Ryerson University

Location

Ryerson University is located in the busiest locality of downtown Toronto. The campus surrounds Yonge-Dundas Square. Capital of Ontario, Canada and is the largest city in Canada. The University is housed in a perfect location because Toronto is the center of all media production houses and media networks while its economy is very diverse in technology, design, financial services, education, arts, fashion, business, etc. Although it is in the heart of downtown, it may not be completely safe. It is important to take security measures and be careful. Ironically, such a great location may even serve as a fallout for the campus because students are mostly distracted. They have so much to explore outside campus, that the campus goes neglected.

Campus

The University is spread across 121 acres. At the heart of the university, is a pedestrian area along Victoria Streets, it is known as Ryerson Square. There is a Devonian Square which has park owned by the university but maintained by the state...large campus expansion where they have properties across Toronto including Yonge Street, Jarvis Street, Dundas Street, etc. Mattamy Athletic Centre (lying in the historic Maple Leaf Gardens arena) in the university having a full size basketball and volleyball courts, cardio center, fitness centre, etc.
The 11-storey Ryerson Library consists over 5 lakh books and over 3000 print titles, 90,000 e books etc. but an elevator that takes forever to be at your service. It is an example of Brutalist architecture. It also holds administrative offices, urban and regional planning offices, graduate reading room, lounges and LCD panels. All the buildings are a few decades old but look brand new as the maintenance is very well done.

Residing Options

Designed to accommodate approximately 852 students, there are three categories of Ryerson residences: Pitman Hall, O’Keefe House and International Living and Learning Centre. 90% of the students commute from off-campus.  Dorms are basic with air-conditioning, clock radio, private bathroom, Wi-Fi is available in public lounges. These are also places well close to the academic sections. In most cases, meals are included in the total cost. But the accommodation is limited hence one may have to be quick or find something off-campus. A private residential lease is at least for one year. Short-term lease is more difficult to arrange. Most landlords ask for all the rent upfront. Off-campus housing may cost upwards of $750 per month.

Faculty

The faculty to student ratio is 1:3. Its business degree being taught under Ted Rogers School of Management housed in the new Business Building is known to be an upcoming hit. Ryerson is known to have highest rejection rate, and is very difficult to get in. Once you are in, the academics keep you busy. Professors may even know you by your name and are available to help students in the office hours. Professors may even understand social anxiety and not call you out or force you to speak in class. Popular professors on campus are Majed Alqasas (Mathematics), Jonathan Wong (Graphics Art), Sam Lampropoulos (Business), David Reville (Human Development), etc.