During grade twelve I envisioned moving two hours away from my small town in Newfoundland and living with relatives while attending university. After competing in a music festival, I was encouraged to apply to Mount Allison. Eventually, I applied never dreaming of getting accepted.  

The acceptance letter came in the mail a few weeks later and within minutes I decided to start a new adventure to New Brunswick.  

When driving to move in day in August, I spotted the Mount Allison University sign on the highway and my heart sank. It began to settle in that I was about to arrive to my new home for the next four years. Not long after stepping foot on campus, I was greeted by many people who began moving my things into a new room. Once move in day was over, my family said goodbye and I was on my own to tackle this new adventure.  

The semester began, and I felt every emotion. While walking across campus, attempting to navigate to the correct building, I knew the next four years were going to bring lots of fun and opportunity. Progressively things fell in place, and Sackville truly felt like my new home.  

Fast forward to three years later, and I am now in my last year of undergrad, heartbroken to know that I will be leaving and starting my life somewhere else.  

No matter where you come from geographically, moving to a new place can be extremely intimidating as well as exciting! Of course, we are currently experiencing a global pandemic, so not everyone has had the opportunity to move to Sackville. To any new students that just began their journey at Mount Allison, being overwhelmed is normal! 

Here are some tips that can assist you in navigating your first few months of school: