My Plans for a Sackville Summer

Author: Lucy Poole
Posted on April 22, 2021

With exams and final projects finally done, it’s now time to start making plans for my second - and most likely last - Sackville Summer. Sackville is beautiful year round, but there’s definitely something special about the summer here. It’s quiet and peaceful, and everything seems to move a bit more slowly than anywhere else. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a stressful academic year, while still having the opportunity to gain meaningful work experience and take advantage of all of the beautiful summer sights that are close by. Here’s a little glimpse into what my plans are for a Sackville Summer…

1. Working on a research project

Definitely not the most glamorous part of my summer plan, but one of the most important! This summer, I’m doing an individual research project that is funded by one of the University’s Independent Student Research Grants (ISRGs). When you think of research, your mind might immediately jump to science students in labs, but students from any discipline can apply for an ISRG. I’m going to be studying the economics of national health care systems and how they’ve affected COVID-19 vaccine distribution! 

2. Hiking & camping

Sackville is very conveniently located just a short drive away from two of New Brunswick’s National Parks - Fundy and Kouchibouguac! I went to Fundy for the first time last summer and couldn’t believe I’d never been before. There are beautiful hiking trails with views of the Bay of Fundy, breathtaking waterfalls, and even lakes and beaches within the park for swimming. Camping is also a really affordable way to go on a weekend trip on a student’s budget.

3. Going to the beach! 

My friends and I have vowed to try to go to the beach at least once a week all summer. As a Nova Scotian, I would be a true traitor if I didn’t try to spend the majority of my free time there. Aboiteau, Parlee, and Murray Beach Provincial Park are all under an hour’s drive from Sackville and the water actually gets pretty warm as the summer goes on! 

4. Enjoying the Sackville sun

We are really lucky in Sackville to have wonderful outdoor spaces, like Waterfowl Park, Swan Pond, and the Bill Johnstone Memorial Park. As much as I can, I look forward to just taking my everyday activities outside. Joey’s, Cranewood, and Bagtown Brewery also have outdoor seating during the summer, and fingers crossed that some other businesses will be able to open patios as well. I love any excuse to support local, and doing so in the sun makes it all the more enjoyable! 

Summer in Sackville is an experience I would recommend to anyone. Even though the student population definitely shrinks, you get the chance to meet people you wouldn’t otherwise cross paths with during the academic year and form some new friendships! 

Photo: A photo from a hike in Fundy National Park this fall!