The RGASC's Head Start program is designed to introduce incoming UTM students to the academic environment, expectations, skills, and resources they can expect to encounter in their first year on campus.
Free sessions feature senior student panels, first year faculty, RGASC learning strategists, and campus partners on topics related to how to manage the transition from high school to university successfully.
Head Start is part of UTM's pre-arrival orientation programming. Head Start 2025 sessions will take place in-person on August 25- August 28, 2025. More details will be posted as they become available.
Why Attend Head Start
Discover what is expected of first-year students as active learners in the academic community at UTM
Identify learning strategies and academic skills that you can develop to enhance your academic confidence and performance
Learn about key campus resources that will support your learning and development through your first year to graduation
Program Topics
Sessions at Head Start cover strategies and skills you will need to successfully transition from high school to university. Topics include:
- Writing for University and beyond
- Note-taking Strategies for University
- Time Management and Study Planning
- Deep Reading for Deep Learning
- Understanding Academic Integrity at UTM
- Library 101
- Navigating UTM Tools for Academic Success
Student Reviews
Hear from past participants of the RGASC's Head Start program as they share how the experience helped them feel more prepared, confident, and connected before starting their first year at UTM. Learn how Head Start can make your transition to university smoother.
Registration for 2025 sessions has not yet opened. Details will be shared here and directly with incoming students in early July.
FAQ
You’re welcome to bring a laptop if you’d like, but it’s not required. We’ll provide all the materials and resources you need during the Head Start sessions!
EagleConnect is an online program that helps you get comfortable with UTM through short modules, webinars, and virtual events, all supported by upper-year Squad Leaders. Head Start is an in-person event in late August that focuses on academic preparation with sessions led by professors, learning strategists, and senior students. Both are free and designed to support your transition, just in different ways.
If you have any questions about Head Start or need more information, feel free to email us at academicskills.utm@utoronto.ca, we’re happy to help!