSc/MASc Student

DATE: Tuesday, August 18, 2026

TIME: 12:00–1:00 p.m. ET

Details of Session: This session will feature a group of current MSc/MASc students from a variety of programs talking about their experiences during the transition to graduate school. We'll discuss what 'a day in the life' looks like, what the most surprising thing about graduate school was, tips and tricks for incoming students, and more!

]]> GradForward Online Series /gradstudies/grad-forward-series/ Wed, 28 May 2025 13:14:33 +0000 /gradstudies/?page_id=64802

Kickstart Fall 2026 with Confidence!

Our GradForward series at 91ÑÇÉ« offers a comprehensive lineup of 30-minute virtual sessions designed to support both incoming and continuing graduate students. Scheduled from September 9 to September 11, 2026, these sessions cover essential topics such as scholarships and awards, graduate funding, academic integrity, professional skills development, student affairs, and effective use of graduate portals. Led by experienced faculty and staff, the series aims to equip students with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate their graduate studies successfully. All sessions are free and accessible via Zoom, providing an excellent opportunity for students to engage with the University's support services and build a strong foundation for their academic journey.

TOPIC: Scholarships & Awards

DATE: Wednesday, September 9, 2026

TIME: 10:00 am - 10:30 am ET

Host Team: Graduate Awards & External Scholarships

Details of Session: In this session, learn about information on awards, scholarships and other financial sources that you can apply to through the Financial Aid, Awards and Scholarships (FAAS) system at 91ÑÇÉ«.

TOPIC: Graduate Funding

DATE: Wednesday, September 9, 2026

TIME: 2:00 pm - 2:30 pm ET

Host Team: Graduate Finance & Funding

Details of Session: In this session, learn about information on funding graduate education, scheduling an appointment with your Graduate Funding Advisor, and the Financial Aid, Awards and Scholarships (FAAS) system at 91ÑÇÉ«.

TOPIC: Academic Integrity & Professional Skills Development Opportunities

DATE: Thursday, September 10, 2026

TIME: 10:00 am - 10:30 am ET

Host Team: Graduate Academic Affairs

Details of Session: In this session, learn about the mandatory Academic Integrity Module for new graduate students and related resources to assist you in your new academic journey. Building off these, the session will then focus on helpful resources and involvement opportunities to support your academic and career goals, including the Graduate and Postdoctoral Professional Skills (GPPS) program and the Individualized Development Plan (IDP).

TOPIC: Graduate Supervision

DATE: Thursday, September 10, 2026

TIME: 2:00 pm - 2:30 pm ET

Host Team: Graduate Supervision Support Hub

Details of Session:In this session, learn the roles and responsibilities of both students and supervisors in fostering a productive and professional academic relationship.

TOPIC: Graduate Student Wellness Services

DATE: Friday, September 11, 2026

TIME: 9:00 am - 9:30 am ET

Host Team: Graduate Student Wellness Services

Details of Session: In this session, learn about FGS' Graduate Student Wellness Services and how it aims to support and enhance your mental health and well-being during your studies.

TOPIC: Navigating Graduate Portals for FGS Processes

DATE: Friday, September 11, 2026

TIME: 11:00 am - 11:30 am ET

Host Team: Continuous Improvement

Details of Session: In this session, obtain a walk through our graduate portals and discover how to use them for specific FGS processes.

TOPIC: Student Affairs

DATE: Friday, September 11, 2026

TIME: 1:00 pm - 1:30 pm ET

Host Team: Graduate Student Affairs

Details of Session: In this session, learn about the key processes and policies that impact you around registration, graduate milestones, and processes like petitions. Get a brief look at some key timelines you will experience as a graduate student. 

]]> Reflecting on 2022: Important initiatives taking flight at FGS /gradstudies/2022/12/22/2022-reflections/ Thu, 22 Dec 2022 14:20:00 +0000 /gradstudies/?p=50032

91ÑÇÉ« developed its most recent University Academic Plan (UAP) in 2020, which included a university-wide challenge to contribute to the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs act as a framework to take urgent action in 17 areas that are critical to ensure peace and prosperity for people and the planet. 91ÑÇɫ’s SDG challenge has enabled faculty, staff and students to think outside the box and create meaningful change in the community. From addressing SDG #4 (Quality Education) to SDG #10 (Reduced Inequalities), here are just a few of the important initiatives that took place at the Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) in 2022.

