Choosing the right university is one of the biggest and hardest decisions a student can make. Having so many options to choose from, the choices can feel overwhelming. I promise you that it is not that hard! Go with your gut and choose the place that feels like home!
When I started my university search in Canada, I explored so many different schools across the country. Coming in as a student-athlete, I was looking for the perfect balance of academics, student life, athletics, and campus facilities. Coming from a big city in B.C, I never saw myself committing to a small city university like Bishop’s. That was until I had been offered a visit by Bishop’s University on behalf of the football team to see the school. I had visited the campus and was eager to learn more about what it had to offer. I realized it was exactly what I had been looking for.
My First Impressions of Bishop’s University
The first time I set foot on Bishop’s University’s campus, I was instantly drawn to the looks of the campus. As the 12th oldest university in Canada, Bishop’s University has a timeless charm, with its historic architecture and classical vibe that draws you in right as you step foot in the quad. The lit-up trees in the winter and inviting atmosphere of the school truly set it apart. The sense of community is what set the atmosphere apart from other schools. Walking around campus it felt more like a community and a place to meet friends rather than just a simple campus where we go to study and that’s it!
Campus Facilities and Buildings
One of the highlights of my campus visit was seeing the variety of facilities Bishop’s University had to offer. From modern classrooms to unique learning spaces, the campus does a great job at setting the atmosphere for academic success in Canada.
We can start with the biggest lecture hall in our school, Bishop’s Williams Hall—the historic lecture hall has beautiful windows that shows the history of our school amongst the modern renovations. You walk in and instantly feel a part of Canadian university history. Alongside the classrooms, we have newer classrooms in the Nicholls, Johnson, and Hamilton buildings. These buildings have state-of-the-art classrooms equipped with all the technology you need for academic success from film-oriented classrooms to music room!
One of my personal favorite classrooms is the Film Room in Nicholls. Unlike the other classrooms, the seats here are movie theater-style with high-quality speakers, making it the perfect space for students who love media. Bishop’s also offers a drama program where students perform in the theater below.
The campus also has a newly renovated library, providing students with private study rooms, quiet areas, TVs, iPads, and even bean bags in the common area to catch some sleep between classes. The library also has Faro Café, a popular coffee shop with multiple locations around Quebec . Once you find yourself at Bishop’s, you have to try the pesto brie sandwich—I promise it wont fail you.
Sports Complex
As I mentioned earlier, I was searching for a university that valued athletics and student wellness. I was absolutely blown away when I saw Bishop’s newly renovated sportsplex which is our sports and rec building. The university has invested in its students and athletes by providing a top-tier environment that caters to both varsity athletes and recreational gym-goers by offering separate workout spaces, one for varsity teams and one for casual workouts!
The plex offers a sports studies research room, which is a hands-on learning space where students conduct research and experiments. You can also find the football team training using V.R. The other facilities include two basketball gyms, a swimming pool, and an ice rink.
Outside the sportsplex, you’ll find Coulter Field, where our football, soccer, lacrosse, and rugby teams play. History was recently made on this field as our Gaiters football team brought home their first AUS Championship.
Why Bishop’s Was the Right Choice for Me
After all this bragging about what our school has to offer, I must share why Bishop’s University was the best choice for me. As you can see, the balance of academics, facilities, and community makes it an obvious choice.
Unlike larger Canadian universities, Bishop’s offers a tight-knit student environment where students and professors connect on a deeper level. Instead of sitting in a class of 300 students, Bishop’s offers small, intimate classrooms where students can engage directly with their peers and professors.
The campus blends history with modern innovation, making it a desirable university choice for anyone seeking a well-rounded experience. Choosing a university is not just about academics—it’s about finding a community where you feel welcome.
Bishop’s University offered me a supportive, engaging, and dynamic environment where I could achieve academic success and build lifelong connections. If you’re looking for a Canadian university that not only prioritizes academics but also values its students, Bishop’s is for you!
