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Laurier Off-Campus University Students

Whether you commute from out of town, live with family, or moved to off-campus student housing, the Laurier Off-Campus University Students (LOCUS) program is here to connect you to the campus community. 

The LOCUS program at our Brantford, Milton and Waterloo campuses work specifically to support our first-year off-campus students (including mature and transfer students) with events, upper-year student mentors and provide opportunities to get involved.

About LOCUS

The LOCUS program is a free program for all first-year off-campus students and provides academic, social, and personal support to ensure that they do not miss Laurier’s on-campus experience.

Just like a residence floor has a Residence Don to guide and mentor their first-year students, off-campus first year students have Off-Campus Advisors (OCA).

OCAs are upper-year Laurier students who host regular programming opportunities and are available to answer any questions you may have such as those related to:

  • the Laurier student experience
  • academics and campus resources
  • the city and broader community
  • other general inquiries or specific experiences

OCA’s can also help you navigate life at Laurier, find more opportunities for volunteering, leadership, and fun.

students sitting with LOCUS lynx mascot

A Part of the Lynx Pack

Each residence building and LOCUS are assigned a mascot as part of the FYLP.

The mascot for the LOCUS program is a lynx. When you join LOCUS, we like to say that you have joined the Lynx Pack.

Programs and Events

LOCUS provides a fantastic opportunity for you to meet other off-campus students, learn about Laurier through engaging events, and have a mentor for you to ask about all things Laurier!

Starting in September, our Off-Campus Advisors (OCAs) will facilitate a variety of events throughout the year which will be focused on building connections, meeting new people, academic success, student wellness, and/or getting to know the campus and surrounding community.

We're always looking for event ideas. If there is something that you really want to do during your first year at Laurier, let an OCA know and we'll try to make it happen.

Social

Our social events are focused on helping you build connections, meet other first year students and create lasting friendships.

Some events that we host include game and trivia nights, open gym, karaoke, SkyZone, and fantasy sports. 

Campus and Community Outreach

Discover the city you're living in and connect with various campus groups through events like campus trivia or bingo nights, skating in the community or eating at a local eatery.

Wellness 

Destress and prioritize your well-being with events like yoga and meditation, or cooking classes. The Wellness Education team also hosts events throughout the year to help you maintain your wellness.

Academic

Connect with academic resources and improve your study habits. Study hours and time management sessions will help you stay on top of your studies, while programs like business pitch competitions and Job Hunting 101 enhances your academic experience and helps prepare you for life after Laurier.

Get Involved

There are so many ways to get involved on campus through LOCUS. All LOCUS students will receive reminders to their @mylaurier.ca email account. 

Find us on Instagram @locuslaurier and don't forget to give us a follow!