Over 400 research and professional development initiatives have been funded through the Academic Excellence Fund (AEF). Many graduate students rely on internal funding in order to cover and subsidize research expenses. This easily accessible fund provides the resources necessary to present and publish research, collaborate with others and participate in professional development activities. Supporting quality education (SDG #4) embodies 91ÑÇɫ’s commitment to fostering a positive educational experience for all.

computer on a desk with the words "FGS reflects on 2022" on the computer screen

Graduate Student Wellness Services welcomed their first clinical practicum student. The addition to the Wellness Consultation & Counselling team during the 2021-22 academic year provides greater access to grad-specific counselling at 91ÑÇÉ«. This initiative promotes good health and well-being (SDG #3) through the easily accessible wellness consultations, which can provide a starting point for students seeking to enhance their personal mental health.

Meta endowed a prestigious $250k fellowship. This endowment establishes the first-ever corporate-sponsored graduate fund for sustaining vision research at 91ÑÇÉ«, which the University has dedicated to its Centre for Vision Research. SDG #9 (Industry, innovation, and infrastructure) emphasizes how important it is to promote innovation in order to enable positive change and foster a successful community. 91ÑÇÉ« has been producing cutting-edge work in vision research for decades and now has further support to continue this globally impactful work.

Four outstanding scholars were named recipients of the 2022 Postdoctoral Fellowships for Black and Indigenous Scholars. Sylvester Aboagye, Landing Badji, Leora Gansworth and Graeme Reed are this year’s recipients of the fellowship. This important initiative sets individuals up for a successful career by providing four scholars annually with a salary of $70,000 per year for a two-year term and supporting their research and collaboration endevours.

FGS partnered with the Office of the University Registrar (OUR) and the Indigenous Council to build an Indigenous Queue in Grad Adjudication. This new feature enables the review and contextualization of Indigenous applications by Indigenous Faculty members and responds to the Indigenous Framework's call to increase the recruitment and admission of Indigenous applicants. This initiative acts as a key opportunity area for 91ÑÇÉ« to facilitate greater access to higher education and is reflective of SDG #10 (Reduced Inequality). 91ÑÇÉ« aims to promote an inclusive research culture by creating policies and initiatives that encourage equality and hopes that other institutions follow suit.

The number of Indigenous Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) Awards increased annually for Indigenous graduate scholars. The additional resource will enable Indigenous researchers to access much needed funding, promote culturally responsive research and engage in collaborative initiatives.

Academic integrity training becomes mandatory for incoming Graduate students. FGS’ commitment to academic honesty is at the forefront of this initiative. By establishing a mandatory academic integrity training requirement for incoming graduate students effective 2023, 91ÑÇÉ« is committed to academic honesty.

FGS standardized program-level guidelines for Graduate Milestone Examinations. To enhance the graduate student experience and support timely completion of studies, FGS supported the creation of Standardized program-level guidelines for Graduate Milestone Examinations such as the comprehensive examinations and research evaluations.

Postdoctoral researchers now have access to the Individualized Development Plan (IDP). The IDP is employed to structure conversations with one’s supervisor concerning professional skills development and to provide a framework for navigating various opportunities at the institution. This resource acts as a valuable tool for postdocs that can enable them to build a successful career.

FGS partnered with UIT to build an online portal for graduate petitions. Digitizing the petition process eliminates a paper based and manual process, allowing submission tracking and online access for ease of file review. This initiative is a key opportunity to support the graduate student experience and improves the quality and efficiency of services. Introducing online platforms into the community and eliminating paper use also promotes sustainable lifestyles, which is an important part of SDG #12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

Future students can find out more about 91ÑÇÉ« and everything the university is undertaking for the success of the community through the newly Launched Choose Grad 91ÑÇÉ« initiative– the first ever graduate conversion event. These events include: 1) a breakdown of the different parts of an offer of admission, which may include different types of funding; 2) a networking opportunity with alumni who have translated their studies into successful careers; 3) a chance to compare admissions offers and learn how to navigate the degree once the applicants have accepted their offer from 91ÑÇÉ«.

91ÑÇɫ’s SDG Challenge is ongoing, and the new year will welcome a number of other important initiatives, inspiring members of the 91ÑÇÉ« community to act as agents of positive change.

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