Welcome to Renison Student Experience and Housing

Get involved in our vibrant student community!

At Renison University College, we strive to have a dynamic student experience where everyone belongs. 

Our Renison community includes degree students studying in our Social Development Studies program, School of Social Work, Culture and Language Studies courses, as well as our credit-free courses and English Language Institute. We are also proud to have our own Renison Residence, which is centrally located on the University of Waterloo campus and is home each term to more than  residents from all six of Waterloo's faculties.

Renison's residence has become known for its small, intimate, and family-like community of residents making it an ideal place for incoming students adjusting to university life. Come and be a part of the family!

Joining our close-knit community means benefiting from outstanding opportunities for learning and scholarship through an interactive and inclusive environment. Students in residence live in truly a multicultural environment, where they will develop awareness, knowledge and skills for a globalized world. 

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Students celebrating in the Great Hall

What does Renison Student Experience & Housing do?

Renison's Student Experience and Housing helps our students in many ways! 

Access Support

Being part of a smaller community within a larger community is an awesome thing about being at Renison. One-on-one meet-ups and connecting with our team is one example! Your Renison student leaders are here to support you, too!

Get involved

With our events and workshops, student volunteer opportunities, student leadership committee opportunities, there's so many ways to be part of our community!

Feel at home

If you lived at Renison, you would be home by now. Our Renison Residence is home to 214 students at any given time, with wrap-around support to help you adjust to your new surroundings.

Build experience

Whether you're a Peer Leader, Residence Don, Connection Desk Assistant, or a Programs Assistant, there are many paid leadership opportunities at Renison to help you build your skills. 

Find your way

The University of Waterloo can feel like a city within itself! Our Moose Tracks Connection Desk is here to help you with any questions you have about life at Renison and Waterloo -- as well as a place to find a tasty snack.

Student Experience & Housing News

News

The University of Waterloo is celebrating Consent Week this week from September 16 to 20 and we are delighted to announce Renison’s involvement with the Moose Hide Campaign!

Student Events

Events

Friday, October 4, 2024 12:00 pm - 12:15 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

Mid-Day Prayer

Join our Chaplain, Rev. Scott McLeod, for a mid-day prayer in the Anglican Tradition. It is an opportunity to pause, reflect, and contemplate, where all are welcome to participate.

What can you expect?

  • A short prayer led by Scott
  • A chance to step back from the day and reflect

When and where?

Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday!

Monday, October 7, 21, & 29

Wednesday, October 2, 9, 23, & 30

Friday, October 4, 11, & 25

12:00pm - 12:15pm

Chapel of St. Bede

The Moose Hide Campaign is an Indigenous-led grassroots movement dedicated to ending gender-based violence. This nation-wide movement is to spark change in taking action to end violence in our communities. An important element of the Moose Hide Campaign is the visibility of the moose hide pin. Wearing a moose hide pin signifies a commitment to honour, respect, and protect the women and children in our lives and to speak out against gender-based and domestic violence. The pin is a symbol of connection, concern, and solidarity.

What can you expect?

  • A chance to learn about the Moose Hide Campaign and other Indigenous initiatives
  • Reflection and information regarding Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People

When and where?

Monday, September 30

12:30pm – 1:30pm

Renison Cafeteria

Click here to learn about the ways the University of Waterloo honours the lives of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People.

Friday, October 4, 2024 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

Fall Charcuterie Bonfire Party

Autumn is here, and it's time to get cozy! Join dons and peer leaders for an evening of spooky stories, hot chocolate, and savoury treats over the fire!

What can you expect?

  • Meats, cheeses, and crackers to enjoy around the fire
  • Hot chocolate to keep you warm
  • Music and dancing in the courtyard
  • Fun outdoor games to choose from

When and where?

Friday, October 4

8:00pm – 10:00pm

Renison Courtyard