From labs to hockey, first-years are ready to dive into campus life
The start of a new school year always brings excitement, but for first-year students at Wilfrid Laurier University’s Brantford campus, that excitement is amplified by fresh opportunities and new beginnings. Whether it’s meeting people, focusing on academics or enjoying campus events, the first-years are eager to make their mark at Laurier Brantford.
For many, university represents not just a chance to pursue education, but also to step into a completely new environment. Abisha Senthurvasan, a first-year in applied health sciences, is most looking forward to the combination of academics and friendships that come with the experience. “I think about making new friends and learning new things. Like going to labs and such because I took grade 12 chemistry and we didn’t really have that,” Senthurvasan shared. For her, the hands-on aspect of labs and access to resources highlight the difference between high school and university life.
While some students focus on academics, others are excited for what happens outside the classroom and on the field. Simon Rachwal, a first-year criminology student, said that he’s looking forward to Laurier Brantford’s hockey season. The games are more than just athletic competitions, but rather, a way to build school spirit, meet fellow Golden Hawks and enjoy the energy of the crowd.
Social life also plays a big role in what students anticipate. Laurier Brantford has a reputation for being a close-knit campus where events, club activities and student gatherings help create a sense of community. First-year criminology student, Nicholas Daniel, summed up his goals for the year in a way that many students can identify with: “I am excited to attend more events, meet new people and of course, eat more food.” People-gathering events, particularly those involving food, have long been a favourite among Laurier students because they provide a place to unwind and make connections outside of the classroom.
Many new students share these viewpoints, which include the thrill of forming friendships, taking part in Laurier traditions and venturing into the real world. There is a renewed desire to take advantage of everything Laurier Brantford has to offer in the years after the pandemic interrupted student life.
Campus clubs, intramural sports and academic societies provide a variety of ways for students to get involved and the smaller size of the Brantford campus often makes it easier for first-years to feel part of the community quickly. From welcome events to ongoing activities throughout the semester, students have plenty of chances to shape their own university experience.
As the semester begins, students like Senthurvasan, Rachwal and Daniel are just the first voices in what promises to be an energetic year at Laurier Brantford. The common thread among them — whether it’s excitement for labs, hockey, or food-filled events — is a shared anticipation for connection, growth and new memories. This year, first-year students are not just looking forward to their classes. They are looking forward to everything that makes Laurier Brantford more than just a campus, but rather a community.
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