Ready, Set, Launch.

Join us this summer to launch into your Western adventure with confidence.

Each program listed below is entirely free and we encourage you to learn about each of them to discover how they can help prepare you for university. Whether you engage in just one or all five, we're here to help every step of the way.

AA-tile.pngSummer Academic Orientation (SAO)

Available between June - August (virtual)

Learn about your program, course registration, and the many resources available to support you.

Learn more about SAO


CC-tile.pngCommunity Connections

Multiple dates available between July 14 - August 12 (in-person)

Join us for a FREE one- or two-day experience on campus to meet peers in your faculty, discover your individual strengths, and connect with key services at Western.

Choose the overnight option and stay in a Western residence!

LEARN MORE ABOUT Community Connections


Student in Western sweatshirt smiles for the cameraLanguage in Culture Series (LinCS)

July 18 & 19 (virtual)

Learn how to read and write in a university setting.

This program was developed for incoming international students, but all students are welcome!

LEARN MORE ABOUT LinCS


Students on laptops study outside on campusSmartStart: Academics

Available throughout August (virtual)

Connect with peers and review key concepts from high school courses that you'll need to succeed in your first-year courses.

LEARN MORE ABOUT SmartStart: Academics


SAO_tile-415x300.pngSmartStart: Learning

Available anytime (virtual)

Build the skills needed for university learning.

LEARN MORE ABOUT SmartStart: Learning


More ways to engage once you arrive in September

Attend Orientation

Attending Orientation programming is a great way to get connected to the Western community. Stay tuned for more information!

Join a Mentorship Program

Western offers a wide variety of mentorship programs to help support your academic and social transition into university. Find the right fit for you!


What students are saying about Western Launch

Emma Dorval holding hands up in a W for Western

Emma Dorval

"Summer Academic Orientation helped me to feel secure in my course selections and eased my worries about coming to University. Speaking with an SAO Leader made me feel prepared and excited to begin classes in September!"

Sharon Sun

Sharon Sun

"I’ve had the opportunity to work with fellow student leaders last year on Community Connections, and it was really wonderful to see some of the incoming first years before they start school. Community Connections is a great program for students to get acquainted with the campus, community, and connect with Western as a whole, and presents a great chance to build some friendships early on."