At the heart of the New College experience are its student life programs. The College offers students extracurricular and co-curricular programming, experiential learning, community engagement and leadership development, all of which support students’ academic and personal success. As a student at New College, you will have opportunities to take part in many enriching activities, like our exam prep days (Let’s Talk), SPROUT mentorship events, field trips, and a variety of educational and social pursuits. You also may want to get involved in the New College Student Council, the New College Residence Council, or one of the many clubs and groups housed at New College.
Living at New—Residence Life
The New College Residence, comprising three buildings, provides a vibrant community for over 850 students. Residence is more than just a place to live; it is a home, a place to make life-long friends and an abundant resource of programs and services that support the student experience. We aim to extend learning beyond the classroom by providing a host of extracurricular and co-curricular activities to develop students’ understanding of the world beyond campus.
New College offers unique living environments catering to the differing needs of our student body. These include multi-faculty communities, and single-gender as well as gender-inclusive (or all-gender) communities. New College also offers three room options for residents: traditional single and double rooms, as well as our bed-over-desk double rooms. Each room comes furnished with a bed, desk, desk chair and wardrobe.
Residence Dons
Dons are full-time students who work to support student activities and academics in residence. Generally senior undergraduate students or graduate students, dons are able to draw from their own experiences as students to assist residents in navigating the university and also personal issues that may arise during the transition into first year. Dons provide leadership, support, academic referrals and advice to residents, and direct students for further supports. They also help to organize social, educational and academic activities within the residence. The dons have an important role in maintaining order in the house and encouraging individuals to avoid behaviour that may negatively impact other residents.
First Year Experience @ NEW
The First Year Experience at New College is a suite of programs spanning from June through April that are designed to support new students as they transition in and through their first year at the College. These programs group all new students with upper-year New College student leaders who will stay visible and accessible throughout the year. The First Year Experience consists of three marquee programs: SPROUT E-Mentorship (Summer), New Roots (New College Orientation, New Journeys International Welcome, IGNITE Academic Orientation), and SPROUT Mentorship (Fall-Winter).
Career Mentorship Program
For over 20 years, the New College Career Mentorship Program has helped to increase students’ exposure to ideas, connections and friendships while developing their career trajectory. Mentors and mentees are connected according to personal interests and career aspirations, ensuring a meaningful exchange for both students and their alumni mentors.
Photo: Connie Tsang
