Otonabee College
Welcome to Otonabee College
Otonabee is an Anishinaabe word for "river that beats like a heart" which symbolizes the way this college looks to the horizon and imagines ways of keeping up with a fast-paced life while honouring the heart. Community life here is both social and academic.
The curious spirit of the college is fueled by sciences like biology and computing, that help to ask questions about how things work under a microscope or on mathematical level, while social sciences lead to a closer examination of complex dynamics between people.
Whether it is understanding human rights, caring for people who are sick, educating the next generation, or using forensics to unlock important mysteries, Otonabee is a place that seeks new insight and is change-oriented. Students in all academic disciplines are welcome in the college, where we value the crosspollination of ideas through interdisciplinary study.
As the largest of the five colleges at Trent University, OC was established in 1972 and is located on the campus’ east bank overlooking the river for which it is named. Indigenous ways of knowing were a part of the founding of the college, which is why our crest continues to feature the medicine wheel. Similarly, the adjoining science complex and DNA building have a significant influence on the heartbeat of our community.
Otonabee is built on the central importance of strong communities and engaging activities that enhance the student experience. Many commuting students think of Otonabee as their home away from home, including K-House, which is specifically for first year students who live off campus. Our residences, spread through eight different houses, provide an immersive learning experience for students who are living away from home.
The OC residences also house the Nursing Living Learning Centre, a unique community where like-minded students have an instant connection with peers who have similar interests and academic experiences. Members of this community have opportunities to connect with faculty, create their own activities and events together, and participate in community outreach initiatives.
Otonabee is the proud initiator of several annual events that span all of the colleges, including the East vs. West hockey game, and the Last Lecture for graduating students. Throughout the year, we host a range of events that promote academic engagement, co-curricular learning and lighthearted social activities – there’s something for everyone!
The OC Commons is a casual place to hang out between classes – a great place to study or to connect with friends. It’s located directly above the college office and also houses the office of the college cabinet, your elected student government. Close by, you’ll also find our recently renovated cafeteria that features made to order hot food, convenient gab-and-go options, and a Tim Hortons.
The Centre for Academic Testing, and the Centre for Human Rights, Equity and Accessibility are both housed in our college. Of course, we’re also home to many faculty offices, academic departments and classrooms.