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January Jumpstart: Events and Activities
January Jumpstart is your chance to join the Laurier 101, Student Experience, Students' Union, Indigenous Student Services, and International Student Support teams throughout the month of January as we welcome you for the winter term.
Whether you joined Laurier in the fall or are starting this winter, January is full of opportunities to meet new people, explore campus life, and get involved. We have events designed to help you build connections, discover resources, and make the most of your Laurier experience. Check out what’s happening on your campus!
Jan. 5 to 9
New Student Welcome Lunch
Monday, Jan. 5
12:30 to 1:20 p.m.
One Market Atrium (OM100) | Registration Required
Open to students starting at Laurier in Winter 2026
Starting your Laurier journey this January? Join us for the New Student Welcome Lunch, a warm and friendly way to kick off your first day! This event is your chance to connect with other new students, meet the Laurier staff who are here to support you, and enjoy a relaxed lunch while feeling welcomed into the Golden Hawk community! Registration closes on Tuesday, Dec. 16.
Stick With It
Tuesday, Jan. 6
Noon to 3 p.m.
Student Commons Lounge (One Market)
Open to all students
Everyone loves stickers! Stop by our booth and grab a new sticker for your laptop or water bottle. We will also be offering an emotional support sticker service: bring that sticker you're just too attached to or nervous about sticking somewhere, and we will give you the confidence and support you need!
Laurier 101: Winter Welcome Drop-In
Tuesday, Jan. 6
2 to 4 p.m.
Student Commons Lounge (One Market)
Open to all students
Come drop by with Student Success and the Laurier 101 team to learn about the resources and supports available that will help you succeed as a student at Laurier. Our team provides support with math, writing, and overall study strategies that you can access throughout your time as a student. Snacks and light refreshments will be provided. By joining, you will also be entered into a draw for a $50 gift card to the Hawk Shop!
Clubs Get Involved Fair
Thursday, Jan. 8
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Research and Academic Centre - Main Lobby
Open all students
Between your classes, come check out the Get Involved Fair and all it has to offer! The Get Involved Fair is made up of student clubs and committees. Learn how you can get involved at Laurier by connecting with some of the over 30 groups present. Come for the free swag, stay for the fun!
Student Experience Welcome Back Social
Thursday, Jan. 8
1 to 3 p.m.
TBD
Open to all students
Ring in the new year and the new semester with your entire Student Experience team. Check out our space, get all the info on the various events, hiring, and initiatives being put on by the members of our Student Experience team!
MTS Winter Social: DIY Vision Board
Thursday, Jan. 8
6 to 8 p.m.
Level 1 Lounge - Nook (One Market)
Open to Mature and Transfer students
Calling all new and returning Mature and Transfer Students! Manifest your winter semester with the Student Experience team! Drop by for a bite and create a board that captures your goals, vibes, and hopes for the term!
Trivia at The Belmont
Thursday, Jan. 8
7 to 9 p.m.
The Belmont (One Market)
Open to all students
Put your knowledge to the test with Hawk Team at The Belmont! Enjoy brain-teasing questions, lots of laughs, and the chance to win exciting prizes. Gather your friends for a fun-filled night that will challenge your smarts!
Welcome Back T-Shirt and Polaroid Photo Giveaway
Tuesday, Jan. 6
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Student Commons
Open all students
Welcome back, Golden Hawks! If you're a first-year student, come get your free Milton Laurier t-shirt! If you are not in first year, don't worry, we have something for you too!
Vision Board Making
Thursday, Jan. 8
11 to 4 p.m.
MAC-112
Open to all students
Drop-in and create a vision board for 2026! Join us for a relaxing, creative experience as we cut, paste, and design vision boards that reflect your intentions and dreams for the new year!
Bingo at Wilf's
Monday, Jan. 5
8 to 10 p.m.
Wilf's Restaurant
Open to all students
Wilf's Bingo is back for the Winter semester! Join your host, Harmony, for monthly themed Bingo nights. Lots of prizes to be won!
International Student Welcome Breakfast
Wednesday, Jan. 7
9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
The Turret (3rd floor Fred Nichols Campus Centre) | Registration Required
Open to international students starting their studies in Winter 2026 and all exchange students
Kick off your Laurier journey with good vibes and great food at our International Student Welcome Breakfast!
