Trent University students will be getting to know the campus and the community this fall through Explore the Boro – an interactive scavenger hunt that encourages students to explore Peterborough and uncover new shopping and leisure destinations, and to support local businesses in the downtown area.  

Hosted by Trent University, Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA), and Peterborough & the Kawarthas Tourism (PKT), Explore the Boro features stops at local shops, cafés, and restaurants in the downtown to help orient and connect students with their home away from home. 

"The energy in our city ramps up each fall when Trent students move back to Peterborough. They add so much to the cultural, social, and economic vitality of the city in so many different ways,” said Alison Scholl, senior manager, Community & External Relations at Trent University. “Partnering with the DBIA and PKT to host Explore the Boro is a fun and unique way to help our incoming and returning students get to know and feel at home in Peterborough.” 

Between September 2 and 21, 2023, Trent students can complete a variety of activities at a number of locations downtown and on campus using the Explore the Boro app, to discover their new community and win prizes. The top prize is a $1,250 Boro gift card, which can be used at businesses in downtown Peterborough. Students earn points by completing different missions, like taking selfies at specific shops and landmarks, or answering trivia questions. At the end of the hunt, prize packs and Boro gift cards will be awarded to the three students who earn the most points.  

“The Boro comes alive when Trent students return to the city, with curious minds, and vibrant energy,” said Terry Guiel, executive director, DBIA. “We're thrilled to continue this impactful partnership that creates opportunities for students to discover and re-discover our downtown core and support local businesses." 

With an annual economic impact in Peterborough that represents approximately nine per cent of the local GDP, Trent University is a catalyst for regional prosperity, and social and cultural vitality.  

“We look forward to seeing Trent students back for a new academic year – and seeing all of the ways that they discover their favourite spots in Peterborough & the Kawarthas,” said Joe Rees, director of Tourism for Peterborough & the Kawarthas Tourism. "Students and alumni of Trent University add to the cultural vibrancy, creative collaboration, and collective success of businesses and the community-at-large in the region. Their significant economic influence cannot be emphasized enough, as they occupy pivotal roles that drive our economy. 

For more information about Explore the Boro, visit trentu.ca/exploretheboro.