Photo by Cam
When I (CAM) was on my way to Thompson Rivers University I was moving away from home leaving everything behind .I did not know anyone or where was the nearest grocery store. It is scary being a new student and one is not human if he or she can sleep the night before their arrival on campus. The school is set up high on Kamloops mid plateau in such a way you have a breathtaking view of the Thompson Valley and the confluence of Thompson’s north and south branches. Kamloops sits on the traditional unceded territory of the Tk’emlúpsemc “ the people of the confluence” now known as the Shuswap or Secwepmc people (Tk’emlups, 2018).
Kamloops from TRU. Photo by Sobia
My first contact was a smile and the first words I heard: Welcome to T.R.U. do you need help?
Here’s a survival kit that we came up for you to succeed and say goodbye to stress when the exam bell rings.
1.Waking Up
Sleep is important. It is scientific and proven that without sleep one is tired, confused, can be subject to depression(Lichenstein,2011). How many hours of sleep did you get last night?
TRU Residence. Photo by Sobia
Conveniently there is residence on campus a few steps away so even after a big night you can sleep until twenty minutes before class and still arrive on time. If you’re cutting it too close you can even do a small jog, why not start the day with a bit of blood flow?
Photo by Cam
2.Coffee and food
Getting food and caffeine is a must. Yet, let’s be honest here, coffee is what will really get you through the day. Almost in every building on campus except the libraries you can get a caffeinated drink with Tim Hortons, Starbucks, Bean Me Up, and most importantly, Common Grounds where all the proceeds go to the student’s union and has the best view of the mountains.
For food in that same building there the restaurant The Den if you are looking for a pub style cuisine. Finally our favorite place for an amazing lunch is created everyday by the culinary students in the Culinary Arts Building right in front of Old Main where these future chefs can test out their passion on their fellow students.
3. TRU & Multiculturalism
TRU is known for its International Schooling. The student’s population here is a true reflection of diversity. For example TRU has Maple Leaf a high school for Chinese students within its walls. Furthermore, students across the world come here to benefit from TRU multidisciplinary school.In other words,students get to meet International students share their personal experiences and culture thus promote a better understanding between their respective countries.. It doesn’t matter if you are a local or not you will fit here just fine.
Photo by Sobia
I myself (Sobia) come from a tiny village from Pakistan, and it is so small that you can’t even find any information about it on Google Maps. I must say students and professors here are very pleasant, friendly, informative and approachable.
In Sum..
If you want high quality food, sleep, caffeine, and great people Thompson Rivers University is waiting for you. It is not only a beautiful place to study but simply a great place to live.
Four hours away you’re at the Pacific Ocean. Two hours away you are at one of the most famous mountain ranges for skiing. One hour away you can get access to the most famous wild salmon fishing in the world. A few minutes down the road you can be on the Riverside’s Park beach admiring the sunset or have access to the most famous mountain bike trails in the Southern Interior Region of British Columbia.
You see ? This place is meant for one to have fun, relieve stress before exams and succeed.
See you soon.
