My Favourite Spots on Campus

During my four years here, I’ve had the opportunity to explore the various different spaces that our university offers. Some of these spaces have become my go-to locations to enjoy certain activities. 

Here are five of my favourite spots on campus: 

The Centre for Urban Innovation (CUI) serves as a research hub for urban infrastructure issues. No classes actually take place at CUI making it pretty quiet. And quiet is exactly what I want when I need to get some serious studying done. 

The building itself is quite spacious and modern. You should have no issue finding an available table. 

It’s become somewhat of a tradition in my group of friends to hang out at Ram in the Rye after exams are over. Ram in the Rye offers everything you would typically expect out of a pub: food, drinks and pool tables! 

You should also know that social events like karaoke nights are often hosted there. That should definitely help to take your mind off of exams! 

Everyone knows of the Quad, the green space surrounded by the four corners of Kerr Hall, but there are other spots on campus to enjoy the outdoors. 

Nelson Mandela Walk is the area of Victoria Street in between Gerrard Street and Gould Street. Whenever I need some fresh air, I like to take a stroll down Nelson Mandela Walk or sit on one of the benches there. I find the area quite peaceful as not many people pass through there. 

If you’re looking to grab a bite to eat in a spot that’s cozier than Ram in the Rye, then look no further than Oakham Café! The red brick walls and displayed student artwork provide a comfortable atmosphere for you to enjoy quality food at unbeatable prices. 

I recommend that everyone try the student loan special with scrambled tofu. At $5.99, you’d be hard pressed to find any non-fast food restaurant in the city serving a meal at that price! 

The Mattamy Athletic Centre (MAC) (external link, opens in new window)  is one of two gyms at our university. As one of the most renowned buildings in hockey history and the home of the Toronto Maple Leafs for 68 years, it goes without saying that the MAC’s facilities are state of the art. 

The MAC Fitness Centre with its eight power/squat racks and free weights have everything that I look for in a gym. The MAC’s actually also not a bad place for studying. I’ve spent some time studying in the seats located beside the MAC Fitness Centre and the seats overlooking the Coca-Cola Court. 

You can take a closer look at our university’s campus by going on a Campus Tour. Have fun exploring! 

- Jeremy