“In 1843, the founders of Bishop’s University declared their goal: “to offer the country a sound and liberal education.” Today our goal remains the education of individuals, primarily at the undergraduate level, to develop their talents and realize their leadership potential. Intellectual achievement is crucial to our mission and thus the University promotes academic excellence through an emphasis on teaching enriched by scholarship and research. The Bishop’s experience begins with close interaction between professor and student but extends beyond the classroom to provide the basis for critical thinking and effective communication, while also fostering community spirit and lasting friendships.”
I have chosen to study at Bishop’s University because of its liberal education model. I wanted to have the freedom to learn about subjects that I have had an interest in, but don’t plan on pursuing.
Liberal education is an educational philosophy that exposes students to a wide variety of disciplines and learning strategies. It includes in-depth studies in at least one specific academic area, with the ability to integrate other diverse areas.
Emphasis on Teaching
I love the teaching at Bishop’s. The change in the culture of a school when being taught by teachers who want to teach and are passionate is like night and day. I wish for anybody pursuing whatever level of education to be as fortunate as I have been to have teachers like the ones at Bishop’s.
I am currently taking a Communications course that I did not plan on taking but had to take because I was missing credits. The teacher has made a class I didn’t even want to take, a class that I look forward to attending. This is one of many examples I have for how an emphasis on teaching can impact a students’ educational experience.
Community Spirit
I have attended seven different schools, but none offered the diversity and openness I’ve found in the Bishop’s University student experience.
So, I participated in frosh week and made friends throughout my frosh house. My friends study everything from History to Medicine, giving me a great feel for Bishop’s programs. A flexible schedule also let me join the dance club, where I met even more amazing people.
Lasting Friendships
Since I arrived at Bishop’s, I have been able to meet so many people from around the world thanks to all the international students here. I have made friends from America, different provinces in Canada, South America, Europe, and Asia.
These are memories I’ll never forget—dancing at a cultural potluck, laughing at frosh parties, baking muffins with my French roommate, and watching High School Musical with our South American neighbors during late-night hangouts. My roommate and I still talk and she sends me letters in the mail.
Beyond the Classroom
And it’s not just about the in-school time.After my first year, I worked as a summer camp counselor and often found myself reflecting on what I had learned in Criminology. Concepts like labelling theory helped me better understand the challenges some kids faced at home. Knowing how impactful this experience could be—just as Bishop’s was for me—I made it my goal to help the kids feel confident, especially those who’d been bullied or labeled negatively. I made it my mission for them to have fun and leave thinking more positively about themselves. I don’t believe I would have approached the situation the same way if I had never taken Criminology at Bishop’s. In short, my Bishop’s University student experience is shaping who I am and how I engage meaningfully with others.
I haven’t yet explored courses outside my new focus, but I’m excited to branch out next semester and keep expanding my perspective—just as Bishop’s mission encourages.
