May in Ontario is a delightful time as spring fully blossoms. The weather varies across the province, with temperatures ranging from a cool 9°C in northern regions to a pleasant 21°C in southern areas. Rainfall is common, especially in southern Ontario, but the increasing hours of sunshine bring warmth and cheer. This month is perfect for exploring Ontario's vibrant cities, beautiful parks, and engaging cultural events. 

One of the highlights of May is Victoria Day, celebrated on the Monday preceding May 25th. Known colloquially as "May 24," this holiday marks the birthday of Queen Victoria and is often seen as the unofficial start of summer. Many people take advantage of the long weekend to enjoy outdoor activities, open their summer cottages, and celebrate with fireworks and gatherings. Don’t forget your sunscreen!

 

Monthly Immigration Workshop
Study Permit and Work Authorization (Virtual)



At this workshop, we will guide you through the process of applying for your initial study permit from outside of Canada. We will provide clarity on where and how you can obtain your study permit and discuss the work eligibility associated with it. Join us to get a better understanding of the steps and options available for international students like you.


Date: Monday, May 26, 2025    Time: 10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M.


Location: ZOOM


Register early HERE


The recordings of previous immigration workshops and videos can be found on our YouTube channel.


 


International Student Welcome
Chai Time Meet & Greet (In Person)


Main floor of Student Services Building at Oshawa Campus

Join us for a Chai Time Meet & Greet session, offered in person and required for all new international students starting their first DC program in May 2025. With a variety of fun-filled activities, this session promises to be a celebration of community and Canadian culture, welcoming you to your new home at DC. 


Date: Friday, May 2, 2025    Time: 12:00 P.M. – 1:00 P.M.


Location: Student Services Building, Oshawa Campus


Register early HERE

Registration in advance is mandatory. Be there!



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Global Learner Recognition Program at DC


The free Global Learner Recognition Program celebrates students who engage in global learning both at home and abroad. Whether participating in international exchanges, virtual global classrooms, or on-campus intercultural activities, students develop valuable cross-cultural skills that enhance their personal and professional growth. Taking part in student clubs, volunteering both on or off campus and even taking culturally aware courses are all eligible for points!

Participants who complete the program receive a recognition of completion and a digital badge, showcasing their global competencies to future employers and academic institutions. It's a powerful way to stand out in today’s interconnected world! To enroll, send an email to educationabroad@durhamcollege.ca along with your student ID requesting to participate.






 




International Student Mentorship Program

Recruiting mentors and mentees for our International Student Mentorship Program!  



 
Attention Durham College international students! We are currently recruiting mentors and mentees for our International Student Mentorship Program. The program is designed to help first-semester international students in their journey at Durham College and life in Canada. Mentors and mentees meet (physically, virtually, email, etc.) at least 3 times in the Spring-Summer 2025 semester (May to August), and they may choose to meet more than that if they wish.

Mentors will gain quality experience helping others, and mentees will benefit from being able to have their questions answered from those who have knowledge of and experience with Durham College and living in Canada. We will also host two mingling events, with refreshments and prizes, and provide recognition to mentors that successfully meet their mentees 3 or more times throughout the semester. Details of this and the ability to sign up can be found HERE on our program webpage.

Thank you for your interest!


Please visit our Mentorship program page HERE.


Living a Healthy Lifestyle – Spend less time sitting!

Sitting for long periods can negatively impact your health, so don’t forget to add more movement to your day as this can boost your energy, improve your mood, and enhance your overall well-being. Try taking short breaks to stretch, walk around campus, or even join a fitness class.

Check out HERE for free fitness classes on campus!


 


EXCITING EVENTS ON CAMPUS & AROUND YOU!


Global Café - Roommate Mixer (In Person)


Join us to learn more about signing a new lease, negotiating with landlords and find a potential roommate over some light refreshments. Open to all Durham College students, this is an opportunity for new international students to find new roommates. Registration in advance is mandatory. Sign up now!
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Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2025    Time: 11:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.

Location: President’s Lounge Student Centre DCSA Oshawa Campus

Register HERE



 Spring Into Wellness with Pop-Up Pilates! (In Person)

Looking for a fun way to de-stress and get moving this spring? Join us for Pop-Up Pilates at Polonsky Commons! This free outdoor session is open to all fitness levels and offers a chance to stretch, strengthen, and soak up some sunshine. Whether you're new to Pilates or a seasoned pro, this is a great way to take a break, connect with others, and prioritize your well-being.


Don’t forget to bring a friend, a water bottle, and your positive energy!


Date: Tuesday, May 13, 2025

Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Location:  Polonsky Commons,
(Weather Location- Aerobics Room 2 CRWC)


Register HERE
 

International Ask-Us-Anything Sessions


Have questions? We have answers!
If you have questions about immigration, tuition, second program, health care or anything else, the International Education team members are here to help!

Register for these online sessions HERE.

Every Tuesday 9:00 AM, ET
Join Zoom Meeting


https://durhamcollege-ca.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJItcOGrqTIuG9QpwMbHj7-nW6n7w3iIyhWK


Every Thursday 3:00PM, ET
Join Zoom Meeting


https://durhamcollege-ca.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJAkcOmrqz8tGtchtXeaXzpM9GWe5ZBQk4RX





 
GET OUTSIDE! GET ACTIVE!


DURHAM REGION WEEKLY NEWSLETTER

https://www.durham.ca/en/regional-government/this-week-in-durham-region.aspx

For more details on local and regional events, visit DurhamTourism.ca/events.

Survey opportunity - Off-Campus Wellness: Where are international students finding support?

 
 
International students may face many challenges when they study in Canada.  The University of Toronto is conducting a short survey about where and how students find support when life gets hard.

PLEASE COMPLETE THEIR SURVEY at the link below. You could win a $100 Visa Gift Card!


https://forms.office.com/r/3jxr4qirNe


FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA TO FIND OUT MORE! 

 
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