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.
Summer Academic Orientation (SAO)
Available between June - August (virtual)
Learn about your program, course registration, and the many resources available to support you.
Community 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
Language 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!
SmartStart: 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
SmartStart: 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
What students are saying about Western Launch
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
"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."