Thompson River University is in the city of Kamloops west of Canadian Rocky Mountains and northeast of Vancouver. The university is located halfway up the hill overviewing the city of Kamloops and covered by snow during the winter. TRU’s history begins in the 1970s. During that time, the school called Cariboo College which was created by the provincial government. Since then, TRU has been attracting and supporting students from all over the world. Thompson Rivers University now boasts two distinctive campuses. One is located in Kamloops, and the other campus is located in Williams Lake, which is almost 300 kilometers to Kamloops. TRU has nearly 26,000 students, 140 on-campus programs and 60 open learning programs. TRU is one of the international of many universities in Canada.
I still remember the first day when I walked on campus. It was an afternoon, a sunny day. The maple leaves were falling in the wind, and covered the streets, which is usually the autumn of Kamloops. For me, the first impression of TRU is of gold and warmth. The new students will come to TRU every September, which is the most beautiful season in here.
There is a Tournament Capital Centre that is opposite McGill student housing. There is a gym, open with different equipments which I like. For example, bodybuilding equipment, basketball courts, a swimming pool and hot tub. Their service is wonderful. They knew I was a the first year student. The staff showed me everywhere in the centre and introduced to me what kind of activities I could do here. Because I am a TRU student, I got a discount when I signed a membership with them. The equipment over there is all brand new. It’s an amazing place for student who likes activities.
After the first class in school, I was so confused about where could I get the book that the teacher required. One of my friends lead me to the bookstore which is inside of Campus Activity Centre building. There are many different types of books over there. One thing that surprised me is that there are many items with the university name on it. I was so excited when I saw it. Those logos represent TRU as my new community or home. When you wear or use it, it tells others I am part of the TRU community.
As one of the international universities in Canada, TRU has created different student clubs on campus. For example, TRU’s Chinese Students and Scholars Association club, TRU’s AdventureU Outdoor Club, TRU’s Leap Club, etc. These clubs come from all fields of education and recreation. They not only welcome new students, but also locals. The TRU Leap Club is one of the popular student clubs on campus. TRU leap club gives new students an opportunity to have fun, meet new people, and be ready for new classes.
I have been studying at TRU for more than two years. Learning at TRU, joining the great communities is like living with a new family in Canada. It is always accompanied by warmth and love. Choosing to study at TRU, you will not only find a place to keep learning, but also find a brand-new world for recreation. You will have fun and the most extreme experience in your life.
