Finding My Place at Bishop’s
When I first arrived at Bishop’s University four years ago, I had no idea how much the little purple bubble in Lennoxville would change my life. Like most first-years, I moved into residence—Kuehner, to be exact—nervous but excited, knowing not a sole. I met five other girls during Orientation Week, and little did I know, they’d become my roommates for the next three years and some of my best friends. After my first day on campus, I never looked back, I knew I had found my new home. The biggest reason for this was because of how easy I met people, everyone was so friendly and wanted to be friends! That’s the thing about Bishop’s: it has this ability to turn strangers into family.
Community Is Everything
If there’s one word that sums up the Bishop’s experience, it’s community. It’s more than just attending classes or living on campus—it’s the feeling of belonging. Whether you’re joining a club, playing intramurals, or grabbing a coffee at the SUB, there’s always someone you know and someone who knows you. You’re not just a student number here; you’re part of something real. Professors learn your name, and people stop to say hi when they pass you on the quad.
Always Something Happening
One of my favorite things about being a Gaiter is how alive the campus feels. There’s always something going on—Winterfest, HOCO, Fall Fest, or spontaneous hangouts on Optimus Field when the sun shows up! Ski trips to Mount Orford, floating down the Massawipi River in the summer, and study breaks in the quad with friends… Bishop’s has this amazing balance between academics and fun that makes every moment memorable. My all-time favourite event at Bishop’s is Winterfest. Having friends skiing in the quad is amazing, dressing in super fun retro ski clothing, listing to live DJ’s and having this spectacular event that is different from any other university really makes it special.
Bleeding Purple
Ask any Gaiter what their favorite color is, and I guarantee it’s purple. There’s a real pride in being part of Bishop’s that you can feel everywhere—from the merch everyone wears to the packed stands at sports games. It’s a small school with a big heart, and that shows in how fiercely we support each other. Whether it’s cheering on the football team or hyping up a friend’s art show or thesis presentation, we all show up for each other.
More Than Just a Student
Being at Bishop’s has been more than just about earning a degree. It’s about growth. It’s about late-night talks in the house with my friends who I met at Bishop’s, getting involved in intramurals that pushed me out of my comfort zone, such as playing volleyball, and discovering what kind of person I want to be. Bishop’s helped shape that, and I know I’m leaving not just as a graduate but as a more confident, connected, and community-minded person.
Once a Gaiter, Always a Gaiter
As I get ready to toss my grad cap and say goodbye to campus, I know I’ll never really leave Bishop’s behind. The memories, the people, the experiences—they will be with me forever. Being a Gaiter means you carry a little piece of BU wherever you go. It’s something special, and I feel incredibly lucky to have been a part of it.
