As 2025 draws to a close, we’re looking back on the most-read stories from University of Toronto Magazine. From a playful exploration of Canadian identity to a quietly moving narrative about communication, to the problem of attention in a distracted age, these stories helped us think about who we are and how we connect. If you missed them the first time around, here’s a chance to revisit – or discover – the magazine stories that resonated most this year.
1. From rink rats to bunny hugs
Whether you’re a born-and-bred Canadian or a newcomer who’s still mastering local slang, this interactive quiz explores the quirky regional expressions that add flavour to Canadian English. Drawn from years of linguistic research by Prof. Sali Tagliamonte, the quiz isn’t just a test of vocabulary – it celebrates how language reflects place.
2. Wes Hall’s extraordinary journey
In this inspiring profile, Wes Hall, U of T’s 35th chancellor, shares how he rose from humble beginnings in rural Jamaica to become a business leader, philanthropist and agent of change. Along the way, Hall credits resilience, community and the example of his grandmother for shaping his drive to uplift others.
3. When words won’t cooperate
This deeply human story goes inside groundbreaking research on non-speaking autism, exploring how people who don’t use spoken language can nonetheless have rich inner lives and complex cognition. Through the experiences of Isaiah Grewal and the neuroscience lab of Prof. Morgan Barense, the article challenges assumptions about speech and intellect.
4. Staying focused in a world full of distractions
In an era of constant digital noise, “Can I have your attention, please,” offers timely insights into the science of attention. Drawing on research by Prof. Michael Inzlicht, the story explores why focus often feels elusive and the strategies that can help us reclaim our capacity to concentrate.
5. The hidden risks of expanding medical assistance in dying
This thoughtful opinion piece by Profs. Trudo Lemmens and Sonu Gaind tackles one of the most complex ethical debates in Canada today: the expansion of medical assistance in dying (MAID). It explores the potential risks for vulnerable populations and urges readers to balance compassion with caution. By grounding the discussion in real-world implications and ethical considerations, the essay invites a deeper conversation about the kind of society we want to live in.
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