Winter College Weekend, or Wildside Weekend as it is known in Otonabee College, is the longest standing tradition of Trent’s Colleges – designed to engage students in outdoor winter activities.

This year, the tradition continued –  with a twist –  as Trent’s East Bank colleges, Gzowski and Otonabee, came together to host a variety of virtual events to help students connect with their collegiate communities, and each other.

“When planning this weekend, we really wanted to focus on bringing our community together and help students build connections,” shares Meaghan Kemp, a second-year Forensic Science and Biology student and Otonabee College’s off-campus representative. “We decided to collaborate with Gzowski for events to build the East Bank love we have. Everyone who came had a blast and we were able to help people build friendships both in OC and the rest of Trent.”

Building connection, virtually

Thanks to the introduction of virtual events this year – everything from a virtual bonfire and a virtual lip-sync battle to speed friending – students also had the opportunity to work together, meet, and compete with their neighbouring College.

"Attending Pictionary, one of Gzowski's College Weekend events, was a great way to de-stress and take my mind off of all the assignments and tests I have to do as we're almost done this semester,” says Jaden Gray, member of Gzowski College. “It was definitely a lot of fun and a great event. Thanks to all those who planned such amazing events!"

“I loved the events put on by the Otonabee College Cabinet and was especially fond of this year’s Wildside Weekend,” shares Misti Noel, a first-year Otonabee College student in Forensic Science. “Despite the current limitations, the team did a great job providing various fun activities and making us feel connected with our college community. My favourite event was the Sherlock Escape Room, and I hope we can do another one like it in the future!”

A collegiate future

As this academic year comes to a close, Ms. Kemp is already looking to the future: “We hope that through Wildside events, students will feel encouraged to come out again when we can have in-person events and get involved in their College community.”

Learn more about the collegiate experience at Trent.