My first year was filled with many exciting experiences. Honestly, I wasn’t very nervous because I had spent months preparing myself mentally, treating the move as a leap of faith. That perspective helped ease much of the anxiety. Having friends who were also trying to figure everything out made the transition easier, and together we learned as we went. New Student Orientation Week and residence life made it especially easy to meet people and build friendships. Late-night study sessions, group dinners in The Landing, and everyday moments quickly became some of my favourite memories. One moment that stands out was a karaoke night at the dining centre, where a group of us pushed tables together and spent the evening eating, laughing, and singing. It felt like a family gathering far from home.

Beyond residence life, campus events, trips downtown, and movie nights encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone and form meaningful connections. Even classes became places where friendships naturally developed. Sometimes simply sitting beside the same person every lecture turned into a lasting friendship, and having study partners made university life much easier!

What I have enjoyed most is the freedom to customize my own experience. The University of Calgary has given me space to grow, discover new interests, and gain confidence in myself. Along the way, I learned that I enjoy connecting with people more than I thought and that I am capable of thriving in unfamiliar situations. Looking back, studying at UCalgary has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, and the memories and friendships I have made will stay with me long after graduation. Hopefully, your journey will be just as meaningful, if not even better! 

Academically, I began in the Haskayne School of Business, where introductory courses gave me insight into the field and strengthened my interest in the Bachelor of Commerce. While I enjoyed the content and looked forward to specialising in International Business, by the end of my second year I realised I wanted a stronger international focus. My interest in global cultures, societies, and world affairs led me to International Relations. Thanks to the support and flexibility available with advising, making the switch to the Faculty of Arts was straightforward. The program has been a great change, allowing me to explore topics ranging from global development and geography to languages and history while still drawing connections to my business background. I appreciate how broad and interconnected the field is, which keeps every semester interesting.

Some of my most memorable experiences have come outside the classroom. Through friends and university programs, I have visited The Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller to see the dinosaur fossils, gone canoeing in Banff and explored the town, attended movie nights and game nights in residence, watched Dinos basketball games, skated at the Olympic Oval, and enjoyed hundreds of side quests around Calgary. Whether it was train rides to the end of the line, picnics by the river, or winning a waffle maker during a residence event, these moments helped make university feel like much more than an academic journey.