What I Looked For
Choosing the right school can be challenging, especially when you have specific ideas in mind. For me, my future school had to offer strong academics, outdoor access, vibrant student life, and a welcoming atmosphere.
I wanted a place where I could grow academically and personally. Fortunately, I found all that and more at Bishop’s University.
Memories and Expectations
Despite having visited the Eastern Townships many times in my childhood, I had never heard of Bishop’s. My grandparents lived in the area for years before they moved, and I have many fond memories of visiting them. I remember how I enjoyed those moments with my family and the beautiful scenery of the region.
As a Quebec francophone whose wish was to study in English and stay in Quebec, I thought that my university options were somewhat limited. So, when my dad suggested looking into Bishop’s, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I explored the website, read countless student stories, and chose Bishop’s because it felt like the right fit.
Visiting and (Re-)Discovering
Since I could not attend the Open House to visit the campus, I decided to make the trip with my parents and walk around with them. I soon saw that the University, which is coincidentally not far from my grandparents’ old house, is also a place that made me feel like the vision that I had for my future school would come to life. Seeing the small classes, active clubs, and close-knit community, I knew I’d belong at Bishop’s.
In a sense, coming back to the Townships has been a way for me to relive some of my childhood memories, and create new ones surrounded by my newfound community. Moving to a new place and studying in a second language can be intimidating, but I quickly discovered that Bishop’s students are incredibly friendly and supportive.
Connecting with Others
Starting university can feel overwhelming, but getting involved in campus activities can make all the difference. Attending school events, which we have a lot of, has helped me meet new people and form friendships that continue to grow.
Another great way to connect with others is by joining student clubs. B.U. offers a variety of clubs and organizations, so there’s something for everyone. As an outdoor enthusiast, I joined the B.U. Outdoors Club and the Rowing Club, both of which have given me amazing experiences and opportunities, but there are still many more clubs that I wish I had the time to try!
One of the advantages of attending a small university is that it’s easy to keep in touch with the people that you meet. You will probably see familiar faces around campus daily, which makes it easy to connect and organize activities with them.
Teacher Friendliness
The incredibly supportive community that I discovered here is what makes it so special. Not only are the students friendly and welcoming, but professors and faculty members are approachable and always willing to help.
I was pleasantly surprised to find that I could easily reach out to my professors and just discuss with them. In my experience, building those relationships has been a way to stay engaged and on top of my studies, as the teachers genuinely care about their students’ success. I’ve learned that asking for help is key to making the most of the university experience. There’s no need to navigate everything on your own!
Final Thoughts
Looking back on my university journey so far, I’m incredibly grateful that I chose Bishop’s University. It has given me a strong education, lifelong friendships, and a welcoming community that feels like home. For anyone considering Bishop’s, I encourage you to explore and take advantage of all it has to offer, you just might find your perfect fit!
