At this point, you are most likely packing, saying goodbye to friends, and promising your parents you'll call them every week. It is most definitely an anxious time in your life. You may have traveled prior to this, or you may be coming straight out of high school. You might have some university experience under your belt already. No matter what your background, you are heading towards an exciting new experience. And you are going to experience an amazing residential culture that will enrich and guide you through your university years.
Allow me to quickly introduce myself. My name's Liam. I went to Trent from 2005-2009, and was a Champlainer from my second year to my last. I came into Trent not really knowing what to expect, as a timid 17 year old. Knowing only two other guys from my high school, it was in no way a familiar place. However over the years I met amazing people, learned and laughed and grew. Champlain was a home, and I proudly wear my Champlain patch on my backpack as I walk around UBC's campus in Vancouver.
Bon Temps, February 2009
But enough about me! You are heading toward a great experience. You may be feeling pangs of anxiety, wondering about if you'll meet any friends, or if you'll be able to pass your courses. While this may be a scary time, take comfort in knowing there are hundreds of other students in your shoes! You'll be greeted by upper year students who are just waiting to get to know you and show you around for the first week of Introductory Seminar Week (ISW). Once you get settled into your room, take a few minutes to wander around the residence and meet your floor mates. You will get to know these people very well over the next month, and many of them will become great, life long friends! Moments like these often call for taking a deep, deep breath before taking the plunge into a brand new experience. As long as you carry an open mind and a friendly smile, you will soon find that good friends will surround you no matter where you are on campus.
As for the academics - there are three ground rules you should follow to make the grade:
1. do your readings
2. hand everything thing in on time
3. go to every class and seminar
If you make sure you are doing these three things, you're well on your way! Make sure you take advantage of Trent's small class sizes too. This allows you to get to know your profs and T.A.s by name and vice-versa. Take advantage of their office hours to go over papers and the weeks readings when you are stuck.
While at Champlain, you'll have ample opportunity for getting involved in the community. There are so many things to do campus and college wide, so jump in and try something new! Joining a club, organization, or student government is one of the best ways to establish yourself and meet new friends. The more things you try, the more tied to Champlain and Trent you'll be. Take my word, this is a very special place, and I hope you love it just as much as I do. The friends you make and the stories you tell will be ones to remember for years to come.
Broomball Tournament at Bontemps, February 2009
A new adventure is waiting for you, so as you get ready to travel up highway 7 or the 115, take a deep breath, and get ready! Your ISW staff are getting ready to welcome you to the great Champlain College. So welcome to the jungle, 'aint no place like it.
Champlain Beach, 2006
Nice post Liam! Thanks. Hope all's well out there way out west. Say Hi to Tim Shah if you guys cross paths at UBC. And come visit Champlain. Often. Best, Mike
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