Navigating University - Experiencing Success on UTM campus
This drop-in program is here to support First-Gen students every step of the way—providing resources, community, and guidance to help them thrive, both on campus and beyond. This First Gen drop-in program on UTM campus is all-inclusive. We welcome racialized, international, 2SLGBTQIA+ and students with other lived identities.
First Generation (First-Gen) students are trailblazers—the first in their families to pursue post-secondary education in Canada. This journey is both inspiring and challenging. Alongside the typical pressures of university life, First-Gen students often carry the hopes and dreams of their families and communities. Their academic success is seen not just as personal achievement, but as a symbol of progress and possibility for those around them.
Outline of First Gen Program
Week 1:
Navigating UTM campus
September 10, 2025
3PM to 5PM
View additional details on CLNx
- Attending office hours – why is it important?
- How do I find employment on campus?
- What is the best approach to getting involved in campus life?
- Whom do I speak with about internships?
- Who can help me decide which career to pursue?
Week 2:
What is holding you back?
September 23, 2025
2PM to 4PM
View additional details on CLNx
- Finances
- Health
- Coping with family pressure
- Not enough time
- Do you need assistance with writing tests and exams?
- Are you good at taking notes?
- Managing stress, staying healthy, learning self-care
- Don’t feel that you belong (imposter syndrome)
Week 3:
Navigating the Pressure of Being First Gen
October 8, 2025
11AM to 1PM
View additional details on CLNx
- From high school to university; How to help family members understand the difference on your time
- Managing guilt and expectations
- Taking time out from hanging out – What does this look like
- Words of encouragement from current First Gen students
Week 4:
Centre for Student Engagement
October 24, 2025
1PM to 3PM
View additional details on CLNx
- Find on-campus volunteer and employment opportunities
- Develop leadership and communication skills
- Connect with other students
- Work with faculty
Week 5:
Let’s talk careers to make informed decisions
November 7, 2025
11AM to 1PM
View additional details on CLNx
- Introduction to career center services and programs
- Navigating CLNx and Quercus
- Take an assessment
- Why knowing your interests, skills, values and personality are important
- Meet a Career Counsellor, learn how they can help you become career ready
Have Questions?
Feel free to contact our team at careers.utm@utoronto.ca or give us a call at 905-828-5451.