“I'm grateful for the Transition Coaching Program for allowing me the opportunity to be connected with someone who has gone through all these experiences before! Thanks to this program, I felt like I belonged more at the university and that my struggles weren't just limited to me. It allowed me to meet someone who continually helped and inspired me to find my direction. In all, the program helped me feel more assured and happier in my transition to university by speaking with someone I could trust and confide in matters I couldn't admit to others." -Transition Coaching Program Participant
What is the Transition Coaching Program?
Adjusting to university life in your first year can certainly be a challenge. Between your academic responsibilities, your commitments to family and friends, taking care of yourself and managing all the demands life throws your way, it’s common to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next.
With the support of the Transition Coaching Program, you can build the skills you need to meet and exceed your expectations, and help answer some incredibly important questions:
- How do I make goals for myself and stick to them?
- How do I better manage my time and get my work done?
- How do I manage my stress during the school year?
- How do I make new friends and get involved on campus?
- Who is here to support me on campus?
Six key areas of transition difficulty?
The Transition Coaching Program is based on six key areas of transition development such as:
- Learning Course Material
- Managing Your Time
- Paying for College Expenses
- Getting Help with School Work
- Making New Friends
- Interacting with Faculty
Through one-on-one coaching meetings with the Academic Coach and Peer Coaches, you will improve these transition skills. We will give you tangible strategies tailored to first year students, help you set strong goals, and connect you with the campus resources and programs that meet your needs.
Benefits of Joining the Program
- Access to one-on-one meetings with your Peer Coach, a successful upper-year student at UTM, ready to share their experiences and help guide you to achieve your goals.
- Receive individualized and continuous feedback on your goal setting throughout the semester.
- Learn about and connect with all the great resources and services available to you at UTM.
- Access to asynchronous content and activities whenever you need them to help you develop the skills you need to learn course material, manage your time, get involved on campus, interact with faculty, and much more
- Receive Co-Curricular Record (CCR) credit for participation in the program.
Get to Know Our 2025 Coaches!
Coach Maryam
Hello! My name is Maryam and I’m in my fourth year, completing a Biology for Health Science Major with a double minor in Biomedical Communications and Creative Writing. I’m the Team Lead for the Transition Coaching Program this year and I’m so excited to support you as you navigate university life! Outside of studies, you can find me curled up with a good book, writing out all my crazy stories, and spending time with friends and family!
Coach Mondher
Hi! I’m Mondher, a second-year Computer Science specialist. This is my first year with the CSE, and I’m excited to join the TCP team to make a meaningful impact and support students. I know how valuable it can be to have guidance during these years, and I’m eager to help make that experience smoother and more enjoyable for others. Outside of studies, I like staying active, practicing sports, and catching up with friends.
Coach Hafsa
My name is Hafsa and I am in my third year of a Chemistry specialist and Biology minor. This is my first time working for the CSE and I'm really looking forward to it. I'm hoping to go into research as my career by hopefully completing a PhD in medicinal chemistry at UofT. Outside of school I really enjoy nature walks, hiking, or anything outdoorsy.
Coach Sohaira
Hello! I’m Sohaira, and I’m in my fourth year specializing in digital enterprise management. As a peer coach, I’m looking forward to working with students in making their first year a successful and enjoyable experience. In my free time, I enjoy painting, skating, and hanging out with my friends!
Coach Riya
Hello, my name is Riya, and I am currently in my 3rd year specializing in Biology. This is my first year working with the Transition Coaching program, and I'm excited to contribute to the success and well-being of fellow students as they navigate their university journey. A little about me: I’ve spent 6 years practicing judo and 4 years wrestling, which has taught me the importance of discipline, resilience, and teamwork—values that I carry into my academic and professional life. Beyond my passion for sports, I love expressing my creativity through painting and find peace in nature while walking on trails. These hobbies help me maintain a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. I’m looking forward to working with everyone and making a positive impact in this program!
How is the program structured?
Week 1
First appointment with the Academic Coach (30-45 minutes)
Week 2
Follow-up with your Peer Coach (30-45 minutes)
Week 3
Independent work on your progress to your goal
Week 4
Follow-up with your Peer Coach (30-45 minutes)
Week 5
Final appointment with the Academic Coach (30-45 minutes)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone participate?
This program is open invitation for first year students! Students can register by completing this form and a member of the TCP team will contact you in January 2025 to book an appointment.
What are coaching appointments like?
Your coach will review their insights from your BCSSE report with you and together you will highlight key transition skills for you to work on. Your appointments with the peer coaches will help you develop an action plan to improve those skills.
What is the time commitment like?
The program takes place over a five-week period. Each appointment is a week to two weeks apart and will be 30-45 minutes long. At each appointment, you will book your following appointment.
The personal work you to do achieve your goals outside of appointments is ultimately up to you. What you put into this program, is what you will get out of it! We'll be here the entire time to support you in identifying and taking whatever next steps you need to get to your place of success!
How do I attend appointments?
Appointments will be held virtually on Microsoft Teams or in-person. If alternative accommodations are needed, please let us know.
Inquiries
For all questions and feedback regarding Transition Coaching Program, please contact:
Seeret Samra
Student Engagement Coordinator; Transition Coaching