Growing with Confidence

One of the things I've appreciated most about UCalgary is how many people genuinely want to help students succeed. Whether you're studying business, engineering, science, arts, or another program, every faculty has advisors and support staff who are there to help you navigate your university journey.

As a Haskayne student, I've personally met regularly with an Academic Development Specialist to talk through everything from managing my workload to setting realistic goals. Those conversations have become one of my favourite ways to stay organized and reflect on how I'm growing throughout the semester.

Beyond faculty support, the Student Success Centre offers academic coaching, workshops, and writing support to help students build confidence in their skills. If you're taking a math or statistics course, the Math Help Centre is another great resource where you can drop in, ask questions, and work through concepts with teaching assistants in a welcoming environment. And because success looks different for everyone, Student Wellness Services is also there to support students' overall well-being throughout their university journey.

What I love most is that asking for help isn't seen as falling behind, it's simply part of learning. Knowing these resources are available makes it easier to try new things, challenge yourself, and keep growing throughout your degree.

Making Time to Recharge

Wellness also means making time to pause and enjoy campus beyond the classroom.

Some days that might look like attending a Centre for Career and Personal Development (CCPD) Unwind session or grabbing coffee with a friend between classes. Other days, it's as simple as finding a favourite study spot. One of mine is The Atrium during the winter. With the natural light streaming through the glass and snow falling outside, it's one of those places that reminds me to slow down for a few minutes before heading to my next class.

I've learned that taking a short break or spending a few quiet minutes in a space I enjoy helps me return to my work feeling refreshed. Finding those little moments throughout the day has become an important part of creating balance during university.

Building Your Community

If you asked me what has had the biggest impact on my university experience, my answer would be getting involved.

Some of my closest friendships started through volunteering, attending New Student Orientation, or simply striking up conversations with classmates before a lecture. Saying "yes" to opportunities helped campus become more than just a place where I went to class, it became a community that made me feel comfortable an supported!

Volunteering has been especially rewarding. I started as a Campus Tour Guide, which gave me the chance to share my love for UCalgary with prospective students. That experience eventually led to a part-time role with Student Recruitment and later my current co-op position. Looking back, it's amazing how one opportunity opened the door to so many others.

Another community that's especially meaningful to me is Breathe Easy, a student club that promotes holistic wellness. Whether we're hosting guided yoga, meditation, journaling sessions, or Colour & Sip events, I've loved having a space where students can slow down, meet new people, and take a break from their busy schedules. No matter what your interests are, getting involved in clubs, volunteering, or campus events is one of the best ways to build your community.

For future students, my advice to you for finding your balance beyond the classroom once you get here is to say yes to new opportunities, even if they feel a little intimidating at first, and give yourself time to discover what works for you. I started university feeling nervous about putting myself out there, but saying yes helped me build an amazing community, develop new skills, and discover opportunities that made my time at UCalgary even more rewarding. You never know where one opportunity might lead, it could be the perfect place to Start Something! 🦖