Off-Campus, On Track: 4 Things I Wish I Knew as a First-Year Off-Campus Student
Written by: Patrick Acres, Member of the Off-Campus Soph Team
Photo Credits: Patrick Acres
One of my biggest worries before starting school here at Western as an off-campus student was missing out on the residence experience that seems to be synonymous with the post-secondary journey. Would I be too far removed from the social scene to make friends? Would I be at a disadvantage to my peers who were living in residence? These concerns are 100% valid, and I think they creep into the minds of off-campus students more than we’d like to admit sometimes. Through my own experiences as an off-campus student over the past three years, allow me to ease your mind; choosing to live off-campus might have been one of the best decisions I made in my first year. More importantly, addressing these off-campus related challenges was often easier than I initially anticipated. As I reflect on my triumphs and setbacks, here are my best pieces of advice for thriving in your transition to university as a first-year off-campus student:
1. Opt-in for O-Week
If there’s one event that I could recommend to any incoming off-campus student, it’s Western’s Orientation Week (OWeek). Carrying its unmatched reputation as Canada’s best orientation experience, I’m a firm believer that Western’s OWeek gives students the perfect head start in making new connections with peers and upper-year student leaders (in fact, some of my closest friendships were founded over our OWeek bonding). Additionally, OWeek introduces countless campus resources that make all the difference in supporting students during their time at Western (such as the Wellness Education Centre, Academic Counselling, Student Health Services, etc.). Social integration into the campus community is a huge component of the post-secondary transition, but Western’s OWeek also serves as a cornerstone for providing off-campus students with the ultimate collection of tools, tips, and tricks for effectively navigating their new off-campus lifestyles.
While the current outlook for ensuring a safe start to the school year is one that relies heavily on virtual programming, rest assured that Western places an incredible amount of support behind its orientation initiatives. In compliance with guidelines set by university officials and the local health unit, this year’s OWeek will look a little bit different from previous years. However, orientation leaders are exploring tons of brand-new virtual platforms and creative networking solutions to provide the best experience for the Class of 2024. Regardless of where physically distanced learning takes you this year, Western’s OWeek is committed to equipping students with the knowledge, resources, and support systems they need to succeed as a Mustang. Don’t miss out!
For the full scoop on everything Orientation, check out their website!
2. Rely on your Sophs
Sophs are upper-year student mentors who aim to connect incoming students with the resources they need for academic success and to stay healthy. Simply put, a Soph is the easiest friend a first-year student could ever make during their time at Western. In practice, all incoming students living off-campus are paired with at least one OC Soph (who specializes in wellness resources and integrating students within the London community) and at least one Faculty Soph (who serves as an academic transition mentor). I think there’s something special to be said about the power of student-facilitated mentorship along with the comfort and convenience that comes from reaching out to a trustworthy and relatable perspective. A Soph’s greatest priority is to ensure the well being of their students, and it’s more than likely that they’ve had a similar first-hand experience with the adjustment to a university lifestyle. You are never alone in this new and exciting chapter!
3. Follow your passions outside the classroom
Being proactive and planning ahead goes a long way toward attaining success in post-secondary education. With the convenience that comes from living in residence, first-year off-campus students are often tasked with a unique set of challenges that require careful forethought. Shopping for groceries, cooking meals, packing a lunch, and commuting to school are all common off-campus responsibilities, but finding the time to accomplish these tasks can be easily navigated with some planning. I found that establishing a regular routine, using a personal planner or electronic calendar, and collaborating with friends to keep these activities enjoyable were some of the biggest reasons I was able to stay organized even at the busiest of times. While every individual is unique in how they schedule themselves, having the opportunity to establish beneficial habits in first-year prepares students for continued post-secondary success.
4. Plan proactively for fufilling off-campus obligation
Being proactive and planning ahead goes a long way toward attaining success in post-secondary education. With the convenience that comes from living in residence, first-year off-campus students are often tasked with a unique set of challenges that require careful forethought. Shopping for groceries, cooking meals, packing a lunch, and commuting to school are all common off-campus responsibilities, but finding the time to accomplish these tasks can be easily navigated with some planning. I found that establishing a regular routine, using a personal planner or electronic calendar, and collaborating with friends to keep these activities enjoyable were some of the biggest reasons I was able to stay organized even at the busiest of times. While every individual is unique in how they schedule themselves, having the opportunity to establish beneficial habits in first-year prepares students for continued post-secondary success.
Choosing to live off-campus is a thrilling and financially friendly decision for many first-years. I’ve been grateful to recognize the value that Western places on the experience of its off-campus students, and the multitude of resources they provide to make the best out of your post-secondary venture. As a fellow off-campus student, I’m cheering you on!
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