Join us for a great morning with free breakfast, friendly faces, and fun connections. You’ll get the chance to meet your fellow international students, connect with our awesome team, and finally say hi, in person, to your International Student Leader! It’s the perfect way to start your day and your semester. | Halal, vegan, and gluten-free options will be available!
Soft Launch Your Winter Semester
Wednesday, Jan. 7
10 to 11 a.m.
The Concourse
Open to all students
Slide into the new term with our belonging boards pop-up! Share what helps you feel connected, motivated, and at home at Laurier. Each table features a quick reflective question to help you reset and start strong. Stop by, write a note, and soft-launch your winter semester with intention.
Laurier 101: Winter Welcome Drop-In
Wednesday, Jan. 7
12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
P224 (2nd Floor Peters Building)
Open to all new Winter start students
Come drop by with Student Success and the Laurier 101 team to learn about the resources and supports available that will help you succeed as a student at Laurier. Our team provides support with math, writing, and overall study strategies that you can access throughout your time as a student. Snacks and light refreshments will be provided. By joining, you will also be entered into a draw for a $50 gift card to the Hawk Shop!
Notion 101
Wednesday, Jan. 7
1 to 2 p.m.
MacDonald House 24 Lounge
Open to first-year Laurier Off-Campus University Students (LOCUS)
Kick off the new year feeling organized and in control!
Join us for Notion 101, a beginner-friendly workshop where you’ll learn how to use Notion to plan your semester, manage assignments, organize readings, and keep track of your academic schedule all in one place.
We’ll walk through the basics of building pages, using templates, and creating tools that actually work for you. Whether you’re brand new to Notion or looking to level up your setup, this session will help you start the semester strong.
Come by, bring your laptop, and leave with a Notion system that sets you up for success!
This event is hosted by the Life & Health Sciences Link. Check out our Join a LOCUS Link! section to learn more.
Wilf's Trivia
Wednesday, Jan. 7
8:30 to 10:30 p.m.
Wilf's Restaurant
Open to all students
Join our host, Danny, at our weekly trivia nights in Wilf's. Make sure you grab some friends and some food to enjoy the evening. We'll test your knowledge on different themes each week!
Cocoa and Cards
Thursday, Jan. 8
11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Concourse
Open to all students
Join us for a cozy event where a little creativity goes a long way! At Cocoa and Cards, you can sip on delicious hot chocolate while crafting thoughtful cards for elderly folks in our community.
Whether you’re into doodling, lettering, or simply writing warm wishes, your card will help brighten someone’s day this winter. All supplies will be provided, just bring yourself and a friendly spirit!
Come warm up, get creative, and help spread kindness!
Wellness Trivia and Snacks
Thursday, Jan. 8
1 to 3 p.m.
Concourse
Open to all students
Drop by, spin the wheel, and test your knowledge on all things wellness. Snacks, swag, and prizes to be won! Have a question about staying well at Laurier? Ask the Peer Wellness Educators!
Clubs Get Involved Fair
Friday, Jan. 9
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Turret (SU-Based Clubs & Committees); Faculty Building Atriums (Faculty-Based Clubs)
Open to all students
Between your classes, come check out the Get Involved Fair (GIF) and all it has to offer! The GIF is made up of student clubs and committees. Learn how you can get involved at Laurier by connecting with some of the over 150 groups present. Come for the FREE swag, stay for the FUN!
Jan. 12 to 16
Indigenous Student Welcome Back Breakfast
Monday, Jan. 12
11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Indigenous Student Centre (111 Darling St.)
Open to Indigenous students
Indigenous students are welcome to join us at the Indigenous Students Centre (ISC) for brunch. Come meet the Indigenous student staff, fellow Indigenous students, and learn more about the Indigenous community at Laurier.
Write to Wellness
Monday, Jan. 12
1 to 2 p.m.
Zoom | Registration Required
Open to all students
Take a mindful pause with the Peer Wellness Educators. This workshop will introduce journaling as a simple but effective way to reduce stress, practice gratitude, boost self-awareness, and bring more focus and productivity to your day. We'll share different journaling techniques and prompts. This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate. Register in advance.
