Over the weekend, thousands of students across the country converged on the Royal City, ready to embark on their academic journey at the University of Guelph. This wave of arrivals, representing every corner of the nation, marked the commencement of the university’s move-in weekend.
Saturday saw a flurry of activity with students offloading their possessions. A collaborative effort between parents and university personnel ensured that the shift from home to halls proceeded without a hitch. The atmosphere was abuzz with anticipation, curiosity, and a dash of trepidation as students looked towards their imminent future.
“It’s certainly an exhilarating phase, filled with opportunities to meet new faces, get acquainted with roommates, and explore everything the campus has to offer,” one enthusiastic student shared.
Parents, their eyes welling with tears of mixed emotions, helped in the unloading process. Having journeyed hours, they lent their assistance to their children settling down in their newfound spaces and bade heartfelt goodbyes as their offspring began to unfurl their wings.
Conversely, optimism was a common undertone among parents. One remarked, “Despite the emotional tug, it’s indeed gratifying to see such an organized move-in, collectively assisted by many hands. It’s been a good day overall!”
For students like Zeid Abushar, the experience was a cocktail of enthusiasm and anxiety. Yet, his resilience shone through as he expressed his readiness to step into this fresh chapter. Tonia Jordan, Zeid’s mother, shared a similar sentiment. Despite admitting that watching her son leave the nest was tough, her spirit remained high, confident that he would do well.
The University of Guelph estimates that around 5,000 students will transition into their new dormitories over the Labour Day long weekend. Student Housing Services have been working tirelessly to streamline the move-in process over two days. Patrick Kelly, a representative from the department, revealed that they had a packed day of these procedures on Saturday.
Yet, the university appreciates that some students continue to grapple with housing issues, with all residences currently running at full capacity. Kelly reassured that students could still apply for on-campus accommodations and that assistance would be provided to navigate these challenges.
As the weekend drew to a close, the campus exuded an air of change and progression. Students waved their parents goodbye, their hearts both alight with anticipation and weighed down with nervousness. The chapter of independence had indeed begun for them.
“I’m a bundle of nerves,” admitted Abushar. “But the excitement of this new journey overshadows it. I believe I’m ready for what lies ahead.”
