It feels like it was just yesterday that I was moving across the country, starting fresh at a school in Canada’s largest city. The first year felt like settling into my new normal, the second like starting to build off of the foundation, and now my third year has given me the freedom to expand my horizons, try new things, and really see what university life has to offer.
Not everyone is going to have the same path, for me the start of junior year meant trying out a new sport, exploring new job opportunities, and making more time to explore the city. So if your school year is feeling a little dull, don’t hesitate to say yes to those plans or that new opportunity, or to take a step and explore new territory. My changes have already cemented this year as the best (so far) of my years at TMU, and some of these tips are what led me to truly be able to cherish my time here.
No matter the year, everyone should try to take advantage of all that university life has to offer and explore new possibilities. If you want a jumping point, here are five ideas for reigniting your junior year.
- Join a club
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I know better than anyone that the classic “join a club!” rhetoric in university is overused. But seriously, we all have unique interests, and clubs offer a perfect opportunity to meet others who share them. Whether you like literature, video games, music, sports, or anything else, I guarantee there’s something to suit your passion.
Not to mention, clubs can offer a potential resume boost! If you want to build your career around your passion, clubs can help you gain experience, and connections that will support your dreams. Give it a try, attend a meeting, and if it doesn’t work out, you never have to go again.
- Explore the city
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If you’re a TMU student like me, you’ve repeatedly heard students and faculty alike describe our campus as “the city,” since we’re located right in the heart of downtown Toronto. Well, we all know the cons of this — extreme prices, classes in a movie theatre, and transit concerns.
Let’s talk about a few of the pros. The city is the most accessible place for entertainment, fun, and new experiences. Even within a few blocks of campus, there are many different restaurants, activities, and shopping opportunities to fill your time. Take your time to look into the possibilities, and you never know where your day will take you.
- Try out interesting classes
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If you have any room at all in your schedule to be creative with your class choices, take that opportunity! Whether liberal courses, core electives, or open electives, take a class that genuinely interests you. It is always worth it to receive formal education on a topic you’re truly passionate about, so don’t miss out while you can.
Many schools offer access to a wide variety of majors, courses, and other studies suited to your needs. Who knows, maybe a new class will ignite your vision for a career path, help you make new friends, and expand your horizons.
- Branch out of your bubble
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Along with trying out new classes, making friends in different majors can really help you get more involved and experience new things. Tunnel vision in your major is a real thing; only interacting with others who take the same classes, share the same interests, and have the same career goals can leave life feeling repetitive. Branching out and learning more about life outside of your bubble can really help refresh your mindset and your life.
So take some time to talk to someone sitting next to you in that random course, you never know where that simple connection might take you.
- Get moving
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As cliché as it sounds, moving your body can be a catalyst for supporting your other goals and dreams. Whether it be joining an intramural team, a club, or just going for a walk, physical activity and movement can spark something bigger. Our body is the number one tool needed to participate in different activities so don’t neglect it! Find what works for you, especially if it’s something fun that you’ll enjoy adding to your schedule.
So take that chance. Take that opportunity. Say yes to that invite. It could change the trajectory of the rest of your university career.