Hello everyone, my name is Ben, and I am a second- year student in the Commerce & Aviation program. Things are getting exciting!! We are just a few short weeks away from your first days at Mount Allison. Just one year ago I was in your shoes, preparing my things and starting to form an idea of what life away from home would be like.  When I moved to MtA like a lot of people it was my first time away from home. I found that moving away from home to a small town in New Brunswick was quite a weight on my shoulders.   However, I can assure you that you will feel like you're at home from the moment you arrive! From the second your sneakers hit the pavement at the welcome centre you can feel the community that you will soon be a part of.  

I certainly cannot say that this past year was like any other, and we cannot guarantee that this year will be either, but I found it very helpful to keep an open mind and work with what is given to you. To be completely honest you will be plastered with information for the first few days and weeks, it can become overwhelming. However, when you see something that might pique your interest, take a minute to join that club or society, or fit that class into your schedule. You can meet some of the most amazing people or learn some of the craziest things just by joining a group that you find interesting. There is a very large selection of events during Orientation, in hopes to get everyone involved and feel welcomed to life at Mount Allison.  If you take part in the Orientation events and still don’t find something you love, there is no need to panic! There are many opportunities all year round within the university, the MASU or in each residence building if you are living on campus.  

 If there was one piece of advice I could give anyone starting university in the fall, it would be to take advantage of each opportunity to get involved and participate as much as possible. It is entirely normal to be nervous and some things may feel a little awkward but remember that everyone is in the same boat and the ice just needs to be broken. And most importantly, always remember that there is always someone you can go to for help. I am looking forward to meeting many of you on September 3rd! If you have any questions or would like to chat in the meantime or during Orientation, please feel free to reach out to either myself (bamckiel@mta.ca) or connect with anyone on the Orientation team on the "Meet the Orientation Team" website. 

Written by Ben McKiel, a second-year student and member of this year's Orientation Committee.