Drop-in Self-Care
Tuesday, Jan. 13
1 to 2 p.m.
Student Commons Lounge (One Market)
Open to all students
Start your semester strong with a cozy self-care break! Join us at the Student Commons to make a self-care package. You will get a chance to learn more about Wellness Education Resources and kick off the term feeling refreshed and supported!
Taking Charge of Your Wellness
Tuesday, Jan. 13
5 to 6 p.m.
Zoom | Registration Required
Open to all students
Learn about holistic wellness and how you can take a proactive, preventative approach to build wellness in each of the seven dimensions of wellness. This workshop is the core workshop required to complete our Wellness Education Certificate!
2020 Throwback Afternoon
Wednesday, Jan. 14
3 to 5 p.m.
Level 1 Lounge (One Market)
Open to all students
2020 wasn't all bad, right? Right? Well, regardless of what your life looked like five years ago, flashback with the Student Experience team. Among Us Tournament, Throwback TV on the L1 big screen, and whipped coffee! Win our DIY Sourdough Kit!
Who's That Prof?
Thursday, Jan. 15
12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Level 1 Lounge (One Market)
Open to first-year Laurier Off-Campus University Students (LOCUS)
Think you know your Laurier professors and staff? Maybe you’ve already taken their classes, or maybe you’re still learning who’s who around campus! Either way, get ready for a fun and interactive night of trivia, laughter, and surprising stories at LOCUS' Guess Who: Laurier Edition.
We’ve gathered quirky facts, travel tales, and unexpected hobbies from Laurier professors and staff. During the game, you’ll hear each clue, like “Who once backpacked across Europe?” or “Who used to be in a rock band?”, and your team will have to guess which familiar face it belongs to.
This event is a perfect chance to meet new people, connect with faculty in a relaxed setting, and start the semester with a few laughs.
Bingo at The Belmont
Thursday, Jan. 15
7 to 9 p.m.
The Belmont (One Market)
Open to all students
Feel the thrill of bingo with Hawk Team at The Belmont! Experience fast-paced games, plenty of laughs, and exciting prizes. Whether you’re a seasoned player or trying bingo for the first time, it’s a night you won’t want to miss!
Write to Wellness
Monday, Jan. 12
1 to 2 p.m.
Zoom | Registration Required
Open to all students
Take a mindful pause with the Peer Wellness Educators. This workshop will introduce journaling as a simple but effective way to reduce stress, practice gratitude, boost self-awareness, and bring more focus and productivity to your day. We'll share different journaling techniques and prompts. This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate. Register in advance.
Taking Charge of Your Wellness
Tuesday, Jan. 13
5 to 6 p.m.
Zoom | Registration Required
Open to all students
Learn about holistic wellness and how you can take a proactive, preventative approach to build wellness in each of the seven dimensions of wellness. This workshop is the core workshop required to complete our Wellness Education Certificate!
Write to Wellness
Monday, Jan. 12
1 to 2 p.m.
Zoom | Registration Required
Open to all students
Take a mindful pause with the Peer Wellness Educators. This workshop will introduce journaling as a simple but effective way to reduce stress, practice gratitude, boost self-awareness, and bring more focus and productivity to your day. We'll share different journaling techniques and prompts. This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate. Register in advance.
LOCUS Cozy Creations: Scarf-Making
Tuesday, Jan. 13
1:30 to 3 p.m.
TBD | Registration Required
Open to first-year Laurier Off-Campus University Students (LOCUS)
It's time to get creative! Join us to hand-knit a cozy scarf to carry with you throughout the winter. We'll have yarn in a variety of colours. Make sure you register in advance!
Taking Charge of Your Wellness
Tuesday, Jan. 13
5 to 6 p.m.
Zoom | Registration Required
Open to all students
Learn about holistic wellness and how you can take a proactive, preventative approach to build wellness in each of the seven dimensions of wellness. This workshop is the core workshop required to complete our Wellness Education Certificate!
MTS Winter Social: DIY Vision Board
Tuesday, Jan. 13
6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
P111 (1st Floor Peters Building)
Open to Mature and Transfer Students
Calling all new and returning Mature and Transfer Students! Manifest your winter semester with the Student Experience team! Drop by for pizza and create a board that captures your goals, vibes and hopes for the term!
