Students look forward to procrastinate on work once again
Fall semester resumed on Tuesday, September 3, and exciting things await the new and returning U of R students. This time, students are likely to enjoy better social spaces after the renovation of seating areas in Riddell Commons and Lab Commons, whether that be to study, dine in, or to simply hang out with their peers. And what better way to get a glimpse of campus life than through the voice of the students themselves?
When asked about her first day of classes, Hafsa Gori, a first-year undergraduate student in nursing and recipient of the Elmer Shaw Entrance Bursary, told the Carillon, “I was very excited but at the same time nervous. I had my first class today, though it was an online class over Zoom. I felt connected looking at the diversity and the faces of the different students.” When asked about what excites her for this upcoming semester Gori said, “I have started my four-year journey today, and this is what motivates me to study. Everything is ready for my nursing classes; my IDs, my stethoscope, my nursing pin that I got from the faculty […].” She implored high school students to enjoy high school life as much as they can because “[…] later on the steps that you would take would be harder- you have to be more organized and at the same time, you need to find the right balance between your studies, work, and leisure time.”
Yara Enrera, a returning undergraduate student, explains that seeing her peers and everyone else on campus is something that she is excited about. “It’s not just about going to school and getting your lecture done, but it is also about being part of the community that you can socialize in, form our identity, and get a grasp on what everyone is doing, and also having a way to do stuff instead of staying at home and not being productive.” Enrera is currently in her mental health rotation as a nursing student is excited about it. “We’re learning about different types of psychological and psychiatric disorders, and it’s been interesting so far, “she says. Enrera also adds, “This is something very applicable to society, and when it comes to health and learning about disorders, you actually get to help people by understanding the depth of it.” When it comes to campus clubs and events, Enrera mentions that she has mostly been a part of the Muslim Students Association (MSA) and Islamic Relief events, and helped to raise awareness about global issues. She was also excited to attend the welcome week events that were offered by the university in the first week of the fall semester.
While it is important to make the most of university life it is also imperative to take regular breaks to avoid burnouts – the Carillon
Havabibi Sadek, a second year student in biology, wants to be a better version of herself this year. “I’m more excited about meeting with my friends and connecting with them,” said Sadek. She mentioned that she spends most of her free time at the Women’s Centre outside of classes, and that is where she made most of her friends. “During spring and summer, I volunteered within the community. I took the opportunity to go on a 3-day camp during the long weekend, and I like the connections that I made with younger high school students […] I bonded with my peers and nature,” she said enthusiastically. Sadek also expressed her excitement about being involved with the Centre of Experiential Learning’s (CESL) ambassador program and hopes to transition from a junior to senior ambassador soon. As a biology major, Sadek also likes to volunteer for science related clubs and societies on campus. When asked about what events she hopes to see this semester, Sadek says, “I look forward to attending more events in support of Palestine and hope that we all stand together for the support of Gaza, Sudan, Congo, Yemen, and other countries facing humanitarian crises.”
In the words of Rafat Jahan Mohammadi, a second year computer science student, “It is fun to get back to university after having a relaxing break. Meeting people from places I might not have heard much about and telling them interesting facts that are unheard of in my culture.” Mohammadi believes that sharing cultures and traditions makes coming back to university more exciting. She is also excited to try out the new additions to the university’s food chain including Trifon’s pizza and the Da India Curry Express. Mohammadi says he is grateful for the facilities that the U of R campus provides, from the study rooms to extracurricular activities and volunteer programs. “The campus has all the things a student needs, from gyms and swimming pools to libraries and study rooms.”
The U of R campus is once again vibrant with students, staff members, and club activities, these are just some of the voices from students that the Carillon interviewed. Each shared a bit about their own journey and experience. While the first few weeks of classes can undoubtedly be overwhelming, it is refreshing to see the students having a positive outlook towards the coming weeks. Be it volunteering, studying or even working on campus there is something to keep one occupied. One common takeaway from these students is to be open to opportunities that come along your way, get involved, and make the most of the university days but also take regular breaks to avoid burnout.The Carillon is excited to see and hopes to meet all of you on campus!
