When I was choosing a school, class size was the primary deciding factor. I wanted to ensure that I would have the chance to get to know my professors and engage in research opportunities. The warmer weather in Lethbridge and the beautiful coulees were also appealing.

I was happy to be back on campus for in-person classes during the fall 2021 semester. It was exciting and more engaging to learn in person again. I was also fortunate to have the opportunity to be a research assistant. I got to live in Calgary and then Red Deer while we collected survey data in various parks throughout the two cities. It was a great learning opportunity, and it introduced me to some of the behind-the-scenes aspects of academic research.

I love to join clubs; however, I found there was a lack of options for extracurricular activities and a lack of information about them. On top of that, most were not very active. COVID precautions were partly responsible. On a positive note, there are a lot of opportunities for applied and independent studies.

Most of my professors have been gems. Obviously, some professors don’t put as much effort into their teaching style and prefer to focus on their research. Still, I would say that most of the professors that I have had are approachable and supportive. I love it when they share their passion for the subject they are teaching, and are not afraid to show their personal quirks and demonstrate empathy toward students when needed.

When dealing with any financial or registration matters, I found considerable red tape. It isn’t always easy to get into the courses you need and want; if you end up getting into all of your top choices, consider yourself lucky. The university could benefit from being more transparent and listening to students’ concerns.

If you love being outdoors, Lethbridge may be for you. If you are a social butterfly looking for nightlife, Lethbridge will not be for you. It’s also relatively far from any major cities. There are beautiful green spaces and hiking trails throughout the city. Waterton, Wally’s Beach and Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump are in close driving proximity to Lethbridge and worth visiting for a day trip.

If I wrote the school motto: ‘Let there be wind’

Best place to live: West side, off-campus

Best place to study: Overlooking the coulees outside of UHall when it’s warm outside

Best campus events: Last semester, they had an outdoor performance by the Chubby Cree hand drum group and a Sandra Lamouche hoop dance

Weirdest tradition: Rubbing the nose of the pronghorn statue in the entrance of the library before taking an exam

Best campus food: Baadshah Royal East Indian Cuisine or Tivoli

Best place for a fancy dinner: Firestone Restaurant and Bar

Best bar for hanging out: Telegraph Taphouse or the Place Arcade Bar

Best live music venue: Owl Acoustic Lounge

Best place for a nap: Pool bleachers

The thing that surprised me most about the school: Many students I’ve talked to express how isolated they’ve felt here in the past couple of years. Students seem to focus on their assignments while at school or stick with the friend groups they came with from high school.

If I could change one thing about the school: I’d like to see the university focus more on building an environment that prioritizes personal development, a passion for academic exploration and freedom, and betterment of individuals and society