Will you be attending school in Hamilton this fall? Check out some tips on where to study and how to make it through your first year stress-free.
Preview the Colleges/Universities
Hamilton has some of the best post-secondary schools in Canada. Before you make your decision on what school is best, you should preview each school’s credentials and check out their campuses. A campus tour can give you a glimpse into student life, and whether you can see yourself living there for the next few years.
Pick Based on Your Needs
Are you thinking about attending university? McMaster University, founded in 1887, has over 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students, and is regularly rated as a top 5 university in Canada by a number of global ranking reports. McMaster’s research-intensive campus is home to over 70 research facilities and six academic faculties, including Humanities, Social Science, Science, Engineering, Health Sciences, and the DeGroote School of Business. Notable alumni include astronaut Roberta Bondar, actor John Candy, and former Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty.
Mohawk College, Hamilton’s most recognized college, has three campuses with over 17,000 students studying a range of topics including skilled trades, technology, business, and communication arts.
Hamilton is also home to College Boreal, the only French language college in all of Southern Ontario. Also available in the city is the Teachers College operated by Brock University, offering both graduate studies and continuing education.
And for those looking for a deeper relationship with faith and learning, you can study at the private Christian school Redeemer University in such studies as the arts, science, and education.
Moving In
If you have a roommate, make sure to iron out the house rules early, this can help ensure you both give and get the space and respect you need to live comfortably together.
A great alternative to dorm life are student apartments in Hamilton. CLV Group’s Don & Grant apartment building is located just a short walk from McMaster University and a short drive or bus to other schools in the city.
Don’t Forget to Study
Starting a new school can be overwhelming at first. Finding classes, meeting friends, and getting in a groove can be exciting. But don’t forget why you are there, and make sure you take the time to study. Study in the comfort of your apartment, head to the campus library, or visit the local coffee shops to get some quiet focus time.
How to Meet People
You might not be living on campus, so meeting people may take some extra effort. Sure you can meet people in class, but sometimes that’s difficult if you’re not working in groups. Check your campuses information boards, and find a study group, sports team, or social club that matches your interests. There may also be organized social events that are a great place to meet people and get involved in the community.
Hamilton has some of the most recognized post-secondary institutions in Canada. Make your school time in Hamilton fun, productive, and as stress-free as possible by using some of these suggestions to guide you in settling in during that first year at school.
Find your Hamilton apartment before the semester starts!