Incoming Vancouver Island University students were welcomed and got their first taste of post-secondary life at the Nanaimo campus this week.
RockVIU, the university’s orientation event, took place Thursday, Sept. 1, with carnival games, food, music and booths offering information on student services for those from near and far.
Connor Webb has moved from Calgary for university and said he chose VIU because it was the best place to pursue his program.
“Right now I’m in exploratory studies and I’m trying to get into the [resource management officer technology] program to hopefully become a conservation officer or park ranger,” he said.
Being a province away from family, he anticipates being homesick.
“My whole family lives back in Calgary and I’ve got pets back there, but so far I’m doing all right,” Webb said. “They’re calling me every day.”
He has made a few visits to the Nanaimo campus and said it’s “lovely” and he likes what he sees.
“Everyone’s so nice here and welcoming and the campus is a lot bigger than I thought it would be,” Webb said.
According to a press release from the university, RockVIU is more than fun and games; it connects students with professors and includes tours of the campus.
“RockVIU is one of your first opportunities to become a valued part of our community, learn more about your campus and meet new people before classes have even started,” said Samantha Allan, event co-lead, in the press release.
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