York's RED Zone officially opened for business on May 1 and is once again welcoming newly admitted students. The RED Zone helps new students get ready for, involved in and oriented to their first year of university life at York.
A transitional program, York's RED Zone is designed to work in concert with the advising offices to help the newcomers. Students and their families are encouraged to visit the RED Zone on the same day as their scheduled advising and enrolment appointments (or on another day if they prefer) to find out about YU-card student photo identification, Passport York computer accounts, scholarships and financial aid, parking and transportation, campus safety and security and career support.
Students are also invited to explore opportunities to get involved in campus life through academic and social orientation, the colleges, sport and recreation, student clubs and leadership opportunities. Parent-specific resources are also available in the RED Zone.
Left: The comfortable RED zone offers student- and parent-specific resources designed to help students adapt to life at the University
"York’s RED Zone itself is designed around the three themes: Ready, Engage and Discover. Visitors are greeted by RED Zone student ambassadors whose extensive knowledge of our campus and its resources serves to guide students through a wealth of information that will help them make a successful transition to life at York," says Brian Poser, manager, student success and retention. "It is our goal that students will leave the zone feeling ready for what lies ahead, enthusiastic about the many ways to get involved in student life, and more knowledgeable about the great things that await them at York."
Right: York student ambassadors in the RED Zone
RED Zone provides a casual atmosphere for students and families to learn about the University enhanced by a behind-the-scenes tour of York, some Las Nubes coffee, a "slice of the RED Zone" pizza lunch and a chance to spin the trivia wheel to learn fun facts about York and win prizes. "We acknowledge that the process of getting set for university can be a stressful experience and we want to ease the process by making the RED Zone a fun learning environment," says Poser.
Staff and faculty are invited to attend an open house on Tuesday, May 8, from 10am to 3pm. Opening remarks will be given by Sylvia Schippke, assistant vice-president, Student Community Development, at 11am. York’s RED Zone is located in the Complex 1 Computer Lounge (room 034 Founders College) and is open to serve students Monday to Friday, 10am to 3pm from May 1 to late August.
For more information, contact Poser at ext. 44125, or e-mail bposer@yorku.ca.