Gryphons have it pretty good
As a student at the University of Guelph, you may not know it yet, but you are lucky. Not only are you lucky enough to have the opportunity to pursue post-secondary education, but you are also about to do so at one of the top universities in the country.
The University of Guelph has a reputation for quality research in several fields study, including the Ontario Agricultural College and Ontario Veterinary College, as well as ranking fifth out of all comprehensive Canadian universities by Maclean’s magazine for 2016. According to Maclean’s, “Guelph attracts more research money than any other university without a medical school,” and holds the number one spot for student satisfaction—so they must be doing something right.
With a growing population of approximately 23,000, students continue to choose Guelph not solely for its academic reputation, but also for its everyday perks.
With the campus located in Guelph, students become part of a small-town community and can still enjoy some of the luxuries of a bigger city. Surrounded by the Arboretum’s green space and a number of historical and new state-of-the-art buildings, the campus offers a great environment to learn and be social. The cultural hub of Downtown Guelph is only a short distance away, with events happening almost daily and no shortage of bars and restaurants.
Guelph also lives up to its title as “Canada’s food university,” and not just because of its groundbreaking food sciences sector. The quality and variety of on-campus food options available to students is unlike any other university in the country. From the endless choices at Creelman Marketplace to some gourmet dining at PJ’s Restaurant, there’s something to satisfy everyone. You can even find some good eats at the residence dining halls—a rarity among most universities.
Last year, Guelph’s first food truck, Gryph N’ Grille, debuted on campus, offering the traditional burger and fries, as well as pulled pork and poutine. This fall, a second food truck, the Caffeine Canteen, will be brewing up their own blend of Planet Bean coffee, as well as fresh scones, muffins, breakfast sandwiches, and more, according to a news release on the University’s website.
Your University of Guelph student card also gets you a number of perks from local businesses and organizations looking to attract the student customer base. By presenting your student card, you can receive all kinds of discounts throughout the city—from books, to haircuts, to burritos.
The universal bus pass is also a huge perk for students who need and use it often. While the fee is included in tuition, it is significantly reduced from the regular $80 monthly bus pass. However, students who drive, commute from out of town, or do not use Guelph Transit are unable to opt-out of the bus pass and have to pay for it in their tuition.
But there are other perks to look forward to, even after you graduate. After graduation, you can order a free alumni card that can get you discounts on insurance, sporting events, restaurants, and more. You also have unlimited free access to the University’s library and Career Services, as well as membership deals at the Athletics Centre.
So wear your metaphorical U of G badge with pride, because once a Gryphon, always a Gryphon!