We are thankful to be welcome on these lands in friendship. The lands we are situated on are covered by the Williams Treaties and are the traditional territory of the Mississaugas, a branch of the greater Anishinaabeg Nation, including Algonquin, Ojibway, Odawa and Pottawatomi. These lands remain home to many Indigenous nations and peoples.

We acknowledge this land out of respect for the Indigenous nations who have cared for Turtle Island, also called North America, from before the arrival of settler peoples until this day. Most importantly, we acknowledge that the history of these lands has been tainted by poor treatment and a lack of friendship with the First Nations who call them home.

This history is something we are all affected by because we are all treaty people in Canada. We all have a shared history to reflect on, and each of us is affected by this history in different ways. Our past defines our present, but if we move forward as friends and allies, then it does not have to define our future.

Learn more about Indigenous Education and Cultural Services

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Celebrating grad in Ontario Tech style

By Rachel Lynds
Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science Class of 2021

To all the 2021 grads out there, I bid to you congratulations! Completing educational goals no matter how big or small they may seem, is an impressive feat. Given the situation we find ourselves in (you know, that pesky global pandemic) you’re likely finding yourself sans fanfare and celebration.

Right now we’re all doing the best we can with what we’ve got, and I mean that in the most literal and figurative senses. Although there may not be that moment when you walk across the stage and strike your best pose (unless you create that experience at home like Roger), you can still live it up. Below I’ve outlined a series of ways to toot your own proverbial horn and give yourself a pat on the back for all your hard work.

Yard Signs

Since the start of the pandemic, yard signs have been a trendy celebration tool. It’s understated and easily removable for when your graduation glow fades but still flashy enough to let everyone know that you worked your butt off. You may even get honks or cheers from passers-by!

Luckily, there’s no DIY necessary because Ontario Tech sends these out as part of their gift to grads.

Window Signs

For those who have time and patience, window decals are a fun and customizable way to advertise your accomplishment. Trust me when I say it needs TIME and PATIENCE. The photo above is of the front window at my parents’ house – can you tell they’re excited too?

Wondering how I got this cool custom sticker? Check out this Oshawa small business on Instagram that accepts custom orders.

If you have your own Cricut machine you can easily DIY this on your own!

Photoshoot Extravaganza

This one is pretty easy and basically free. All you need is a smartphone or a camera, your favourite outfit (that one that makes you feel happy and confident) and a spot with good lighting. If you’ve got someone who can be your stand-in photographer and hype person, that’s even better.

Bonus if you have extra supplies like balloons or streamers to liven it up. Double bonus if you’ve got awesome orange and blue accessories. If you’re feeling crafty, you could also make a custom frame for a personal touch. Don’t forget to post your photos on social media with #OntarioTechGrad!

Updated Handprints

If you have a craft featuring your handprints or footprints from your childhood, you can add an update to mark this major milestone. Chances are you may not have clay lying around the house, but an easy fix for that would be to make your own salt dough. It’s pretty easy and if you’re making a whole batch, consider making custom ornaments or keepsakes for your loved ones!

Custom Digital Wallpaper

Celebrate yourself by making a custom phone background or computer wallpaper. Use pictures from your photoshoot extravaganza or of your time during school. Let your imagination take hold and make a collage or artsy edit. Lots of free programs like Canva exist to help you make a custom digital project. Share it with your loved ones too, and every time they use their device they’ll smile and think of you.

Not feeling like a graphic designer? Use the Ontario Tech Grad AR filters and stickers on Facebook and Instagram!

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