Fresh Food Market with Food Bank
Wednesday, Jan. 14
Noon to 4 p.m.
The Concourse
Open to all students
As part of our commitment to supporting all undergraduate students at Laurier, the Students' Union Food Bank is pleased to bring back the Fresh Food Market!
Whether you want a snack before class or want to take some food home, be sure to stop by our booth! We will be open while supplies last.
Cereal Breakfast Bar
Wednesday, Jan. 14
12:30 to 2 p.m.
The Concourse
Open to all students
Swing by for a free bowl of cereal! Choose from an assortment of cereals and milk, mix and match however you like, and enjoy a simple treat! Brought to you from your Student Experience team
Board Game Night
Wednesday, Jan. 14
4 to 6 p.m.
Wilf's Restaurant
Open to all international and exchange students
Join us for a Board Game Night and meet other international students over some friendly competition. Drop in, make new connections, and enjoy a chill evening together! Food and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided.
Wilf's Trivia
Wednesday, Jan. 14
8:30 to 10:30 p.m.
Wilf's Restaurant
Open to all students
Join our host, Danny, at our weekly trivia nights in Wilf's. Make sure you grab some friends and some food to enjoy the evening. We'll test your knowledge on different themes each week!
Ice Skating with LOCUS
Thursday, Jan. 15
2 to 6 p.m.
Waterloo Public Square (75 King St. S., Waterloo)
Open to first-year Laurier Off-Campus University Students (LOCUS) | Registration required.
Join LOCUS on the ice! Whether you are a pro or this is your first time, come out for a chance to get to know people and spend some time on skates.
We are covering free skate rentals for the first 20 students who register (Skate rentals are $15 per person). You are also encouraged to bring your own skates if you have them! Make sure you register by Monday, January 12!
Make and Take Mason Jar Meals: Overnight Oats
Thursday, Jan. 15
3 to 4 p.m.
P119 (1st Floor Peters Building) | Registration required.
Open all students
Join us to make a mason jar meal and collect a free $25 grocery gift card! We will connect and learn about food, nutrition, food security, meal preparation, and resources on campus. You will take away a meal with you to help you stay nourished! There will be vegan, gluten-free, and halal options available. There are limited spots, so please register in advance. This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate.
Write to Wellness
Monday, Jan. 12
1 to 2 p.m.
Zoom | Registration Required
Open to all students
Take a mindful pause with the Peer Wellness Educators. This workshop will introduce journaling as a simple but effective way to reduce stress, practice gratitude, boost self-awareness, and bring more focus and productivity to your day. We'll share different journaling techniques and prompts. This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate. Register in advance.
Taking Charge of Your Wellness
Tuesday, Jan. 13
5 to 6 p.m.
Zoom | Registration Required
Open to all students
Learn about holistic wellness and how you can take a proactive, preventative approach to build wellness in each of the seven dimensions of wellness. This workshop is the core workshop required to complete our Wellness Education Certificate!
Jan. 19 to 23
Glow Your Own Way: Craft Your Own Candle
Monday, Jan. 19
12 to 3 p.m.
Level 1 Lounge - Nook (One Market)
Open to first-year Laurier Off-Campus University Students (LOCUS)
Light up your winter with a cozy, hands-on candle-making experience! Choose your favourite scents, colours, and trinkets to craft a candle that’s totally you. Come relax, get creative, and take home something warm to brighten your space. Supplies are provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
Second Breakfast
Wednesday, Jan. 21
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Level 1 Lounge (One Market)
Open all students
Join the Student Experience team and friends for an amazing brunch, or as Hobbits say, Second Breakfast! Dine at our cereal bar, grab a Pop-Tart, and more while watching The Lord of the Rings! Engage in casual fantasy hobby activities like map-making and maybe even get a free set of dice.
Cereal Breakfast Bar
Tuesday, Jan. 20
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Student Commons Lounge
Open all students
Build your perfect bowl at our cereal bar! Mix and match cereals, toppings, and milk for a fun and tasty treat.
Friendship Bracelet Making
Thursday, Jan. 22
9:30 a.m. to when supplies run out
Student Commons Lounge
Open all students
Join us for a fun and creative friendship-bracelet-making session! Craft colorful, personalized bracelets to share with your new friends or keep as a memory. All supplies provided, just bring your creativity and good vibes.
