Starting university can feel like jumping into the deep end—exciting but a little scary too. When I came to Bishop’s for my first year, I didn’t know what to expect. I’d heard the community was tight-knit and that there were always things going on, but you don’t really get it until you live it.
So, here’s a peek into what an actual day in the life at Bishop’s looks like for a first-year student (based on my real experience). Spoiler: it’s not just about classes and homework—it’s about finding your rhythm, your people, and a place that really feels like home.
Morning Starts at Dewies
If you go to Bishop’s, you will spend a chunk of your life at Dewies—the dining hall on campus. It becomes more than just a place to eat. It’s where we meet up before or after class, catch up on gossip, procrastinate on readings, and occasionally, eat food. I usually head there in the morning for breakfast with a few friends, and we somehow always stay longer than planned.
Small, Meaningful Classes
Classes at Bishop’s are one of the things that really stand out. They’re small, interactive, and you get to know your professors—which makes it easier to stay engaged and ask questions. On most days, I’d have one or two classes spaced throughout the day, giving me time to reflect, grab a snack, or get some studying in between. It never felt overwhelming, but I always felt challenged.
Library Study Rooms with Friends
After class, I often headed to the library with friends. We’d book one of the study rooms—something that is perfect if you like a bit of structure but still want the company of others. Sometimes we were super productive, other times we just needed a shared space to talk things through and help each other stay motivated.
Time to Recharge at the Gym
When I needed to recharge or reset, the gym was my go-to. It’s a great space whether you’re into weight training, cardio, or just want to move after sitting in class all day. Getting into a regular workout routine helped me stay balanced and gave me some much-needed alone time when I needed to clear my head.
Intramural Volleyball Nights
Evenings were for fun—and intramural volleyball became one of the highlights of my week. I joined with friends I made during orientation week, and it was the perfect mix of casual and competitive. We laughed a lot, played hard (sometimes), and bonded over shared victories and fumbled serves. Intramurals are such a great way to meet people and get involved without any pressure.
Hanging Out in the Dorm
Dorm life at Bishop’s is really something special. After volleyball or dinner, we’d usually hang out in someone’s room or the common area. Whether it was movie nights, card games, or just talking about our days, those quiet (and sometimes chaotic) evenings brought us all closer together.
Something’s Always Happening on Campus
There’s never a dull moment on campus. From club events and speaker series to fashion shows and open mic nights, there’s always something to check out. I made a point to try new things and attend as many events as I could—it helped me find new interests, meet new people, and feel more connected to the community.
Evening Walks to Unwind
One of my favorite parts of the day was taking a walk after dinner. The Bishop’s campus is beautiful, and taking a slow stroll around the grounds helped me unwind and reflect. Sometimes I’d go with a friend, sometimes solo with a podcast—but it was always a peaceful way to end the day.
Final Thoughts: First Year Feels Like Home
Looking back, my first year at Bishop’s wasn’t just about adjusting to university—it was about finding a place where I felt like I belonged. From Dewies breakfasts to late-night volleyball games and study sessions that turn into hangouts, every day feels full in the best way.
If you’re wondering what life at Bishop’s is really like—this is it. It’s chill, it’s busy, it’s welcoming, and most importantly, it’s yours to make.
