Welcome to March in Ontario!
As winter slowly loosens its grip, you’ll start to notice longer days, milder temperatures, and the first signs of spring. March is a great time to explore local events, enjoy outdoor activities like early spring hikes, and take advantage of student discounts at museums and attractions. Don’t forget—Daylight Saving Time begins this month, so clocks move one hour forward. We hope you make the most of this transitional and exciting time of year!
Purple Woods Maple Syrup Festival
Every March, international students can enjoy one of Durham Region’s sweetest traditions at the Purple Woods Maple Syrup Festival, held at the Purple Woods Conservation Area in Oshawa. This year’s festival runs March 14–29, 2026, offering self‑guided tours through the sugarbush, demonstrations of maple syrup production, games, activities, horse‑drawn wagon rides, and delicious pancakes topped with fresh local syrup. It’s a great way to experience an iconic Canadian spring event and enjoy the outdoors as winter melts away.
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GISE Workshop – From Contacts to Connections: Networking with Purpose for Career Growth (Virtual)
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
10:00 – 11:00 AM
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Join this workshop to learn about networking techniques, including how to stand out on LinkedIn, one of the largest professional networking sites, and how to network and build meaningful connections when you are on the job hunt. Register here. |
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Housing Pulse
March & April rentals fill quickly, decide early.
If you’re not renewing your lease, remember to provide 60 days’ written notice to your landlord and start your housing search now.
If you’re re-signing, review:
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Rent increase details
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Updated lease terms
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Outstanding maintenance issues
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International Alumni Talks 2026 (In Person)Thursday, March 26, 2026
5:30 – 7:30 PM
Are you looking for a job and to network? Would you like to learn how some international students went from graduating to finding work in their desired field? This is your chance to build your connections with industry professionals. At this in-person event, you will also have a chance to network with leaders in their fields (business leaders/employers/recruiters) through speed networking. Refreshments will be provided at the event.
Please register early to save a spot. Be sure to also check in early on the event day.
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International Student Mid-Semester Check-in (In Person) Wednesday, March 4, 2026
1:00 – 3:00 PM
The Pit (Oshawa Campus)
We’d love to hear how your semester is going and chat about any questions or concerns you may have, whether they’re related to immigration applications, work eligibility, engagement opportunities, or supports/resources available to you.
No registration is needed. Stop by anytime during the session for a one-on-one conversation and enjoy some light refreshments. We’re here to support you.
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Have Your Say! Let us know what you would like to see as menu items in the Dining Hall
Did you know that you can provide suggestions as to what’s provided on the menu at the Dining Hall? The Dining Hall is located in the South Village at the Oshawa campus. Students can provide suggestions in a few ways. First, the Dining Hall hosts ‘Food Talk sessions’ on a monthly basis, which are open table discussions with the head chef (no sign-ups required). A table is set up at the entrance of the Food Hall that has high visibility and will at times offer samples to help gain more feedback and engagement from students. The days these sessions are held are not on the same day every month; so students must check in with the Dining Hall to enquire. Another way is through the ‘FoodBack’ platform, where students can leave feedback anytime they'd like. Students can fill out forms via QR codes posted at the Dining Hall and in the International Education office (SSB 210).
Lastly, you can check out DC Eats Instagram here to see what’s coming up as far as dining on campus, and you can check out the Dining Hall’s menu items each day here.
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Living a Healthy Lifestyle - Stay balanced as the semester gets busy
March is a great time to reset your routine as the days get a little brighter. Try these simple habits to stay well:
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Take a quick walk between classes or explore a nearby trail as snow begins to melt.
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Add leafy greens, berries, or whole grains to help you stay focused during mid‑semester demands.
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Pick one goal for March like drinking more water or stretching for 5 minutes a day.
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Take short breaks, breathe deeply, and reach out if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
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Durham Holi Celebration 2026
Saturday, March 7, 2026
10:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Once again, get ready for an unforgettable burst of colour, music, and community at Holi Celebration Durham – Holi Fest 2026, hosted by Unity in Diversity!
Ticket Price: $5, and it includes:
$5 FOOD COUPON (Please don't scan the code prior to the event)
Entry and FREE Parking
FREE Holi Colours
For more information on this event, check here.
Disclaimer: The College is not associated with this event. Students are responsible for their own transportation, safety, and any insurance considerations.
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Book an Online Meeting
Looking to meet one-on-one with a member of the International Student Support and Engagement (ISSE) team?
Our licensed immigration advisors: Dandan, Filippo (Phil), and Sarah are here to support you with any immigration-related questions. If you need help with housing, you can also book an appointment with our dedicated International Education Housing Specialist, Pranav.
Click here to book your appointment and have an in-depth conversation!
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Meet Your International Educational Team
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FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA TO FIND OUT MORE!
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