Snow Globe Making
Tuesday, Jan. 20
1 to 2 p.m.
P111 (First Floor Peters Building)
Open all students
We're bringing a little winter magic to campus! Join us to make your own mini snow globe to take home. All supplies will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
Wellness Trivia and Snacks
Tuesday, Jan. 20
1 to 3 p.m.
Lazaridis Hall Atrium
Open all students
Drop by, spin the wheel, and test your knowledge on all things wellness. Snacks, swag, and prizes to be won! Have a question about staying well at Laurier? Ask the Peer Wellness Educators!
International Snacks Night
Wednesday, Jan. 21
4 to 6 p.m.
TBD
Open all students
Craving something tasty and unique? Join us for International Snacks Night, where you can sample delicious treats from around the world! Test your knowledge with our “Guess the Country by Emojis” game and see how well you know global snacks and cultures.
Wilf's Trivia
Wednesday, Jan. 21
8:30 to 10:30 p.m.
Wilf's Restaurant
Open to all students
Join our host, Danny, at our weekly trivia nights in Wilf's. Make sure you grab some friends and some food to enjoy the evening. We'll test your knowledge on different themes each week!
Paints, Plants, and Peers
Thursday, Jan. 22
1 to 2 p.m.
P111 (First Floor Peters Building)
Open all students
Come get creative with the Peer Wellness Educators! Take an hour to de-stress by painting a clay pot and getting to know your peers. At the end of the event, you'll get a tropical plant to take home in your newly decorated pot! Plants can boost your well-being in several ways, such as improving your indoor air quality and providing a sense of joy and purpose. Spaces are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Snacks provided!
Game On with LOCUS
Thursday, Jan. 22
2:30 to 4 p.m.
MacDonald House 24 Lounge
Open to first-year Laurier Off-Campus University Students (LOCUS)
It's game time! Join us for an afternoon of video party games and board games! If you're looking to hang out and meet some new people while playing games and eating snacks, this is the place for you to be! This event is hosted by the Gaming Link. Check out our Join a LOCUS Link! section to learn more.
Jan. 26 to 30
Opposite Day
Tuesday, Jan. 27
2 to 4 p.m.
Level 1 Lounge (One Market)
Open all students
Join us for opposite trivia, Pool and other table games with opposite rules and an amazing opposite-themed grand prize! Hope you are ready to have an awful time!
De-stress with Dogs
Wednesday, Jan. 28
1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
TBD
Open all students
Take a break and join us for our 'De-stress with Dogs' event tailored just for you. Spend quality time with these adorable therapy dogs, pet away your worries, and find some time to relax. Don't miss this paw-some opportunity to de-stress and recharge!
Friendship Bracelet Making
Monday, Jan. 26
Noon to 2 p.m.
P111 (First Floor Peters Building)
Open all students
Looking for a fun, relaxing break? Join us for friendship bracelet making! Choose your favourite colours and take home a little piece of creativity, or gift it to a friend! Supplies will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
Managing Stress and Building Resilience
Tuesday, Jan. 27
3 to 4 p.m.
P111 (First Floor Peters Building) | Registration required.
Open all students
Everyone experiences stress; what matters is learning how to manage it, so it doesn’t overwhelm your life. Resilience is a skill anyone can develop, helping you recover more quickly from challenges. In this workshop, you’ll explore how the stress response works, understand how to become more resilient, and learn practical strategies to manage stress to feel calmer and more capable. This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate. Register in advance.
Wilf's Trivia
Wednesday, Jan. 28
8:30 to 10:30 p.m.
Wilf's Restaurant
Open to all students
Join our host, Danny, at our weekly trivia nights in Wilf's. Make sure you grab some friends and some food to enjoy the evening. We'll test your knowledge on different themes each week!
Matcha and Mindfulness
Thursday, Jan. 29
1 to 2:30 p.m.
The Concourse
Open all students
Stop by our concourse booth and enjoy a cup of hot matcha! The Peer Wellness Educators will be sharing information about caffeine, mental health, and how small, mindful habits, and soothing rituals can bring balance to a busy student life.